Weekly Torah portion
Parascha Vayakhel ויקהל
Exodus (Schemot) · Exodus 35:1-38:20
„And he assembled"
Summary
Moses assembles the entire community of Israel to reiterate the commandment of observing the Shabbat, emphasizing that no work, including the kindling of fire, should be performed on the seventh day.
The people are invited to contribute materials such as gold, silver, and dyed wool for the construction of the Tabernacle (Mishkan), showing extraordinary generosity and heart-felt willingness.
Under the guidance of skilled artisans, the complex task of crafting the vessels and the structure itself begins, transforming raw gifts into a sanctuary for the Divine presence.
People
Moses
The leader who gathered the nation to transmit G"d's instructions regarding the Shabbat and the construction.
Bezalel
The chief artisan from the tribe of Judah who was filled with divine wisdom to design the Tabernacle.
Oholiab
A skilled craftsman from the tribe of Dan who assisted Bezalel in the sacred creative work.
The Wise-Hearted
The men and women who used their artistic talents to spin, weave, and build the components of the sanctuary.
Key commandments (mitzvot)
Resting on Shabbat · Exodus 35:2-3
The prohibition against performing creative work on the seventh day, specifically highlighting the prohibition of lighting a fire.
Full text
Quiz & badge
Answer every question correctly to earn the badge.
1. What is the very first instruction Moses gives in this portion before discussing the Tabernacle?
2. Which tribe was Bezalel, the chief architect, from?
3. How did the Israelites respond to the request for Tabernacle donations?
4. Which specific action is explicitly forbidden on Shabbat in this portion?