Parashat Tetzaveh
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Synopsis
Parashat Tetsaveh carries on from last weeks parashat Terumah. It talks about the creation of a constantly burning light “ner tamid.” It also talks about the the appointment of Aaron and his sons as priests to manage sacrifices in the “sanctuary” It goes on to talk about detailed instructions for Aarons clothing and a description of the building of an altar for burning incense before the ark.
Themes
The two main themes of this weeks parasha are a beautiful example of symbols that highlight the relationship in Judaism between the spirit and the specific.
1) The Meaning of the Ner Tamid "ever lasting light"
2) The Significance of Aarons Priestly Attire
The Meaning of the Ner Tamid "ever lasting light"
The Ner Tamid or ever lasting light can be found on the eastern wall of every synagogue in the world and is one of the most powerful symbols in Judaism. For many it symbolises the presence of God as an omnipresent being but it also symbolises the spirit of Judaism as well as being an ever present symbol of Zionism. Understanding the Ner Tamind as a symbol of the spirit of Judaism is best understood when analysing the phrase “Light unto the nations.” It emphasises the role of Jews as those striving to be a moral example for all mankind. Never has this been better expressed than with Zionism. The Ner Tamid sits on the eastern wall of synagogues as a torch guiding the way to Israel. Today for those who don’t go to synagogue the Ner Tamid sits inside our hearts. It calls to Jews to build Israel as an example of how a society should be. It’s a beautiful message and something that really makes feel proud to be Jewish.
The Significance of Aarons Priestly Attire
In the parasha it is written in great detail exactly how Aaron as the kohen gadol “high priest” should dress. Why is that important? Ultimately I don’t think it is but as a uniform it’s a symbol of a role. Turn to Habo and our chultzot “movement shirts”. Does the chultzah make us better people, of course not but it does symbolize the roots of our movement and the spirit that continues with it. Does it change who we are if we wear our chultzah? Maybe not but it turns us into madrichim in the eyes of our chanichim. It’s like wearing a magen dovid. It says I am Habonim Dror.
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