|
As we look back on the totality of the book of Shemot, it might seem strange to see all the different topics covered in this Sefer.
From the descent into slavery to the plagues to the splitting of the sea and the Ten Commandments, we follow the exciting narrative of Bnei Yisrael becoming a nation.
And then, halfway through the book, the narrative stops and, with the exception of the golden calf episode, we are plunged into several chapters of laws and details about the Mishkan.
What is the connection? And why are the laws of the Mishkan even in Shemot? Might they belong in Vayikra which is wholly dedicated to the service of the Mishkan?
Almost 1,000 years ago, the Ramban addressed these same questions. He explains that leaving Egypt gave us freedom from slavery, but did not give us a positive direction. When we finally received the Luchot, we were on our way to living a life of meaning and purpose. However, it was not until after the Mishkan was completed, when the clouds of glory descended to reveal Hashem’s presence, that we knew we had achieved the purpose of the exodus – attaining the level of our fore parents.
As we live through these dark disturbing times, may we work to create unity and light so that we too will merit to see Hashem’s revealed presence in the world speedily in our day.
Shabbat Shalom,
Morah Nechama Goldman
| 
