Ki Tisa (Exodus 30:11−34:35)

Parsha Ki Tisa Torah Summary:

Moses takes a census of the Israelites and collects a half-shekel from each person (30:11-16) God tells Moses to construct a water basin and to prepare anointing oil and incense for the ordination of the priests. Bezalel and Oholiab, skilled artisans, are assigned to make objects for the priests and the Tabernacle. (30:17-31:11) The Israelites are instructed to keep Shabbat as a sign of their covenant with God. God gives Moses the two tablets of the Pact. (31:12-18) The Israelites ask Aaron to build them a Golden Calf. Moses implores God not to destroy the people and then breaks the two tablets of the Pact on which the Ten Commandments are written when he sees the idol. God punishes the Israelites by means of a plague. (32:1-35) Moses goes up the mountain with a blank set of tablets for another 40 days so that God will again inscribe the Ten Commandments. Other laws, including the edict to observe the Pilgrimage Festivals, are also revealed. (34:1-28) Moses comes down from the mountain with a radiant face. (34:29-35) “I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion” Adonai reveals to Moses one of the greats ideals of all times, the idea of Teshuvah (repentance), we give people a second chance. We can start fresh and a new when ever we want and need too, Adonai will always be there to forgive us! Adonai is full of compassion and mercy! That should be a model for us, to allow people to have a second chance, to repent, try and be compassionate and show mercy, to those who have wronged us and repented.