P’kudei – פְקוּדֵי (Exodus 38:21-40:38)

Parsha P’kudei – פְקוּדֵי Torah Summary:

A statistical summary of the materials used for the Tabernacle and an account of producing the priestly vestments are recorded. Moses blesses the Israelites for the work they did. (38:21-39:42) Upon God’s instruction, Moses sets up the Mishkan and the priests are anointed and consecrated. (40:1-33) A description is given of a cloud that covers the Mishkan by day and a fire that burns by night, indicating God’s Presence therein. (40:33-38) P’kudei – פְקוּדֵי When the Children of Israel had completed all the work of the building of the Tabernacle, the Torah teaches us: “Moses saw all the work, and, behold, they had done it just as God had commanded, and Moses blessed them.” (Exodus 39:43) Rashi, the great biblical commentator has a question: How did Moses bless them? What words did he use? The Torah does not tell us, so Rashi fills in the blanks: “May it be God’s will that the Divine Presence rests on the work of your hands.” May this be our blessing always: May the work of our hands be blessed, may the work of our hands bring blessing. Amen.