Shabbat Vayakhel/Shekalim 5782
In addition to continuing the regular sequence of Torah portions, this week sees the beginning of the four special readings in the weeks leading up to Pesah. After reading Parshat Vayakhel, which tells of the fulfilment of many of the recently given instructions to build the mishkan, we turn to Maftir Shekalim, where we find the poll tax. That passage should be familiar, as we just read it last Shabbat at the beginning of Ki Tissa. Our Wednesday morning Talmud class, studying Megillah, learned how this can happen. While we read of the exacting obedience of the mishkan’s artisans and construction crew, we’re also reminded of every Israelite’s role in contributing to the upkeep of the sanctuary.
My goal in offering the weekly musical scavenger hunt is to entice people to read the Torah portion carefully, as well as to have some fun with music. Even if you don’t care for the video clips, it’s worthwhile to read the parshah anyway. For those who want to play along, why did I think of these songs?
Answers will be revealed after Shabbat minhah, which begins this week at 5:20 PM. Remember that we are no longer having early minhah.
Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom and happy listening,
Rabbi David Wise
Candle lighting: 5:23 PM
Torah Reading: Exodus 35:1-38:20
Maftir: Exodus 30:11-16
Haftarah: II Kings 12:1-17
