MESILOT
Pathways to the Soul
Illuminating teachings and insights on the weekly Parsha of Rabbi Yoram Michael Abargel Zt”l
From the weekly lessons of his son Rabbi Yisrael Abargel Shlita
Terumah | The Soul’s Composition - Source for Constant Struggle
Dedicated to the hatzlacha of: Charlene Vener in memory of Edward Yitzhak Alter Zalking, Shirley Sarah Leah Warner and Philip (Fivel) Warner
In this week’s Parsha, Terumah, we learn about the construction of the Mishkan, the Tabernacle, which was the dwelling place of the Divine Presence among the Jewish people in the desert. The Mishkan was built from various materials donated by the people, each one contributing according to their ability and desire. The Torah describes in detail the different components and vessels of the Mishkan, such as the Aron (Ark), the Menorah, the Shulchan (Table), and the Mizbeach (Altar).
Our Sages teach that the Mishkan is a reflection of the human soul. Just as the Mishkan was composed of many different elements, so too is the soul made up of various aspects and qualities. The construction of the Mishkan represents the process of building and refining our own inner sanctuary, making ourselves a fitting vessel for the Divine Presence.
However, the soul’s composition is also the source of constant struggle. Within each person, there are conflicting desires and inclinations—the yetzer tov (good inclination) and the yetzer hara (evil inclination). The soul is pulled in different directions, and it is our task to harmonize these forces and direct them towards serving Hashem.
The Inner Sanctuary
The Aron, which contained the Luchot (Tablets), was placed in the Kodesh HaKodashim (Holy of Holies), the innermost chamber of the Mishkan. This represents the innermost part of the soul, the pure spark of divinity that is untouched by sin or impurity. Surrounding the Aron were layers of curtains and coverings, symbolizing the various layers of the soul and the challenges we face in accessing our true essence.
The Menorah, with its seven branches, represents the different faculties of the soul—wisdom, understanding, knowledge, kindness, strength, beauty, and sovereignty. Each branch must be kindled and illuminated, bringing light to the entire person.
The Constant Struggle
Building the Mishkan was not a one-time event; it required ongoing maintenance and dedication. Similarly, the work of refining the soul is a lifelong process. We are constantly faced with tests and challenges that force us to confront our weaknesses and strive for growth.
The yetzer hara is not an external enemy, but an integral part of our being. Its purpose is to provide us with opportunities for struggle and growth. Without resistance, there can be no progress. The struggle itself is what gives meaning to our service of Hashem.
Transforming the Physical
The materials used in the Mishkan—gold, silver, copper, wood, wool, and linen—represent the various aspects of the physical world. By dedicating these materials to the service of Hashem, the Jewish people elevated the mundane and transformed it into something holy. This teaches us that our mission is not to reject the physical, but to sanctify it and use it as a means of serving Hashem.
Every action we take, every word we speak, and every thought we think can be directed towards holiness. By aligning our will with the will of Hashem, we create a dwelling place for the Divine within ourselves and in the world around us.
Conclusion
The Parsha of Terumah teaches us that the soul is a complex and multifaceted entity, constantly engaged in a struggle between opposing forces. Our task is to build and maintain our inner Mishkan, harmonizing the different aspects of our being and dedicating ourselves to the service of Hashem. Through this ongoing process, we become vessels for the Divine Presence and fulfill our purpose in this world.
