It was time to build! Betzalel and Ahaliav were in charge and did much of the work, but other talented men and women helped, too – with everything expertly managed by Betzalel and Ahaliav. They cut wood, worked with gold and silver, and spun wool, to make the holy objects for the Mishkan. Everyone who worked for the Mishkan was granted special wisdom, so that the Mishkan and everything in it would be exactly right.
Betzalel took extra-special care in the building of the Aron, since it was the holiest object of all. He made sure it was absolutely perfect! In fact, it was so well made that it was never destroyed. Betzalel’s Aron was used in the first Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple), then hidden under the ground beneath it for about 50 years, until the Beit HaMikdash was destroyed... and it has remained hidden ever since. It is said that Betzalel’s Aron will be returned to us so that we can use it in the third and final Beit HaMikdash!
The people worked with great energy and enthusiasm, until finally, the parts of the Mishkan and all of its beautiful furnishings were ready!
Next, it will be Moshe’s job to complete the building of the Mishkan by putting all of the parts together... which will take a bit of a miracle...
