We all know that Betzalel was chosen by Hashem to build the mishkan. The pasuk says in Parshas Vayakhel (35:30): “Re’uh kara Hashem b’shem Betzalel ben Uri ben Chur l’mateh Yehudah.” – “See, Hashem has called by name Betzalel, son of Uri, son of Chur, from the tribe of Yehudah.”
This raises an obvious question. Nowhere earlier does the Torah mention that Hashem commanded Moshe to appoint Betzalel to build the Mishkan. There was no direct instruction, no public announcement. So what does the pasuk mean by the word “Re’uh” - “See that Hashem has called Betzalel”? What exactly are we supposed to observe?
Rav Moshe Feinstein, in Darash Moshe, answers that Betzalel’s appointment didn’t require a formal command. His exceptional wisdom and talent made it obvious that he was the one meant for the task. Betzalel’s abilities were a clear sign that Hashem had chosen him.
Rav Moshe explains that this is a fundamental lesson in life. When Hashem grants a person unique abilities – whether wisdom, wealth, or other talents – it comes with a responsibility to use them for Hashem’s honor. Although a person has free will and can choose not to use their gifts, they will ultimately be held accountable for not fulfilling their potential. After 120 years, there will be a din v’cheshbon – a reckoning – where one will be asked: “Why didn’t you use the talents I gave you?”
In Betzalel’s case, his unique skills in craftsmanship and understanding the intricacies of the Mishkan made it clear that this was his calling. No big announcement was needed – his abilities spoke for themselves.
This concept is powerfully illustrated through the tragic story of Navos HaKarmeli, as brought in the Yalkut Shimoni. Navos lived in Yizrael, near the palace of Achav, the wicked king of Yisrael. For many years, Achav showed no interest in Navos’ vineyard. Suddenly, he desired it and asked Navos to sell it to him. When Navos refused, Achav’s wife Izevel orchestrated a plot where false witnesses testified that Navos had cursed Hashem and the king. As a result, Navos was executed, and Achav took possession of his vineyard.
Why did Navos deserve this? Navos had a beautiful voice and would lead tefillah in the Beis Hamikdash during shalosh regalim, bringing tremendous joy to the people. But one year, Navos chose not to go up to Yerushalayim. He was afraid that if he left his vineyard, someone might steal it, despite Hashem’s promise that no one would desire their property while they fulfilled the mitzvah of aliyah l’regel.
Because Navos withheld his talent and did not use his gift to honor Hashem, mida k’neged mida, Hashem allowed false witnesses to rise against him, leading to his tragic end. The very gift that he chose not to use became the source of his downfall.
The Ohr Gedaliah on Parshas Lech Lecha emphasizes a frightening truth: If Hashem gives a person talents and they don’t use them, those abilities are eventually taken away.
Avraham Avinu was willing to be thrown into the fiery furnace to sanctify Hashem’s name. Had he hesitated, says the Ohr Gedaliah, Hashem would have taken away that strength from him. Talents are like muscles; if they aren’t exercised, they weaken and disappear. The same applies to spiritual gifts. When a person neglects their talents – whether it’s a beautiful voice, a sharp mind, or wealth – those gifts eventually fade away.
This brings us back to Betzalel. His remarkable talent in craftsmanship and his deep understanding of the Mishkan’s requirements made it clear that he was divinely chosen for the task. There was no need for a public proclamation – his abilities were proof enough.
This is a lesson for all of us. When Hashem grants gifts – whether intellectual, financial, or otherwise – it’s a sign that these talents are to be used for Hashem’s glory. Ignoring or wasting them is not just a missed opportunity – it’s a failure to fulfill one’s mission in life.
May we all be blessed to recognize and utilize the gifts Hashem has given us, bringing honor and glory to His name.
