Parshat Vayakhel and Pekudei are, as happens very often, read together this year. It is somewhat ironic then that the words seem to have diametrically opposed connotations. Vayakhel refers to assembling, coming together as a community, while Pekudei relates to the counting of each person, highlighting the significance of the individual.
HAKHEL ET HAEIDA
In Parshat Chukat, Moshe is instructed “Hakhel et ha’eidah,” to gather the people. Eidah typically has a derogatory connotation, as it did in connection with “Korach v’adato.” It is a gathering of individuals who do not necessarily have a deep connection. They may have a common goal, but they are not deeply connected. Perhaps that is why Hashem directed Moshe in Parshat Chukat to instill in the nation a more intimate connection as they were about to enter Eretz Yisrael. They were not a group of individuals with a mere common destination, but a nation with a common identity. When Moshe is commanded in our parsha to gather the people, the phrase “vayakhel et kol adat Bnei Yisrael” is used to highlight the deep connection that should be created among the nation as they learn hilchot Shabbat and begin to partake in the building of the Mishkan.
PEKUDEI
The word “pekudei” stems from the root “pekod,” which means to count. When individuals are counted, it portrays their self-worth. Chazal tell us that Hashem counts us to depict His love for us. Someone who adores riches constantly counts their assets. It highlights the value of each item.
HARMONIZE BOTH QUALITIES
What is more important: a team mentality where every individual belongs to a larger community, or is it more essential to stress the unique capabilities of each individual? The Lubavitcher Rebbe (Gutnick Chumash) suggests that the ideal is in fact to harmonize these two opposing qualities. Perhaps that is what the Torah is hinting at when we read these two parshiyot together. How are we to combine these two opposing qualities?
First, when it comes to tefillah, by davening in a minyan, in a group, our tefillot are better heard. Yet Pekudei represents the individual who should have the proper kavanah and who has the ability to insert personal requests and prayers.
Second, the way in which we view the world. On the one hand, Vayakhel directs us to minimize the details of existence by understanding that G-d is supreme, while Pekudei leads us to appreciate every little creation.
Third, Vayakhel teaches us that no matter how low a person may fall, he is always a part of a greater community. Pekudei reminds us that no matter the difficult challenges one may encounter, they retain their unique G-d-given talents and shlichut that no one else possesses.
May we be able to achieve the proper balance between Vayakhel and Pekudei. Being a part of the community without sacrificing the individuality of each member of the community. That requires each of us to work hard in order to maximize our personal potential and to recognize and encourage others to capitalize on their unique capabilities for the benefit of the kehillah.
