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Terumah - What's The Gift ?


Terumah - What's The Gift ?

February 16 and 17, 2018

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The word, "Terumah" means "gift', "contribution", "offering" . 

This Torah portion continues to detail and share the story of the building of "The Tabernacle, or Temple", and it's ornamentation from the men and women! Women?  Yes, it explicitly states that the instructions that were utilized were intended for BOTH men and women!  This really stands out in indelible ink of sorts, as it is very clear that women were invited and actively open to participate in an inclusive manner, in what might be considered a very male dominated cult-like society!   The interpretation, "Let THEM make a sanctuary", "men AND women, all whose hearts moved them."  This really stands out beautifully, as THE women got to be participants and viewed with some equality, as well as some equity in society!

Is the actual "building" of the Temple the gift and it's decorations? Is it the ornamentation of the tapestry, the gold, and precious metals, etc. ? 

It's the coming together as a real community, and actually building up hand in hand, with a loving purpose and togetherness! It's not the building that makes a temple, but it's the people, "The Them" that makes a community, that is the real congregation.

So as we sit, or not in sanctuaries, small or large, stand alone building or in a center, in someone's home, in the park, up a mountain overlooking the valley, it is our true willingness, love, understanding, inclusiveness of men,women and children,and openness of togetherness that is our true gift!

Shabbat ShalomImage result for small red heart



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