This weeks parsha opens with Moshe gathering Beni Yisrael to tell them about the Mishkan and ask for their contributions. This begs the question: Why were the Israelites asked to donate to the mishkan rather than required to give an obligatory tax or simply receiving the materials from God. The answer to this question can shed light on what it means to be a part of a community and our responsibility as individuals towards the greater world. Moshe wanted the people to feel connected to the mishkan, he wanted them to feel proud of it, and to feel like they played a significant role in its construction. Thus, he gave them the opportunity to chose to contribute out of their own volition. Had they been required to donate, it would not have been special. Just as when we are required to pay taxes we are often reluctant and resentful but when we consciously choose to contribute to our community we feel fulfilled and inspired.

Community involvement is not something that can be forced, it must come from the true desire of the individual in order to be successful. In order to strengthen our communities we must empower individuals and create opportunities for leadership and contribution. Just like the Israelites stepped up and gave whatever they could to the construction of the Mishkan so to we must all take it upon ourselves to participate to our fullest potential within our own communities.

Shabbat Shalom,

Shoshana Edelman