Parashat Pekudei

Years ago, when the book “All I really need to know I learned in Kindergarten” by Robert Fulgham came out, people were entranced by it. The lessons seem so simple, yet they resonated. I find myself reflecting on this book as I find similar lessons in this week’s Torah Portion, Pekudei. While there are many more lessons in the portion, three stand out: Get yourself a friend, put some skin in the game, and sometimes you need a little bling. 

Get yourself a talented friend – we read of Bezalel, the skilled artisan who is responsible for building the Tabernacle. There’s someone else listed in this Torah portion that we don’t often speak about, his name was Oholiab. And he was a carver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple and crimson (Exodus 38:23). Bezalel couldn’t do it all himself, and moreover, probably wouldn’t have been as good. Surround yourself with good people, rely on them to do their thing, and give them the space to shine. Pirkei Avot, the wise maxims quoted from the Rabbis of the Mishnah teaches: Make for yourself a teacher and acquire for yourself a friend (1:6). 

Know where all that silver and gold needed to adorn the Tabernacle came from? The community. A half-shekel a head for each one who was entered in the records (Ex 38:26). The Israelites need skin in the game when it comes to making all the decorations. It allowed them to be invested, to be committed, and to feel as though they played a part in the success. Habitat for Humanity does something similar, called sweat equity. When a potential homeowner is granted a home to be built by volunteers, they must put in at least 200 hours of sweat equity, with at least 75 hours being on their own home. Your home becomes that much more special when you are there hanging drywall and laying tile. 

Sometimes you need a little bling. This portion is filled with bling. The ephod, breast piece, robe was all decked out. Gold, silver, pomegranates, lazuli and other precious stones are all mentioned to describe the elaborate vestments (Ex 39:2, ff). It’s true, we don’t need nice things to communicate with God and live in our world. However, sometimes, when you put on an outfit that makes you feel special, or a sentimental piece of jewelry, it changes your whole demeanor. Clothing can give one confidence, set the tone for an interview or job, and help us carry ourselves with a little more poise.  

Who is your trusted sidekick that challenges, supports and helps you make things better? 

What other life lessons can you add to this list? 

What’s your ‘fit that makes you feel special when you put it on? 

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