Parashat Terumah contains the instructions for the building of the Tabernacle in the wilderness–the structure that would serve as a place of worship for the Israelites in their wanderings.
Rather than narrative–which is what we are used to up to this point–the Torah portion reads like an IKEA instruction manual. It is quite specific and we don’t really know if there is any spiritual significance behind the various specifications.
What is apparent is that the work needed in order to complete the Tabernacle and its furnishings required a fair amount of expertise in various fields: construction, woodworking, creating fabrics, treating leather, etc. Midrashim have pointed out that the many tasks needed to bring the Tabernacle into existence meant that there was something for everyone to do, and that each individual could contribute in an area where they had competence.
This is a prime example of teamwork. Not everyone can be a quarterback or a pitcher, but everyone working together can reach the goal. This is no less true today in our Jewish community and in society. Each of us brings our own special interests, skills and experiences. None of us is a Jack-of-all-trades. Together, however, we can build something beautiful in which not only will we feel pride and comfort, but where God will feel welcome as well.
Kosher Fitness 