The twenty-third reading from the Torah and last reading from the book of Exodus is called Pekudei, which means “accounts.” The last reading from Exodus begins with an audit of how the contributions for the Tabernacle were used. The portion goes on to describe the completion of the Tabernacle and its assembly and concludes by depicting the glory of the LORD entering it. This short portion (the last of the Book of Exodus) is read with parashat Vayakhel during non-leap years (i.e., in years when there is no additional month of Adar inserted into the calendar).
Moses first made an accounting of (פְּקוּדֵי) the materials that were donated for the construction of the Mishkan (i.e., Tabernacle). Betzalel and Oholiav then made the Priestly garments: the ephod (apron), choshen (breastplate), ketonic (cloak), crown, hat, tunic, sash and breeches, all according to the specifications given to Moses on the mount (and also given in Parashat Tetzaveh). This portion begins:
All of the components of the Mishkan are brought to Moses, who then erects it and anoints it with the holy anointing oil. Aaron and his four sons are initiated into the priesthood. The parashah concludes with the cloud of glory appearing over the Mishkan, signifying that the LORD's Presence has come to dwell within it.
Why is the Tabernacle called the Mishkan? The word mishkan comes from the Hebrew word lishkon, meaning to rest, and was considered to be the resting place of the Shechinah (presence of the LORD). The mishkan is also called mishkan ha'eidut - the mishkan of testimony - since it testified of God's forgiveness of the Jewish people for their idolatry with the egel maseikhah (Golden Calf).
The corresponding Haftarah portion shows King Solomon acting in the role of Moses as the Temple is completed. At the conclusion of the work of the Temple, Solomon gathers the elders of Israel for the ceremony of restoring the Holy Ark to its rightful place in the Holy of Holies in the Temple.
The Brit Chadashah reading reminds believers in the Mashiach Yeshua that they are part of His spiritual Temple, made without human hands, and fit for the glory of the LORD
| All Portions this week (LINK) | ||
| Torah | Haftarah | B'rit Chadashah |
|---|---|---|
| Exodus 38:21-40:38 | 1 Kings 7:51–8:21, 40-50 | Hebrews 8:1–12 |
| COMMENTARY | ||
| Fruits of Torah | Torah Resource | Hebrews for Christians |
| Ardelle -ver1 | Tim Hegg -part1 | Torah Table Talk |
| Ardelle -ver2 | Tim Hegg -part2 | Beginning and End... |
| AUDIO COMMENTARY (Nehemia's Wall) | ||
| Portion | Torah Pearls | Prophet Pearls |
| Pekudei |