Weekly Letter: The Woman’s Role in the Construction of The Mishkan
Learning this week about the construction of the mishkan – right after the receiving of the Torah, we share the Rebbe’s letter where he explains the woman’s role in the construction and the connection with her status as a Jewish woman.
By the Grace of G-d
25th of Shevat, 5746
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Mrs.
S.D., Ca. 92122
Blessing and Greeting:
Your letter reached me with some delay. As requested, I will again remember you and your husband in prayer for the fulfillment of your heart’s desires for the good.
There is surely no need to remind you that all blessings come from HaShem and the channel to receive them is through the everyday life and conduct in accordance with His Will. Therefore, every additional effort in matters of Torah and mitzvos, though a “must” for their own sake, widens these channels. And of course, there is always room for advancement in matters of goodness and holiness, Torah and mitzvos.
At this time, when we are beginning to read a series of sidras about the construction of the mishkan in the wilderness soon after Mattan Torah, I trust you know that the women had a particularly important share in the mishkan through their precious personal possessions (jewelry, brass mirrors, etc.) and in fact, brought their donations even before their husbands brought theirs. Thus they showed that they understood the importance of the Sanctuary, which was the visible and tangible symbol of G-d’s Presence in the midst of His people, in accordance with His desire and promise: “Make Me a sanctuary and I will dwell in your midst” – in the midst of and within, every Jewish heart and every Jewish home. Indeed, as Akeres Habayis – a Jewish housewife and mother is in large measure the foundation of the Jewish home and family.
Wishing you hatzlochoin all above,
With blessing,
P.S. Enclosed is a copy of my message to the recent Convention of Neshei u’Bnos Chabad which dwells on the above.
Since writing the above, your letter was received. The only thing to add to it is to suggest that you consult with knowledgeable friends in regard to the problems about which you, in accordance with the teaching of the Torah, “Help comes with the abundance of counsel.”
