The Torah continues this week with the command to make for use in the Mishkan, the Portable Sanctuary — oil for the Menorah and clothes for the Cohanim, the Priests. It then gives instruction for the consecration of the Cohanim and the Outer Altar. The portion concludes with instructions for constructing the Incense Altar.
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Dvar Torah
based on Growth Through Torah by Rabbi Zelig Pliskin
The Torah states:
“Make a forehead plate of pure gold, and engrave on it in the same manner as a signet ring, (the words), ‘Holy to God’. Attach a twist of sky-blue wool to it, so that it can be (worn) right near the front of the turban” (Exodus 28:36-37).
Each of the garments of the Cohanim, the Priests who served in the Mishkan, had a spiritual correspondence and influence. The turban, which is on top of the head, atoned for arrogance and conceit. There is, however, a time for pride — when a person is proud to do the will of the Almighty. The Ksav Sofer, a great rabbi, commented that this is alluded to in our verse. When pride is “holy to the Almighty” then it can be on top of a person’s head.
Arrogance is a trait that is detrimental to one’s spiritual development and causes many difficulties when dealing with other people. However, when you are proud of fulfilling the Torah commandments, you will continue to do so even if others will mock or insult you.
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