The Torah says V’yikchu Li Teruma, take from those that give on their own a donation for the building of the Mishkan. The Malbim points out that the Torah doesn’t say V’yitnu Li, an instruction to the individual to give. Hashem made donating to the Mishkon a Mitzvas Reshus, optional, versus a Mitzvah Chiyuvis, mandatory. The reason is to allow everyone who gives to do so B’leiv Sholeim, completely willingly. It’s more important to have a Mitzvah done less often but done with all of a person’s heart.
We find a similar message in next week’s Parsha. R’ Moshe writes that the reason the Mitzvah of Tzitzis is optional, unlike Tefillin, is that the message learned from wearing Tzitzis is more important than the actual wearing. For people to “think into a Mitzvah”, it must be done willingly. So Hashem made it optional so that it’s done with emotion. Here too, Hashem chose quality over quantity. The lesson is that, even the most important of Mitzvohs should be taught to our children and ourselves as things we do willingly, and shouldn’t be presented, at least initially, as being non-negotiable.
So, what is the Mitzvah of V’yikchu? Moshe Rabbeinu was instructed to set up a system to be easy for them to give. Moshe asked them, motivated them, then created the infrastructure to make the process easy.
This approach is different than many people think. They present Mitzvohs with a “this is how we do it” attitude. Instead, explain, remove obstacles, and, through personal behavior, make it the norm. It’s often better when a child, even an adult, does Mitzvohs fewer times but with gusto, than all the time and to be resentful. There is an art in creating infrastructure and making it inviting, so call me if you want to discuss this topic.
SHORT VORT, Rabbi Moshe Kormornick. Published by Adir Press. $9.99 in stores worldwide and online here
Whether you are looking for something meaningful on the Parsha, an uplifting thought for Yom Tov, or have been asked to speak at a Simcha – “Short Vort” is the book for you! With over 140 incredible short vorts packed with stories and valuable life messages, you will never be lost for something inspiring to say.
Rabbi Moshe Kormornick is a popular writer whose words are enjoyed by thousands of readers every week.
