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Why did the Jewish people respond to the command to build the Mishkan with "Shema Yisrael"? The shiur develops the idea that Shema Yisrael contains two commitments: first, preserving the legacy of our parents ("Listen, Israel/Yaakov"), and second, affirming the truth of God's unity. This dual commitment gives us strength to survive crises and maintain continuity across generations.
Rabbi Zweig explores a puzzling Midrash: when Hashem (ה׳) commanded the Jewish people to bring gifts for the Mishkan, they responded by saying "Shema Yisrael, Hashem Elokeinu, Hashem Echad." What is the connection between building the Mishkan and reciting Shema? The shiur develops a fundamental understanding of what Shema Yisrael means. The Gemara (גמרא) in Pesachim records that Yaakov Avinu, near the end of his life, asked his children whether they believed in the unity of God. They responded in unison: "Shema Yisrael, Hashem Elokeinu, Hashem Echad," and Yaakov answered, "Baruch shem kevod malchuso le'olam va'ed." Rabbi Zweig asks: why did they need to say "Shema Yisrael" (listen, Israel)? If Yaakov asked a question, they should simply have answered "Hashem Echad" - He is One. Why preface it with "Listen, Israel/Yaakov"?
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Parshas Terumah
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