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Why did Hashem (ה׳) command building the Mishkan, and why ask for donations before explaining the project? The shiur explores the Rambam (רמב"ם)-Ramban (רמב"ן) machloket about whether the Mishkan's purpose is creating a place for avodah versus establishing Hashem's dwelling. This reveals that the Mishkan addresses the dangerous possibility that complete immersion in Torah (תורה) could lead to feeling independent from Hashem rather than closer to Him.
This shiur provides a comprehensive examination of Parashas Terumah, focusing on the fundamental question of why Hashem (ה׳) commanded the building of a Mishkan. The speaker begins by analyzing the textual difficulties in the opening verses, including the unusual language of "mei-eis kol ish" and the apparent reversal of priorities - asking for donations before explaining the project's purpose. The discussion delves into a fundamental machloket between the Rambam (רמב"ם) and Ramban (רמב"ן) regarding the essence of building a Beis Hamikdash. According to the Rambam, the mitzvah (מצוה) is to create a place for avodah (divine service), which explains why he includes all the service vessels (menorah, shulchan, mizbeach) but excludes the Aron and kapores, which don't perform active service. The Ramban disagrees, arguing that the mitzvah is specifically to create a dwelling place for Hashem's presence (Hashraas HaShechinah), making the Aron and kapores central since they facilitate divine communication.
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Parshas Terumah, Shemos 25:1-8
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