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Why does the Torah (תורה) use plural language for building the Aron while other Temple vessels use singular? The Ramban (רמב"ן)'s third interpretation requires that everyone have proper kavana because the Aron represents relationship with Hashem (ה׳), not utility. All Temple vessels provide benefits, but focusing on those benefits rather than the underlying relationship misses the entire point.
This shiur explores a grammatical anomaly in Parshas Terumah where the Torah (תורה) uses plural language ("asu") for constructing the Aron, while all other vessels use singular language. The Ramban (רמב"ן) offers three interpretations: everyone should donate gold, everyone should help Betzalel physically, or everyone should have proper kavana (intention). The speaker focuses on the third interpretation, examining what "mechaven" means in this context. The Ramban distinguishes between the Mishkan vessels and the Aron itself. While vessels like the menorah and shulchan are means to perform specific services, the Aron and Mishkan building represent the mitzvah (מצוה) of creating a dwelling place for the Shechinah. This is not utilitarian but relational - establishing Hashem (ה׳)'s presence among the Jewish people.
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Parshas Terumah
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