March 8, 2025 · ח' אדר תשפ״ה
Parashat Tetzaveh · פרשת תצוה
A PEEK AT THE PARSHA This week’s parsha, Parshat Tetzaveh, is all about the special mitzvot that Hashem gave to Bnei Yisrael while they were in the desert. Hashem tells Moshe to command the Jewish people to make pure olive oil to light the Menorah in the Mishkan. The Menorah must always be lit, showing Hashem’s presence and the light of Torah in our lives. Hashem then commands Moshe to appoint his brother, Aharon, as the Kohen Gadol (High Priest). Aharon and his sons are chosen to serve Hashem in the Mishkan. To help them do this special job, Hashem gives detailed instructions about their clothing. The Kohanim’s clothing is different from regular clothes because it shows their honor and holiness. The regular Kohanim wore 4 garments:
1. 2. 3. 4.
Avnet - A colorful sash around the waist Ketonet - a long white shirt Michnasayim - linen pants for modesty Mitznefet - a special hat
The Kohen Gadol wore those same four garments and an additional 4 for a total of 8 special garments: 5. The Choshen - a square piece with 12 gems, one for each of the 12 tribes of Israel 6. The Ephod - a special robe with gold, blue, purple, and red threads 7. The Me'il - a robe with bells and pomegranates on the bottom, making noise as the Kohen Gadol walked 8. The Tzitz - a golden band on the forehead with the words “Kodesh LaHashem” (holy to Hashem) These garments reminded the Kohanim to always serve Hashem with respect and dignity.
ONE BIG IDEA From the time of Moshe’s birth, Tetzaveh is the only parsha missing Moshe’s name. One reason is because when Hashem first appeared to Moshe at the burning bush, Moshe incorrectly declined to be the leader and recommended Aharon instead. Since Parshat Tetzaveh discusses the clothing of the Kohanim, this was the parsha chosen not to have Moshe’s name. Humility is a very important character trait, but it should never hold you back from doing even greater things.
Moshe brings Aharon and his sons to the Mishkan and prepares them with special korbanot (offerings) and anointing oil. Hashem teaches Moshe how to bring a Korban Tamid, a daily sacrifice brought every morning and afternoon, showing our constant connection to Hashem. Finally, Hashem describes the Gold Mizbeach (altar of incense). This small golden altar stood inside the Mishkan, where the Kohanim burned Ketoret (incense), a beautiful-smelling spice offering to Hashem.
TIMES - זמנים Candle-lighting: 5:35pm Havdalah: 6:31pm allah: 5:25pm