Ki Tisa – “When You Take” (Exodus 30:11–34:35)

This week’s Torah portion begins with G-d instructing Moshe to take a census of the sons of Israel. Each person counted is required to give a half-shekel as a ransom and atonement to the L-rd. The contribution is the same for all—neither the rich may give more nor the poor less.

We also see the construction of the brazen altar for washing hands, the preparation of the anointing oil—used to consecrate the Tabernacle, its contents, and Aaron and his sons—and the making of incense to be burned as a fragrant offering before the L-rd. Additionally, G-d appoints Bezalel and Oholiab to craft the Tabernacle and all its components.

A significant theme in this portion is the sanctity of Shabbat. G-d declares: “It is a sign between Me and the sons of Israel forever; for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, but on the seventh day He ceased from labor and was refreshed.”

The narrative then shifts to the sin of the golden calf. In Moshe’s absence, the people fashion an idol, provoking G-d’s wrath. He is ready to destroy them, but Moshe intercedes on their behalf. Upon descending from the mountain, Moshe sees the idolatry and commands the faithful to take up the sword against the guilty, leading to the fall of about 3,000 men.

Returning to the mountain, Moshe pleads with G-d to show him His glory. Though G-d has already assured him, “My presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest,” Moshe persists. G-d grants his request, covering him so that he may only see His back as He passes by, shielding him from beholding His face.

The portion concludes with G-d renewing the covenant and replacing the shattered tablets with new ones.

Haftarah (I Kings 18)

The Haftarah recounts Elijah’s dramatic confrontation with the prophets of Baal. Elijah challenges the people: “How long will you hesitate between two opinions?” To prove whose G-d is real, the prophets of Baal cry out for fire to consume their offering, but no response comes. Elijah then calls upon the living G-d, who answers with fire from heaven, consuming the offering. Witnessing this, the people fall on their faces and proclaim their allegiance to the one true G-d.

Brit Chadashah (Romans 10:13 – 11)

The Brit Chadashah portion begins with the declaration: “Whoever will call on the name of the L-rd will be saved.” In Romans 11, Paul asks, “G-d has not rejected His people, has He?” and emphatically responds, “May it never be!” He recalls the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal, reminding us that G-d preserved a remnant—7,000 men who did not bow to Baal.

Reflections

This week’s readings reveal G-d as both just and merciful. He is a jealous G-d who demands wholehearted worship, yet He is also forgiving, loving, and responsive. It is our responsibility to seek His face, to press in, and to strive for that mountaintop experience with Him. When we call upon His name, we are assured of His salvation. Amein.