Overview of Parasha Pekudei (Exodus 38:21–40:38)

Parasha Pekudei (“Accounts”) is the final portion of the Book of Shemot (Exodus) and serves as a detailed record of the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). It emphasizes the faithful execution of G-d’s instructions and concludes with the Divine Presence filling the completed Mishkan.

1. The Accounting of the Mishkan

The portion begins with an accounting of all the materials used in the construction of the Mishkan:

• Gold, silver, and bronze are meticulously measured.

• The silver was used for the foundation sockets of the Tabernacle.

• The bronze was used for the altar and its utensils.

Moshe ensures full transparency and integrity, demonstrating the importance of accountability in handling sacred contributions.

2. The Completion of the Priesthood Garments

The skilled artisans, led by Bezalel and Oholiab, complete the priestly garments for Aaron and his sons, including:

• The Ephod – Made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet threads with onyx stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel.

• The Breastplate – Adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the tribes.

• The Robe – Its hem was decorated with golden bells and pomegranates.

• The Turban and Crown – Engraved with the words "Holy to the L-rd."

3. Moshe’s Inspection and Blessing

Once all the work is completed, the artisans bring everything to Moshe, who examines it and finds that it was done exactly as G-d commanded. He blesses the people for their faithfulness.

4. The Assembly of the Mishkan

G-d instructs Moshe to erect the Mishkan on the first day of the first month (Nisan 1).

• Moshe sets up the Tabernacle and arranges all the furnishings.

• He anoints the Mishkan and the priests, consecrating them for service.

• Once everything is in place, the cloud of the Divine Presence descends upon the Mishkan.

5. The Cloud and Fire – G-d’s Presence Fills the Mishkan

The Torah concludes with a powerful moment:

• The glory of the L-rd fills the Mishkan so intensely that Moshe cannot enter.

• From that point forward, the Israelites are guided by the cloud:

  • If the cloud lifts, they journey forward.

  • If it remains, they stay encamped.

  • By day, the cloud rests over the Mishkan, and by night, fire is seen within it.

Conclusion

Parasha Pekudei marks the completion of the Mishkan and the fulfillment of G-d’s promise to dwell among His people. The Book of Exodus (Shemot) ends with a powerful image: the Divine Presence resting in the midst of Israel, leading them on their journey.

Haftarah (I Kings 8)

The Haftarah portion recounts the dedication of Solomon’s Temple. After completing all the work, Solomon brought in the treasures and offerings from his father, David. He then gathered the elders and tribal leaders to Jerusalem to bring the Ark of the Covenant into the Most Holy Place, beneath the wings of the cherubim.

As the priests exited the holy place, the cloud of the L-rd filled the Temple so intensely that they could not stand to minister. Overwhelmed, Solomon declared: “Now the L-rd has fulfilled His word, which He spoke… The L-rd has said that He would dwell in the thick cloud. I have surely built You a lofty house, a place for Your dwelling forever.”

Brit Chadashah (Matthew 17:1-8)

The Brit Chadashah portion describes the transfiguration of Yeshua before Peter, James, and John. As they watched, His face shone like the sun, and His clothing became dazzling white. Suddenly, Moshe and Elijah appeared and spoke with Him. Peter, in awe, offered to build three sukkot—one for Yeshua, one for Moshe, and one for Elijah.

At that moment, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice declared: “This is My Beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased; listen to Him.” Terrified, the disciples fell face down, but Yeshua touched them and said, “Get up, and do not be afraid.”

Reflections

The presence of G-d—whether in the Mishkan, the Temple, or on the mountain—elicits awe, humility, and reverence. His holiness exposes our weaknesses, yet His mercy brings restoration. Without Yeshua, we would remain in our iniquities, overcome by fear. But through Him, we are lifted up and welcomed into G-d’s presence.

L-rd, restore us today to holiness. Open Your heart to us, that we may dwell in Your presence on this Shabbat, this day of peace. Amein.