Weekly Inspiration: Insights from Parshat Vayakhel

Space Time Continuum

The concepts of space and time have long been central to religious thought and practice across various faiths. In many belief systems, sacred spaces such as temples, churches, or mosques serve as physical locations where the divine is believed to be more accessible. Similarly, sacred times like holy days or periods of worship are set apart for spiritual reflection and connection with the divine.

In Judaism, these concepts are particularly significant, as exemplified by the relationship between the Mishkan (a portable sanctuary) and Shabbat (the weekly day of rest). This connection offers insights into the interplay between sacred space and sacred time, which can be appreciated even from a secular or non-Jewish perspective.

The Torah portion (parsha) Vayakhel primarily focuses on the construction of the Mishkan, a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their desert wanderings. However, it begins with an seemingly out-of-place instruction about observing Shabbat, and then continues for three full chapters discussing the building of the Mishkan. Here are the first few verses:

“Moses assembled the whole Israelite community and said to them, ‘These are the things the Lord has commanded you to do: For six days, work is to be done, but the seventh day shall be your holy day, a day of sabbath rest to the Lord. Whoever does any work on it is to be put to death. Do not light a fire in any of your dwellings on the Sabbath day.’ (Exodus 35:1-5)

This juxtaposition raises an intriguing question: Why mention Shabbat in a section primarily devoted to the Mishkan’s construction? The answer lies in the profound relationship between sacred space and sacred time. By placing the Shabbat instruction before the details of the Mishkan’s construction, the text emphasizes the importance of sacred time over sacred space. This ordering suggests that while physical spaces of worship are significant, the sanctification of time takes precedence.

In a broader context, this principle reminds us that spiritual experiences are not confined to specific locations. Rather, they can occur at designated times, regardless of where we are. This concept is particularly relevant in our modern, mobile society, where people may not always have access to traditional places of worship.

Shabbat and the Mishkan (Tabernacle)

The text also illustrates how sacred time (Shabbat) and sacred space (Mishkan) complement each other. Shabbat occurs weekly, providing regular opportunities for spiritual reflection and rest. The Mishkan, on the other hand, offers a constant physical reminder of the divine presence.

This complementary relationship suggests that a balanced spiritual life might involve both temporal and spatial elements. While specific times can be set aside for reflection or meditation, having a dedicated space for these practices can also be beneficial.

Even for those who don’t adhere to any particular faith, the concepts illustrated here can be valuable. The idea of setting aside specific times for rest, reflection, or personal growth (akin to Shabbat) can be beneficial for mental and emotional well-being. Similarly, creating a physical space dedicated to relaxation or contemplation (like the Mishkan) can provide a tangible anchor for these practices.

The concept of sacred time and space extends beyond religious contexts and can be applied to various aspects of our lives. In the modern world, where the boundaries between work and personal life often blur, creating designated times and spaces for different activities can help maintain balance and well-being.

For instance, many people find it beneficial to establish a specific time each day for meditation, exercise, or creative pursuits. This regular practice, similar to the weekly observance of Shabbat, can provide structure and rhythm to one’s life, offering opportunities for rejuvenation and self-reflection.

Similarly, designating specific spaces for certain activities can enhance focus and productivity. A home office or study area can serve as a modern-day Mishkan – a space set apart for concentration and intellectual pursuits. By associating this space with work or study, one can more easily transition into a focused mindset when entering it.

The interplay between time and space is also evident in how we approach vacations and travel. The act of physically removing oneself from familiar surroundings (changing space) often coincides with taking time off from regular routines (changing time). This combination can lead to new perspectives and experiences, much like the spiritual renewal sought through religious observances.

The Sacred in the Digital Age

In the digital age, the concepts of sacred time and space take on new dimensions. With constant connectivity, it becomes increasingly important to create digital “Shabbats” – periods of time when we disconnect from our devices and focus on real-world interactions or personal reflection. Similarly, creating digital-free spaces in our homes can serve as modern sanctuaries from the constant flow of information and stimuli.

The principles derived from the Mishkan-Shabbat relationship can also be applied to personal growth and learning. Setting aside regular times for study or skill development (time) and creating an environment conducive to learning (space) can significantly enhance one’s ability to acquire new knowledge and abilities.

In the realm of personal health and wellness, the time-space interplay is evident in practices like yoga or mindfulness meditation. These disciplines often emphasize both the importance of regular practice (time) and the creation of a suitable environment for practice (space).

The concept of sacred time and space can even be applied to community building and social justice efforts. Regular community gatherings or activism events (time) coupled with dedicated community centers or gathering spaces (space) can foster stronger social bonds and more effective collective action.

Ultimately, the lessons drawn from the Mishkan-Shabbat relationship in the Torah portion Vayakhel offer a framework for understanding the importance of both time and space in our lives. By consciously designating both sacred times and spaces – whether for spiritual, personal, or communal purposes – we can create a more balanced, meaningful, and purposeful existence. This approach allows us to navigate the complexities of modern life while maintaining connection to ourselves, others, and the world around us.