Man Thinks. And G-d... Smiles?

By Y.Y. Hodakov

Do you have any great ideas that haven’t yet materialized? Do you ever experience genuine inspiration that doesn’t seem to evolve into something more tangible? Do you ever wonder if sometimes it’s just best to stop dreaming?...

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There were five frogs sitting on a log. Three decided to jump into the river. How many frogs were left on the log?

Five.

Just because three decided to jump, doesn't mean they did…

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Someone once approached the 6th Chabad Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn (1880-1950) of blessed memory, with an idea for a project. The Rebbe responded by quoting from Mishlei (Proverbs, 19:21), "There are many thoughts in a man's heart, but G-d's plan, that shall stand".

The Rebbe explained: At times we may have a good idea, but its time has not yet arrived. However, if it is G-d’s plan, this idea will materialize. Eventually, it shall stand. It will come to be.

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In this week's Torah portion, Vayakhel, we learn about the Mishkan (Sanctuary) that was built in the desert. In measured detail, we learn of its structure, furnishings, and coverings.

We already learned all of this information, as G-d, atop Mount Sinai, instructs Moshe of the plans. Now, however, we learn of Moshe transmitting all this information to the Jewish people, and – subsequent to what was, arguably, the most successful appeal in Jewish history – the Mishkan actually being built.

Why all the extra ink? Could the Torah not simply have stated that Moshe transmitted G-d’s instruction to the Jewish people, and that they built the Mishkan according to His instruction?

One answer is that we are being taught the importance of actually getting things done, in real time. It was not sufficient for an abstract, spiritual Mishkan to be created in a realm where Moshe alone talks to G-d in heaven. A concrete sanctuary for G-d must be made by everyday people, here on earth.

Perhaps, however, there is another answer as well. Perhaps we are being taught that if our intention is pure, if we devote our minds and hearts – indeed, our very selves – to do G-d's work, we will, eventually, succeed in making it happen.

The Torah is not only telling us how important it is to make it happen. The Torah is also teaching us that if we truly want to, we will succeed in making it happen.

Shabbat Shalom. And, if you "Like" it, "Share" it!