Terumah 5786 – Give & Take

This week’s Parsha discusses the building of the Mishkan and begins where every good Jewish project needs to start — fundraising.

The Torah uses rather peculiar language when giving the commandment: “take for Me a donation.” Surely it should say “give” a donation, not take?

The Ibn Ezra brings examples from various places in Tanach showing that the words “give” and “take” are sometimes used interchangeably.

The Netziv points out that the commandment was directed primarily at the leadership of the community, from Moshe downward, to organize the collections. They were commanded to encourage — and, when necessary, even compel — the masses to contribute what was needed for the Mishkan.

The Brisker Rav goes so far as to say that there was no obligation on the individual to donate at all. Rather, there was an obligation that the Mishkan be built, and it fell upon the community collectively to ensure that this goal was achieved. Whoever was inspired by the cause and chose to contribute did so as a personal merit.

Most tax systems are not so forgiving. Not only is each individual expected to pay their own liabilities, but — as many first-timers are surprised to learn — the responsibility for calculating that liability rests on them as well. Some people say that if the government wants their money, it should come and get it. Unfortunately, that’s not how things work. Citizens are legally obligated to report their income and pay their liabilities.

Additionally, there is often disappointment that the money is spent on things not quite as lofty as the Mishkan.

For any Mishkan related or other financial issues you require assistance with please reach out at [email protected]. Good Shabbos.