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We should try to understand the difference between these two terms; mikdash and mishkan. The root of the former is "kadosh" – holy. The root of mishkan is shachen (dwell). As we have discussed in the past, holiness implies the presence of fear, distancing, and the attribute of judgment. It is related to the idea that Hashem is High above all high, to the extent that it is not even possible to understand His greatness. In contrast, the matter of the dwelling of the Divine Presence implies closeness and love, along the lines of one of the most important ideas which the masters of Kabbala discussed: "There is no place that is bereft of His Presence."
It is wrong to relate to only one of the aforementioned approaches to Hashem. If we think just in terms of fear of Hashem, we are liable to develop a cold philosophical approach that leaves no emotion in the relationship. The Baal Shem Tov was very sensitive to this concern, and he trained the followers of Chassidut to put the stress on Hashem’s ongoing Presence. They put more emphasis on "I will dwell among them" than on "They will make for Me a Sanctuary." The Vilna Gaon was concerned that such an approach would cause an over-familiarity that would allow for searching for closeness to Hashem even in unseemly settings. He explained the Glory of Hashem as less related to a Divine Dwelling and more of an expression of Divine Providence. The Gaon’s disciple, Rav Chayim of Volozhin did draw closer to the Chassidic approach (see Torah Shleima, vol. VIII, pp. 248-251).
Let us return to take a look at what changed when Shlomo erected the Temple. The dwelling of Hashem’s Presence was obvious in the Mishkan, and while the place was holy, the site of the Mishkan did not retain its sanctity after the Mishkan was removed from the place. The movable hides were a reminder that the sanctity was always capable of being transferred from here to there or of disappearing if the people sinned.
With the building of the Mikdash, Shlomo sent a double message. The Temple Mount would maintain an eternal status of holiness, with halachic ramifications. The Divine Presence would always dwell there even if and when the structure would not be there. To a certain extent, Bnei Yisrael understood too well – the sanctity would always remain no matter how improperly we behaved. May we regain the wisdom to be worthy to see with our eyes the return of the palpable spirit to the holy places, for which we are waiting.
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: The Goal of an Agricultural Yeshiva – part I
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
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Shoftim TESHUVA IN COURT OF LAW?
Parshat Shoftim-Chodesh Elul
Why does parshat Shoftim always come out during Elul? This innovative and central explanation is an eye-opener regarding many aspects of Judaism.
The Month of Elul TESHUVA IS THE ANSWER
The month of Elul serves as a vital time for self-reflection and personal accountability to prepare for true repentance.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Realtor’s Fee on Large Commercial Building – part I
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: The Goal of an Agricultural Yeshiva – part I
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
Re'e NEVER EXTREME EXCEPT ISRAEL
Parshat Re'eh
Judaism is against extremism, so how can we understand the seemingly extreme statements found in our sages in favor of living in the Land of Israel and against living in Chutz laAretz? The article deals with the seeming contradiction between the strength of Free-Will and the strength of being influenced by our surroundings.
Ekev DANCE FOR ISRAEL- FOR YOUR BENEFIT
Parshat Eikev
Description: The 7 Haftarot we read after Tisha B'Av ("Shiva D'Nichemta") surely get us excited that they're coming TRUE, and awaken us to yearn, dance & join the return to Zion! The short article also deals with the problems and solutions facing the American Jewish community as discussed at a recent panel, as well as the question why Jews come from America to Israel to help when we face problems, but Israelis don't come to aid Jews in America when they face anti-Semitism.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Complaints about Contractor’s Work – part II
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: Twin Foundations
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 690
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 690
D'varim Judaism’s Social Vision
Re’eh
Giving is more than an act of generosity—it is an essential part of human dignity that belongs to everyone, rich and poor alike. The ultimate goal of help is to empower others to stand on their own.
