The Torah portion Vayakhel - Pekudei (Exodus 35:1 - 40:38) concludes the Book of Exodus and focuses on the community of Israelites coming together to build the Tabernacle. In Vayakhel, Moses gathers the people and first reminds them of the importance of observing Shabbat. He then conveys God’s instructions to construct the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings. The Israelites respond with remarkable generosity, bringing abundant donations of gold, silver, fabrics, skins, and other materials. Skilled artisans, led by Bezalel and Oholiab, craft the Ark, the menorah, the altar, the priestly garments, and all the other elements needed for the sanctuary. The people give so much that Moses eventually has to tell them to stop bringing offerings.

In Pekudei, the Torah provides an accounting of the materials used in building the Tabernacle and describes the completion of all its components. The priestly garments for Aaron and his sons are prepared, including the ephod and breastplate. Once everything is finished exactly as commanded, Moses inspects the work and blesses the people. The Tabernacle is then assembled, and the divine presence rests upon it: a cloud covers the structure by day and a fire appears by night, signifying that God’s presence now dwells among the Israelites and guiding them on their journeys through the wilderness. This final image marks the fulfillment of the goal of Exodus that God would dwell among the people and accompany them as they continue their journey toward the Promised Land.