Parshas Pikudei marks the conclusion of the construction of the Mishkan, the portable sanctuary that accompanied Bnei Yisrael in the wilderness. The Torah provides a detailed account of all the materials used and emphasizes how everything was done precisely according to Hashem’s command. One might wonder: Why does the Torah expend so many verses meticulously listing the inventory? What lesson can we learn from this?

Rashi (Shemos 38:21) explains that Moshe Rabbeinu gave a full accounting of the donations to the Mishkan to ensure that no one would suspect him of misusing the funds. The midrash (Tanchuma, Pikudei 7) describes how Moshe initially forgot where a portion of silver had gone, only to be reminded that it was used for the silver sockets. This teaches us a powerful lesson about integrity in leadership. Even though Moshe was unquestionably righteous, he understood the importance of transparency and accountability.

The Gemara (Yoma 38a) states, “A person must be free of suspicion before people just as he is before Hashem.” A leader must not only be righteous but must also ensure that his actions are perceived as righteous. This idea is particularly relevant today, where public figures are often scrutinized. Moshe’s example teaches us that true greatness lies in being beyond reproach.

Chazal teaches that the Mishkan was not merely a place for divine service, but a physical manifestation of the unity of the Jewish people. Every individual had a part in it. The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 48:6) tells us that even the seemingly small contributions mattered. There is a beautiful anecdote about Reb Zusha of Anipoli, who once saw a poor man weeping because he had nothing to contribute. Reb Zusha comforted him by saying, “Even a heart full of love for Hashem is a worthy offering.”

This idea is echoed in the Talmud (Menachos 110a), which states, “Whether one brings much or little, the essential thing is that his heart is directed to heaven.” Hashem does not measure our service by quantity but by sincerity. Every Jew—regardless of status or ability—has something precious to offer in building Hashem’s presence in this world.

When the Mishkan was being constructed, all of Bnei Yisrael were bringing gold, silver and precious materials as donations. Among them was a poor widow who desperately wanted to contribute but had nothing valuable to offer. Determined to participate in this holy endeavor, she took a simple strand of flax and brought it as her donation. Some scoffed at her small offering, but Hashem valued her sincerity. Miraculously, her humble flax was used to weave the wicks for the golden Menorah, whose light illuminated the Mishkan! The midrash teaches that her contribution was just as important as the gold and silver, because it was given with a full heart.

The final verses of Pikudei describe the completion of the Mishkan and how Hashem’s presence filled it (Shemos 40:34-38). The Ramban (Shemos 25:2) famously explains that the Mishkan was meant to be a continuation of the revelation at Har Sinai—bringing the divine presence into the daily lives of the Jewish people.

The Talmud (Brachos 6a) teaches that even today—when the Beis Hamikdash no longer stands—Hashem dwells wherever Jews gather to study Torah and pray. Rabbi Chaim of Volozhin further explains that each person can become a “miniature Mishkan” by dedicating himself to Torah and mitzvos. Just as Bnei Yisrael built a physical sanctuary, we must strive to build a spiritual Mishkan within our hearts.

Parshas Pikudei reminds us that every action—no matter how small—contributes to the greater whole. Like Moshe, we must act with integrity. Like Bnei Yisrael, we must recognize the value of each contribution. And like the Mishkan, we must create a space for Hashem in our lives. When we do so, we truly bring His presence into the world.

May we merit to see the rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash, speedily in our days!

Rabbi Dr. Avi Kuperberg is a forensic, clinical psychologist and a member of the American Psychology-Law Society. He serves as the president of Congregation Torah Ohr in Boca Raton, Florida. He can be reached at Psychologist@Juno.Com.