Parshat Ki Tisa

Parshat Ki Tisa

(Shemot 30:11-34:35)

The people of Israel are told to each contribute exactly half a shekel of silver to the Sanctuary. Instructions are also given regarding the making of the Sanctuary's water-basin, anointing oil and incense. "Wise hearted" artisans Betzalel and Ahaliav are placed in charge of the Sanctuary's construction, and the people are once again commanded to keep the Shabbat.

 

When Moshe does not return when expected from Mount Sinai, the people make a Golden Calf and worship it. God proposes to destroy the errant nation, but Moshe intercedes on their behalf. Moshe descends from the mountain carrying the Tablets of the Testimony engraved with the Ten Commandments; seeing the people dancing about their idol, he breaks the Tablets, destroys the Golden Calf and has the primary culprits put to death. He then returns to God to say: "If You do not forgive them, blot me out from the book that You have written."

 

God forgives, but says that the effect of their sin will be felt for many generations. At first God proposes to send His angel along with them, but Moses insists that God Himself accompany His people to the Promised Land.

 

Moshe prepares a new set of tablets and once more ascends the mountain, where G-d reinscribes the covenant on these Second Tablets. On the mountain Moshe is also granted a vision of the divine Thirteen Attributes of Mercy. So radiant is Moshe face upon his return, that he must cover it with a veil, which he removes only to speak with God and to teach His laws to the people.

 

 

(Use with permission from Chabad.org)