Is there a nation in the world that has a detailed map of that which is beyond matter? Does anyone other than the Jewish People have the audacity to claim that they have the exact formula through which all of substance materialized from higher spiritual forces? Only someone who can stand behind his words can make such a claim to fame and remain unchallenged throughout the centuries. This Parsha is one of the most amazing passages in our holy Torah, in which Hashem divulges to us all the secrets of creation.
To study how Wisdom finds an abode in a world of untruths, and how it shines out through the seven pillars of wisdom symbolized in the holy Candelabra, takes years and years of deep study. The first, essential step, however, is that it be hidden away, deep in the Holy of Holies, and only made manifest through the finest of oils. Our egocentricity, as usual, blinds us from being able to see that which is beyond us. Years of deep introspection and refinement of any taint of internal ugliness are required to begin perceiving these eternal truths. Similarly, understanding how sustenance comes down to the world onto the holy table of the showbread, and how it is distributed from the holy altar through the sacrifices, gives a human being the keys to plentitude. These keys, however, are the keys to the treasure house of the King of Kings. To whom does the King entrust such keys to? It is not surprising that throughout history the Sages of our nation were entrusted with supervising the treasures of mortal monarchs.
A patient was lying in coma. His mind registered minute movements, his heart pumped steadily and his breathing was stable. Not exactly the symbol of life, but alive nonetheless. The Jewish People in their present state without the Sanctuary is in a similar mode of being. The tremendous wisdom hidden deep within the halls of study is not heard; the small unselfish acts of warm kindness are not publicized. Soon, very soon, however, the Nation will wake up and open its eyes. They will stand up on their feet and the life force latent within them will shine forth to all of Mankind.
Adapted from Rabbi Vali's book on Shemos. Questions and subscriptions can be mailed to: the Yeshiva