The Mishkan as a Replica of Har Sinai
Parashat Terumah describes the building of the Mishkan — the first structure through which HaKadosh Baruch Hu would dwell among Bnei Yisrael. After the acceptance of the Torah at Har Sinai — with fire, revelation, and the intense bond between Hashem and the people — it was fitting that there be a place where that Presence could continue.
The Ramban reveals a deeper dimension: the Mishkan was a replication of the Sinai experience. Just as there was fire and the revelation of the Divine Voice at Har Sinai, so too in the Mishkan the Voice of Hashem would emanate from above the Aron, from between the Keruvim. The relationship forged at Sinai was not meant to fade; it was to become an ongoing reality.
From Gifted Inspiration to Human Construction
At Har Sinai, the revelation was a gift from Above — a moment of overwhelming clarity granted by Hashem. With the Mishkan, however, Bnei Yisrael were commanded to build a dwelling place for the Shechinah with their own hands. The initial inspiration was given; the continuation required human effort.
This reflects a fundamental principle in avodat Hashem. There are moments when a person experiences powerful inspiration. But the task is to build from that moment — to create structure and consistency so that the energy does not dissipate. Inspiration without construction remains temporary; construction turns it into permanence.
“Ve’shachanti Betocham” — Within Them
The Torah states: “Ve’asu Li Mikdash ve’shachanti betocham” — “They shall make for Me a Mikdash and I will dwell among them.” It does not say “within it,” but “within them.” The true dwelling place of the Shechinah is within each individual.
Just as the Mishkan preserved the experience of Sinai, every person is called to build an inner Mikdash — an internal space prepared for the Presence of Hashem. Daily life, with its routines and challenges, becomes the arena in which the fire of Sinai is sustained. Through conscious effort, the energy of Har Sinai becomes a living force within us.