Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Exodus 31:4 mean when it talks about working in gold, silver, and brass?
A: This verse refers to the special skills given by Hashem to Betzalel, the chief artisan of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). According to Rashi, it highlights the divine inspiration behind the craftsmanship needed to create the holy vessels and structures for serving Hashem. The materials mentioned—gold, silver, and brass—were primary materials used in building the Mishkan.
Q: Why is the ability to work with gold, silver, and brass important in the Torah?
A: The Rambam explains that these skills were essential for fulfilling the mitzvah of building the Mishkan (Exodus 25:8). Gold, silver, and brass were used for sacred items like the Ark, Menorah, and altar. The Torah emphasizes that these skills come from Hashem, showing that even physical craftsmanship can be elevated for holy purposes when used in Avodas Hashem (service of G-d).
Q: What can we learn from Exodus 31:4 about using our talents?
A: The Midrash teaches that just as Betzalel used his artistic talents for the Mishkan, we should use our own abilities to serve Hashem. The verse shows that every skill—even working with physical materials—can be sanctified when used for a higher purpose. The Talmud (Berachos 55a) also states that wisdom in craftsmanship is a gift from Hashem to be used responsibly.
Q: How does the concept of working with gold and silver apply to us today?
A: The Kli Yakar explains that this verse teaches us to channel our material resources (symbolized by gold and silver) toward spiritual goals. Just as these metals were used for holy vessels, we should use our wealth and talents to support Torah study, tzedakah (charity), and mitzvos. This idea is echoed in Pirkei Avos (3:17), which states that without Torah, material success has no lasting value.
Context in the Torah
The verse (Exodus 31:4) describes the divinely inspired wisdom given to Betzalel, the chief artisan of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The phrase "לַחְשֹׁב מַחֲשָׁבֹת" ("to contrive works of art") highlights his unique ability to conceptualize and execute intricate craftsmanship in gold, silver, and brass.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Exodus 31:4) emphasizes that Betzalel's wisdom extended beyond mere technical skill—he possessed "חוכמת הלב" ("wisdom of the heart"), a divinely granted understanding of how to combine the materials in accordance with the heavenly blueprint of the Mishkan. This included knowing the hidden meanings behind the Mishkan's construction, such as how it paralleled the creation of the world (as alluded to in Midrash Tanchuma, Pekudei 2).
Symbolism of the Materials
Betzalel's Divine Inspiration
The Talmud (Berachot 55a) teaches that Betzalel's name—"בצל-אל" ("in the shadow of G-d")—reflected his ability to intuit the divine will. His craftsmanship was not merely artistic but a form of Avodat Hashem (service to G-d), aligning physical creation with spiritual intent (Sforno on Exodus 31:3).
Practical Lesson
The Ohr HaChaim (Exodus 31:3) notes that this verse teaches the sanctity of human creativity when directed toward holiness. Just as Betzalel's work elevated physical materials, every Jew can infuse mundane actions with spiritual purpose, transforming the physical into a dwelling place for the Divine (based on Tanya, Chapter 37).