Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Exodus 35:33 mean?
A: Exodus 35:33 describes the skills given by Hashem to Betzalel and other craftsmen for building the Mishkan (Tabernacle). It highlights their ability in stone-setting and wood-carving to create artistic and functional items for sacred use. Rashi explains that this refers to the craftsmanship needed for the Mishkan's construction, showing that even practical skills are divinely inspired when used for holy purposes.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse is important because it teaches that artistic talent and craftsmanship are gifts from Hashem, especially when used for sacred purposes like building the Mishkan. The Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash) emphasizes that skilled work for the Mishkan was considered a form of divine service, showing that all talents can elevate the physical world when directed toward holiness.
Q: What can we learn from Exodus 35:33 today?
A: We learn that every skill—even seemingly mundane ones like woodworking or stone-setting—has spiritual value when used properly. The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 48) notes that Betzalel's wisdom came from Hashem, teaching us to use our talents for mitzvos and community needs. Today, this applies to using our professions or hobbies to help others or enhance Jewish life.
Q: How does this verse relate to Shabbat?
A: Exodus 35:33 is part of the section discussing the Mishkan's construction, which also introduces the 39 categories of forbidden Shabbat labor (Melachos). The Talmud (Shabbat 73a) derives from this that carving wood or setting stones are among the prohibited creative acts on Shabbat, as they mirror the Mishkan's craftsmanship. This reminds us to separate creative work on Shabbat.
Q: Who was Betzalel, and why is he connected to this verse?
A: Betzalel was the chief artisan of the Mishkan, chosen by Hashem (Exodus 35:30–31) for his wisdom in craftsmanship. Rashi explains that his name ('in the shadow of G-d') hints to his divine inspiration. This verse describes the specific skills he and his team possessed, showing how Hashem equips individuals with unique abilities for communal holiness.
Context in the Torah
This verse (Exodus 31:5) is part of Hashem's instruction to Moshe regarding the appointment of Betzalel as the chief artisan for the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). It highlights the divine wisdom granted to Betzalel in craftsmanship, specifically in stone-setting and woodcarving for sacred purposes.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that "וּבַחֲרֹשֶׁת אֶבֶן לְמַלֹּאת" refers to the skill of setting precious stones into the Choshen (High Priest's breastplate) and the Efod. The term "לְמַלֹּאת" implies filling the sockets with stones so they fit perfectly without falling out. Regarding "וּבַחֲרֹשֶׁת עֵץ", Rashi notes this includes carving the wooden boards and overlays of the Mishkan with artistic designs.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchos Klei HaMikdash (Laws of Temple Vessels 9:7), Rambam emphasizes that these skills were not merely technical but required ruach hakodesh (divine inspiration). The artisans needed spiritual elevation to create vessels fit for divine service, as physical craftsmanship alone was insufficient for sacred work.
Talmudic Insights
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash Tanchuma (Vayakhel 7) states that Betzalel could even "join heaven and earth" through his craftsmanship, symbolizing how the Mishkan served as a microcosm of creation. The precision in stone-setting and woodcarving reflected the harmony of the physical and spiritual worlds.
Halachic Significance
Later poskim, including the Mishneh LaMelech, derive from this verse that craftsmanship for sacred objects requires both technical expertise and pure intent (lishmah). This principle extends to scribes writing Torah scrolls and artisans crafting synagogue ornaments.