Tetzaveh
Exodus 27:20 – 30:10
God commands the Israelites to bring pure olive oil for the Menorah's eternal light. The parasha then details the sacred garments of the High Priest — the breastplate set with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes, the ephod, the robe with golden bells and pomegranates, the turban with its golden plate inscribed 'Holy to Hashem,' and the linen garments for the ordinary priests. An elaborate seven-day consecration ceremony is prescribed, including sacrificial offerings and the anointing of Aaron and his sons. The parasha concludes with instructions for the golden incense altar.
Key figures
- Aaron — Designated as High Priest, wears the sacred garments, serves in the Tabernacle
- Aaron's sons (Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, Ithamar) — Consecrated as priests alongside their father
Famous verses
- 27:20 And you shall command the children of Israel, that they bring to you pure olive oil beaten for the light, to cause a lamp to burn continually.
- 28:2 And you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for honor and for glory.
- 28:36 And you shall make a plate of pure gold, and engrave upon it, like the engravings of a signet: HOLY TO HASHEM.
Haftarah: {'ref': 'Ezekiel 43:10-27', 'connection': 'Ezekiel describes the altar of the future Temple and its consecration, mirroring the Tabernacle altar consecration and priestly investiture detailed in Tetzaveh.'}
Total gematria 461,906 is divisible by 86, the value of Elohim.