February 25, 2023; 4 Adar, 5783
Parsha “Speak to the Bnei Yisroel, and they shall take for Me, Terumah, from every person whose heart is so moved…” (Exodus 25:2)
The words “take for Me, Terumah” would appear to be the incorrect words to use. The correct words to use would be “give to me, Terumah”.
Rav Eliyahu Dessler ZT”L in his Michtav M’Eliyahu explains that the best way that one can become close to another individual is to give something to him. When one gives to another, one forms a close bond with that person. Based upon this Michtav M’Eliyahu, perhaps we can say that when one gives Terumah to Hashem, one becomes close to Hashem and there is no greater gift that one can receive from Hashem than becoming close to Him...