This Torah portion is called Terumah, translated in English as "contribution" or "donation."
The reading is from Exodus 25:1-27:19. The text deals with the contributions of the children of Israel to construct the Tabernacle in the wilderness. The text is fascinating and has some significant ramifications for us today.
The reading from the prophets is from II Kings 11:17 - 12:17; Isaiah 66:1; Isaiah 66:23-24.
The reading from the New Testament is from Matthew 17:22-27.
As an introduction to these readings from the Bible, I would like to quote the Apostle Paul's message on the Areopagus in Athens. The Areopagus was the hill next to the Parthenon in the center of Athens, Greece, in the days of the Apostle Paul, i.e., in the First Century C.E. (A.D.)
Acts 17: 24-28,
"God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. 25 Nor is He worshiped with men's hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things. 26 And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, 27so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; 28 for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, "For we are also His offspring."
King Solomon said some similar things at the Temple's dedication in Jerusalem.
"Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands toward heaven; and he said: "LORD God of Israel, there is no God in heaven above or on earth below like You, who keep Your covenant and mercy with Your servants who walk before You with all their hearts. You have kept what You promised Your servant David my father; You have both spoken with Your mouth and fulfilled it with Your hand, as it is this day. Therefore, LORD God of Israel, now keep what You promised Your servant David my father, saying, "You shall not fail to have a man sit before Me on the throne of Israel, only if your sons take heed to their way, that they walk before Me as you have walked before Me.'" (1 Kings 8:22-25 NKJV)
Now that we have established that the God who created the world doesn't need buildings, food, or a bath to establish his kingdom on earth, this question takes me back to this Shabbat's Torah portion, which starts with the following words!
"Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: "Speak to the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering. From everyone who gives it willingly with his heart you shall take My offering. And this is the offering which you shall take from them: gold, silver, and bronze; blue, purple, and scarlet thread, fine linen, and goats' hair; ram skins dyed red, badger skins, and acacia wood; oil for the light, and spices for the anointing oil and for the sweet incense; onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod and in the breastplate. And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you, that is, the pattern of the Tabernacle and the pattern of all its furnishings, just so you shall make it. "And they shall make an ark of acacia wood; two and a half cubits shall be its length, a cubit and a half its width, and a cubit and a half its height." (Exodus 25:1-10 NKJV)
Our father Abraham didn't have a tabernacle, a temple, or a permanent home in the land that God promised him and his seed as a possession. Abraham and his encampment were always outside the cities and separated from the local inhabitants. He didn't own one square meter of land in Canaan until Sarah died, and he had to find for her a burial place, which he paid for without even bargaining for the price. Now God, the Creator of the Universe, is asking people (flesh and blood) to bring an offering of gold, silver, acacia wood, sweet incense, and badger skins. What changed in God's mind to require the people of Israel, who were enslaved people and sons of enslaved people for several generations, to bring all these earthly "things" and contribute to the building of a manufactured physical Tabernacle made from tacky-tacky?
There are several explanations for God's command to build a hand-made tent with hand-made furniture. Why did he build an altar for animal sacrifices on a man-made altar officiated by men who were sinners like all flesh?
I am not sure that I understand all of God's reasons for asking to build him a physical tabernacle like the pagan neighbors around Israel. Even the architecture of the Tabernacle was not significantly different from the houses of the gods of our neighbors. I will try to share a little of how God, the world's Creator, thinks and makes concessions for our weaknesses so that we don't copy our pagan neighbors.
There is a sudden shift from the revelation at Mount Sinai—where God spoke directly to the people and commanded them not to make images of the idols our Canaanite neighbors worshiped. (Exodus 20:3-4). The instruction to build a Tabernacle (Mishkan) using gold, silver, and other costly materials (Exodus 25:1-9) raises profound theological and historical questions. Here are several possible explanations and considerations for this shift:
God Responded to Our Human Weakness and the Golden Calf Incident. God understood our weakness as a nation: that we wanted to copy all the pagan customs and holidays and dress the idolatry of our neighbors with a prayer—Sahel and kipa—and hope that God, who created the world, would not notice the customs of uncircumcised Philistines.
The instruction to build the Tabernacle (Exodus 25) is given before the sin of the Golden Calf (Exodus 32). Still, many commentators (such as Rashi) suggest that the Torah does not follow chronological order. In this view, the Mishkan was a divine concession to human weakness—a physical structure that would serve as a tangible focus for worship to prevent idolatry.
The Israelites come from Egypt after being slaves of the Egyptians. There, they built pagan temples for the gods of Egypt. The sudden, abstract concept of an invisible God might have been too difficult to grasp, leading them to create the Golden Calf. The Mishkan redirected this need for physicality into legitimate worship. Unlike pagan temples, which glorified idols, the Mishkan transformed gold, silver, and luxurious materials into a quasi-dwelling place for the Divine Presence (Shekhinah). This concept elevates physicality into spirituality, teaching that wealth and beauty can serve God if used correctly. The contribution of the physical materials for the building of the Tabernacle made the Tabernacle a part of their possession because their things were incorporated as a part of their identity and part owners of the whole Tabernacle. The contributions were voluntary (Exodus 25:2); it was as if they invested in the house of God's presence, emphasizing they are now part owners of God's house.
The Israelites needed an organized way to worship God as a community. Without a designated place, they might have continued diverse, uncontrolled worship practices, potentially leading to a situation in which everyone did whatever was right in his own eyes.
The Tent of Meeting functioned as a meeting place between God and Israel (Exodus 25:22). It was an address, a safe place providing structured worship instead of the chaotic and unauthorized practices of the surrounding nations. God knew his people, Israel, and knew that there should be one place, a location, a kosher structure to meet with God and the community sanctified by His presence 24 hours per day and available for worship and communication between the Creator and his chosen nation, Israel.
The giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai was a one-time event, but Israel needed a way to maintain a tangible sense of God's presence throughout their journey and in the Promised Land.
The Tabernacle in the wilderness was called the "Tent of Meeting" (Ohel Mo'ed) because it made it possible to have a place in a sustainable, controlled location that traveled with them in the 40 years of the wilderness of Sinai desert wandering.
The Principle of Divine Presence is always with Israel during the shifting sands of the Sinai desert. The Tabernacle was a steady place of God "dwelling among them". (Exodus 25:8) The Tabernacle shifted from the transcendent, awe-inspiring God of Sinai to an immanent, approachable God who dwells within the people.
God initiated the covenant at Sinai by speaking and giving the Torah. In constructing the Tabernacle, the people reciprocated by contributing their wealth and effort, demonstrating their commitment to the relationship between Israel and the people and God. Israel is no longer a passive receiver of God's grace but an active participant in God's program for the redemptive work that God projected for them to be a light for all nations.
Contrast with Pagan Idolatry. While the Mishkan was a physical structure, it was fundamentally different from pagan temples: There was no idol placed inside the Tabernacle, and every Israelite had a contribution and part ownership in this magnificent portable Temple that was collectively created with the personal contribution invested into the structure.
The Tabernacle served as a prototype for the Temple in Jerusalem, training the Israelites in sacred service and discipline. The sacrificial system and priestly functions established in the Sinai became the foundation for future Jewish worship practices in the Temple in Jerusalem. The furniture in the Tabernacle was in the wilderness, a symbol of Creation. We learn this by comparing Genesis 1-2 with Exodus 39:43. We find the exact phrase: "And he saw that it was good" (Exodus 39:43). Unlike the temples of our pagan neighbors, the Tabernacle represented a mini-model of the Creation of the universe where God and humanity dwelt together and enjoyed a partnership.
Teaching the People the Value of Giving. Our Torah portion also teaches the people to partner with the Creator in maintaining Creation. The voluntary donations for the building reinforced generosity and communal responsibility. It was a lesson that holiness comes not just from receiving divine gifts (the Torah) but from giving and building together in partnership between man and God.
The encounters with God, as at Sinai, were (Exodus 20:18-19) a shocking experience. As we read in Exodus chapter 20, the people were afraid and asked Moses to cover his face. Now, as their journey in the wilderness continues, the people of Israel and the non-Israelite tribes that joined them had a more personal and calm event that gave them a more structured, accessible way for Israel to engage with God without the overwhelming fear of death like during receiving the Torah at the foot of mount Sinai.
We all need to learn three lessons from this Torah portion.
1. God doesn't need our money, gold, silk, or purple cloth. We see this in 1 King 8 with King Solomon's words for the dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem and Paul's words in Acts 17 in Athens.
2. We need to give our very best to God's work in order to be partners and have ownership in the realm of God's holiness and presence.
3. If we don't participate and give our best with the pure intention of our hearts, we will never have a genuine, sincere, and holy relationship with the almighty, and we will always feel like strangers in God's house. The giving is not for God – the giving is for us so that when we worship God, we walk on His earth and enjoy His provisions and gifts.
We will know that the HaMotzi food program and the Netivyah building are partially mine. I have a part in them, and I am proud to be a part of this august work for God. I have a part in the blessing from heaven for these people, my fellow brothers in God's Kingdom.
I can testify that I am happy and proud to be a part of Netivyah in Jerusalem and also Netivyah International, which is doing magnificent work to present Israel's best side and continues to support the work of the HaMotzi food program, which is the Rolls Royce of food charities in Jerusalem.
God bless you, and please read the Torah Portion of Terumah from Exodus 25:1 forward. Connect your reading from the Torah with Paul's first letter to the community in Corinth:
"Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. And when I come, whomever you approve by your letters, I will send to bear your gift to Jerusalem."
(1 Corinthians 16:1-3 NKJV).
Please go to www.netivyahinternational.org and seek to partner with Netivyah International and Netivyah in Jerusalem in doing the will of our Lord with practical means for the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and Jerusalem.
These new videos and podcasts were published since our last news letter.
1) Messianic Judaism is at a crossroads - Joseph Shulam
Messianic Judaism is at a crossroads—what is our true purpose? In this powerful discussion, Joseph Shulam unpacks the deep tensions and triumphs within the Messianic Jewish movement, exploring its roots, its relationship with the Church, and the path forward. Is Messianic Judaism a branch of evangelical Christianity, or is it something distinct—something ancient being restored? Discover the role of Torah, the significance of Jewish identity in Yeshua, and why unity, truth, and humility are essential in this prophetic time. Join us as we reclaim our purpose in God’s grand design.
2) Embracing a New Era of Community - Joseph Shulam
Exploring practical ways to revitalize your church’s approach to worship, meetings, and community engagement. Join us as we dive into refreshing discussions on what it means to be the Church in today’s worldWorld Evangelism - Manilla Lausanne Committee
3) Turn What (Shalom Y'all - Beth Shulam)
The Sermon on the Mount? What was the pagan Justice system vs the Biblical Jewish system. How do we turn upside down our worlds narrative? Are you having problems with social media today? Listen for some biblical principles to help you deal with difficult situations and people.
4) Torah Portion 18 Mishpatim (משפטים) - Judgments Mishpatim ( Weekly Torah Portion - Joseph Shulam)
Torah Portion 18 Mishpatim (משפטים) - Judgments Mishpatim (Exodus 21:1–24:18), exploring the detailed laws given after the Ten Commandments. This portion highlights God’s justice, emphasizing principles of fairness, accountability, and societal responsibility, including laws on damages, slavery, and inheritance. Joseph connects these ancient laws to New Testament teachings, showing their continued relevance for disciples of Yeshua. With insights into historical legal codes, he demonstrates how the Torah was innovative, righteous, and deeply rooted in God’s grace. Discover how these timeless instructions inform modern faith and ethical living.
5) Gospel to Go Podcast (There was no King in Israel - Joseph Shulam)
Delve into the life and legacy of Samuel, the prophet whose unwavering obedience transformed celestial calls into earthly triumphs. Discover how “obedience forges destiny,” as we explore his profound impact in an era defined by kings and chaos.
The Prayer List
Your prayers for brothers and sisters you don't know personally are pure love and building of the Body of the Messiah. It is Agape Love since you are doing this without any selfish interests and casting a vote in Heaven for someone who is your brother. Still, you don't know them, and God looks at these prayers that are unselfish and genuine expressions of love and care for another link in the long chain of love and faith that binds us together even though we might not know each other in this world.
When we all get to Heaven, it will be a joy to meet people we prayed for and sometimes even cried for. Brothers and sisters who are physically strangers but spiritually a part of the same body of Christ, I believe that one day we will have the privilege to sit together and share: "I remember praying for you to be healed!" "I remember praying for you to be safe when you were fighting in Gaza to free the hostages from the cruel hands of the terrorists of the Hamas in Gaza."
Pray for the following brothers and sisters who need divine grace and the gentle touch of the hand of God for healing and strength.
In Jerusalem:
If you have followed the news, tomorrow is a day full of grief with bodies of two babies, a mother and man.
who were murdered in cold blood being exchanged for multiple criminals. Lift the nation of Israel in prayer. When these images are placed on the news share on social media.
Joseph & Marcia Shulam
update We are thankful for Marcias 76th Birthday celebration this week. Mom has had another 10 days of saline IV prescribed. We have noticed some improvement with that. Continue to pray for an improvement in mom's strength and appetite. Dad needs prayers for his pain and the huge task of taking and organizing medical meetings for mom.
Ilana Ahijervie is a dear sister who is 99 years old and suffering from memory problems.
Please pray for our dear sister, Lea Kurkey.
Pray for Adam's father and mother, Barry and Dalia. They have some health problems and challenges.
Pray for Miriam a dear sister old age dementia.
Pray for Um Mahmud Abu-Eid, Jimmy Abu-Eid, and all of the family. This is a dear family of old friends that needs healing and wisdom for the children and for their work.
Please pray for the Romero family, who live deep in the Negev desert. It is hot there, and they are far from our congregation, and we miss them.
In the U.K.:
Pray for Deborah Isaiah. I pray for the Lord to find Deborah Isaiah and lead her to a blessed life, family, and a solution to her problems.
In Finland:
Mauno Lemponen has been diagnosed with cancer in advanced stages. We are asking for God's Will to be done, giving him healthy days with family—prayers for Hilka, Miika, and Ester, who support each other.
Pray for Keijo and Salme, our dear partners and fellow workers in God's flock. Both Keijo and Salme have some challenging heart issues.
Pray for Satu-Maria, Sinni Tuuli, Anne Mirjami, our dear sisters
Pray for Eva H., Patty, Andrea, Julia, Victor, Aaron Tani, and Hillel.
In Italy:
Roberto has reached out on behalf of his friend Nicoletta B whose father has passed way recently. Please pray for her spirit as she struggles with such loss.
In Ethiopia:
Diu G. has been sick with meningitis and he and his family are all in need of prayers for strength and healing to help him.
In Brazil:
Max is anxious waiting for a court decision regarding documentation on his families jewish roots. Please keep Max and the courts outcome in your prayers.
Pray for a dear young man, Paulo, from Curitiba, Brazil, who seriously needs our prayers for sanity and mental health.
Pray for a dear sister named Claudia Rita Souze Arau. She has cancer and needs God's healing hands to touch her with healing.
Pray for Fatima Maria Docarmo Guimararaes - pray for her health and her granddaughters' twin babies.
Guilherme Antonio Nothen Becker is suffering from back problems.
Aratuza de Oliveira and his wife. Pray for their 3-year-old child, Caique de Oliveira Becker, who has severe problems with his eyes, and ask the Lord to give healing to his eyes.
In Asia:
Pray for Pastor TJ in Taiwan.
Pray for Deborah Ruth, a dear sister from China.
Pray for Sister Yoko Nagumo in Japan.
Tony Tam, his wife Luisa, and his son Marco need special prayers for their situation.
We continue to pray for Zhou Wenrian, the Abe family, Toru San, Yumi Ohara, and her family: Deborah Ruth, Ayla, Daniel, and their daughter.
Pray for Dr. Song and his wife, Sister Harriet Kim and the KIBI Ministry.
In the United States of America:
Chris W is currently have a difficult time finding employment. he has applied for for some additional jobs and has some interviews this week. Please keep him in your prayers. Employment for those in the 50s sometimes is difficult.
Manny is asking for prayers for his fathers health that is in decline.
update Shirleyann is dealing with kidneys that are not functioning as well and has a sweet new person who visits a couple times a week to get groceries. She is thankful for this and would like for you to remember her in your prayers.
Pete and Marge. Marge is undergoing test for Brest cancer and they are in the process of trying to get legal guardianship of their grandkids. They are both in the mid 80s. Please pray for strength and longevity to get these kids past college age.
Jose needs your prayers for a blessing on his marriage to grow stronger and prayers for the birth of a Son.
Pat A. has retuned home and is recovering from the skin graft surgery.
Aida Ramirez is 98 years old and suffering from first stages of dementia. Also her daughter Aida Gonzalez needs prayer for strength and Gods grace and protection as she is taking care of her mother.
Pat S needs prayers for the pains she is experiencing from a pinched nerve, Philip her husband of 67 years is a dedicated man of God who is caring for her diligently - please keep them both in prayers. We are praying for a better treatment for the pain management.
update Jerry Rogers - a long time prayer warrior and supporter in Dallas has been diagnosed with cancer. has returned home after being in the hospital for an extended period of time for treatments.
Larry is asking for prayers for his grandchildren. I would say most of us that have grandchildren are concerned about the states of the world. The state of intolerance. The temptations out there. Please pray for the holy sprit to guide them in making good choices.
Bill C got a break before a PET Scan month end. Please pray a thanks to God and continue to ask for success of the treatments and for Bill to hear good news from the scans.
Juli's blood counts still need to improve. She is awaiting for the next scans. Please give a prayer for positive results.
Barbra and Angie in Alaska. Barbra has some pains and discomfort related to old age. Please lift them in prayer for strength and reduction in pain.
Please pray for Danah, my daughter's health issues. I pray for the Lord to give Danah wisdom, peace, and calm in life and her work.
Aaron Hook, Nancy Hook's oldest son, needs our prayers for wisdom and healing from past life issues.
Lift for blessing and healing Jonathan B., his wife Aviva, their new baby, his mother, and his brother Daniel.
Pray for these important men of God: Rabbi Salt, his family, and Rabbi Hasselblad. They are both older and need protection and blessings.
pray for Ilana Avramov, who is married to my cousin Nissim and lives in New York City. Ilana is home now. We pray for her full recovery. She and Nissim both need our prayers.
Pray for Steve Mock - His cognitive condition has declined, and we ask for the grace of God and His Healing and strength. Steve and Josie's son Joseph has received a wonderful and glorious report. After the last bone marrow transplant, the report is that the doctors didn't find any leukemia in his body! Praise the Lord!
In Zimbabwe
new Chief Mposi is recovering from a broken leg and dislocated arm. He has been waiting for the placement of a cast on his leg at the Hospital.
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