The Sedra Nasso 5783

This week we read Parshat Nasso, the longest Torah portion of the year. Within its many verses, we find the account of the Nesiim, the leaders of the tribes, and their contributions to the Mishkan. While their offer to fill in any gaps left by the community’s donations seemed generous, our sages offer a critique of their timing. By waiting to see what was needed, they displayed a lack of Zerizut, or zealousness. As Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto explains in Mesillat Yesharim, zeal is not just about speed; it is about reflecting our excitement and love for God’s commandments. We are only zealous for the things we truly care about. The leaders missed an opportunity to demonstrate that building a home for the Divine was their highest priority. To be a refined Jew, it is not enough to simply perform the Mitzvot; we must do them with energy and passion. I invite you to join me as we explore this vital lesson. Shabbat Shalom.