Vayakhel-Pekudei 5783: The Washbasin – Sanctuary and Sexuality

Posted by Pardes Faculty on March 12, 2023
Topics: Torah, Pardes from Jerusalem, Shemot (Exodus), VaYakhel, Pekudei

The Sanctuary’s washbasin came from mirrors donated by the Israelite women. Yet, Rashi’s comment raises some doubts that Moses had regarding the propriety of using these mirrors, items that are generally used for feminine beautification. This opens a discussion of the place of sexuality in the Tabernacle.

Credits: Rabbi Alex Israel and Rabbi Elhanan Miller – Pardes Faculty

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