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Exodus 35:26 - Women's wisdom builds the Mishkan

Exodus 35:26 - שמות 35:26

Hebrew Text

וְכָל־הַנָּשִׁים אֲשֶׁר נָשָׂא לִבָּן אֹתָנָה בְּחָכְמָה טָווּ אֶת־הָעִזִּים׃

English Translation

And all the women whose heart stirred them up in wisdom spun goats’ hair.

Transliteration

Ve'khol ha'nashim asher nasa liban otana be'chokhma tavu et ha'izim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְכׇ֨ל־הַנָּשִׁ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֨ר נָשָׂ֥א לִבָּ֛ן אֹתָ֖נָה בְּחׇכְמָ֑ה טָו֖וּ אֶת־הָעִזִּֽים׃
וְכׇ֨ל־הַנָּשִׁ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֨ר נָשָׂ֥א לִבָּ֛ן אֹתָ֖נָה בְּחׇכְמָ֑ה טָו֖וּ אֶת־הָעִזִּֽים׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Shemot 35:26) appears in the context of the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), where the Jewish people contributed materials and labor for its creation. The women, in particular, are praised for their wisdom and skill in spinning goats' hair, which was used for the coverings of the Mishkan.

Explanation of "Whose Heart Stirred Them Up in Wisdom"

Rashi explains that the phrase "נָשָׂא לִבָּן אֹתָנָה בְּחָכְמָה" ("whose heart stirred them up in wisdom") refers to the women's extraordinary wisdom in spinning the goats' hair directly from the goats' backs, rather than first shearing it. This method produced a finer and more durable material, demonstrating their ingenuity and dedication to the Mishkan's construction.

The Significance of Spinning Goats' Hair

The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 48:4) elaborates that the women did not merely spin the goats' hair but did so with such skill that the resulting fabric was both strong and beautiful. This reflects their deep spiritual commitment, as they sought to contribute to the Mishkan in the most elevated manner possible.

The Role of Women in the Mishkan's Construction

  • The Talmud (Shabbat 99a) notes that the women's contributions were voluntary and driven by a sincere desire to participate in this holy endeavor.
  • Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 8:10) highlights that the women's work was not merely technical but infused with wisdom, showing their understanding of the Mishkan's sanctity.

Spiritual Lessons from the Verse

The verse teaches that true service to Hashem involves both wisdom and heartfelt devotion. The women did not just perform a task—they elevated it through their insight and passion, setting an example for all generations in how to dedicate one's talents to a higher purpose.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does it mean that the women 'spun goats' hair' in Exodus 35:26?
A: In Exodus 35:26, the verse describes the women who volunteered their skills to spin goats' hair for the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). According to Rashi, this refers to spinning the hair while it was still on the goats, demonstrating their exceptional wisdom and craftsmanship. The Talmud (Shabbat 99a) also praises their dedication to this holy work.
Q: Why is it significant that the women's hearts were 'stirred up in wisdom'?
A: The phrase 'whose heart stirred them up in wisdom' highlights that these women acted with sincere devotion and divine inspiration. Rambam explains that true service to Hashem comes from inner motivation (Hilchot Issurei Mizbeach 7:11). The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 48:4) also teaches that their wisdom reflected their enthusiasm for contributing to the Mishkan.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the women spinning goats' hair for the Mishkan?
A: This verse teaches the importance of using one's talents for a holy purpose. The women could have spun wool in the usual way, but they went beyond the norm to contribute something special. The Kli Yakar emphasizes that their willingness to innovate for the sake of heaven sets an example for serving Hashem with creativity and devotion.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jewish women today?
A: Just as the women in the desert used their skills for the Mishkan, Jewish women today are encouraged to use their wisdom and talents to build Jewish homes and communities. The Chida (in Nachal Kedumim) notes that their spinning symbolized the weaving of spiritual values into daily life—a timeless lesson for Jewish women in every generation.