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Exodus 35:34 - Divinely inspired teaching gifts

Exodus 35:34 - שמות 35:34

Hebrew Text

וּלְהוֹרֹת נָתַן בְּלִבּוֹ הוּא וְאָהֳלִיאָב בֶּן־אֲחִיסָמָךְ לְמַטֵּה־דָן׃

English Translation

And he has put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Oholi᾽av, the son of Aĥisamakh, of the tribe of Dan.

Transliteration

Ulehorot natan belibo hu ve'Ahali'av ben-Achisamach lemateh-Dan.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּלְהוֹרֹ֖ת נָתַ֣ן בְּלִבּ֑וֹ ה֕וּא וְאׇֽהֳלִיאָ֥ב בֶּן־אֲחִיסָמָ֖ךְ לְמַטֵּה־דָֽן׃
וּלְהוֹרֹ֖ת נָתַ֣ן בְּלִבּ֑וֹ ה֕וּא וְאׇֽהֳלִיאָ֥ב בֶּן־אֲחִיסָמָ֖ךְ לְמַטֵּה־דָֽן׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Exodus 35:34) appears in the context of the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), where Betzalel and Oholiav are appointed as the chief artisans. The Torah emphasizes that Hashem endowed them with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge to carry out this sacred task.

Explanation of the Text

The phrase "וּלְהוֹרֹת נָתַן בְּלִבּוֹ" ("And he has put in his heart that he may teach") refers to the divine inspiration granted to Betzalel and Oholiav. Rashi explains that this means they were given the ability not only to perform the craftsmanship themselves but also to instruct others in the intricate details of the Mishkan's construction.

Role of Betzalel and Oholiav

  • Betzalel: From the tribe of Yehudah, he was the primary artisan, chosen for his exceptional wisdom (Chochmah), understanding (Tevunah), and knowledge (Da'at). The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 40:4) highlights that Betzalel's name itself—"Betzel Keil" (in the shadow of G-d)—reflects his divine inspiration.
  • Oholiav: From the tribe of Dan, he was Betzalel's assistant. The inclusion of Oholiav, from a tribe not traditionally associated with leadership, teaches that wisdom and skill are not confined to any particular lineage (Ramban on Exodus 31:6).

Significance of Teaching (הוֹרֹת)

The Sforno notes that the ability to teach (הוֹרֹת) was crucial because the Mishkan's construction required precise adherence to halachic and artistic details. Betzalel and Oholiav were not only craftsmen but also educators, ensuring that all workers followed the divine blueprint accurately.

Spiritual Lesson

The Talmud (Berachos 55a) derives from this verse that true wisdom includes the ability to impart knowledge to others. The Rambam (Hilchos Talmud Torah 1:11) expands on this, stating that those endowed with wisdom have a responsibility to teach and elevate others, just as Betzalel and Oholiav did.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Exodus 35:34 mean when it says 'And he has put in his heart that he may teach'?
A: This verse refers to Betzalel and Oholiav, the master craftsmen chosen to oversee the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Rashi explains that Hashem endowed them with exceptional wisdom and skill ('put in his heart') not just for craftsmanship, but also to teach others—showing that true leadership involves sharing knowledge generously.
Q: Why is Oholiav from the tribe of Dan mentioned alongside Betzalel (from Judah)?
A: The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 40:4) highlights that Oholiav’s inclusion—despite being from the 'less prestigious' tribe of Dan—teaches that Torah and divine service elevate all who dedicate themselves, regardless of background. Betzalel (from Judah) and Oholiav (from Dan) together symbolize unity in serving Hashem.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Betzalel and Oholiav's partnership in building the Mishkan?
A: The Talmud (Berachos 55a) derives that collaboration is essential for sacred work. Betzalel (skilled in artistry) and Oholiav (skilled in weaving) combined their talents, showing that differing strengths—when united for a holy purpose—create something greater than individual efforts.
Q: How does the idea of 'teaching' in this verse apply to us today?
A: Rambam (Hilchos Talmud Torah 1:8) teaches that those gifted with wisdom must share it, just as Betzalel and Oholiav did. Whether in Torah study, craftsmanship, or any skill, we’re obligated to pass knowledge to others—fulfilling the verse’s call to 'teach.'
Q: Why does the verse emphasize that Oholiav was 'the son of Achisamach'?
A: Names in Torah often carry meaning. 'Achisamach' means 'my brother supports.' The Kli Yakar notes this hints at Oholiav’s supportive role alongside Betzalel, reminding us that even 'secondary' contributors are honored by name in Torah for their essential service to Hashem.