Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'shittim wood' refer to in Exodus 26:15?
A: Shittim wood (עֲצֵי שִׁטִּים) refers to acacia wood, a durable and strong type of wood. According to Rashi, it was chosen for the Mishkan (Tabernacle) because it was readily available in the desert and symbolized resilience and purity. The Midrash also notes that the shittim wood was planted by Yaakov (Jacob) in Egypt for this future purpose (Midrash Tanchuma, Terumah 9).
Q: Why were the boards of the Mishkan made to stand upright?
A: The verse states the boards were to stand upright (עֹמְדִים) to emphasize their stability and permanence. The Ramban explains that this upright position symbolizes the enduring presence of the Divine in the Mishkan. Additionally, the Talmud (Shabbat 98b) teaches that the boards were miraculously self-supporting, reflecting the idea that the Mishkan was sustained by divine will.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the use of shittim wood in the Mishkan?
A: The use of shittim wood teaches us that even simple, earthly materials can become sacred when dedicated to a higher purpose. The Sforno explains that the Mishkan's construction from ordinary wood demonstrates that holiness is not about the material itself but how it is used in service of Hashem. This reminds us to elevate our everyday actions for spiritual growth.
Q: How does the construction of the Mishkan apply to us today?
A: Just as the Mishkan was built with intention and holiness, we are taught to make our homes and lives a 'Mikdash Me'at' (a small sanctuary). The Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 1:1) explains that the principles of the Mishkan extend to creating sacred spaces in our daily lives. By dedicating our actions to Torah values, we emulate the Mishkan's sanctity.
Q: Why was the Mishkan built with wooden boards instead of stone or metal?
A: Wood was chosen for its balance of strength and humility. Rashi notes that stone or metal would have been too heavy for transport in the desert, while wood was practical yet dignified. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 35:2) also teaches that wood represents growth and renewal, aligning with the spiritual purpose of the Mishkan to elevate Bnei Yisrael (the Children of Israel).
The Significance of Shittim Wood
Rashi (Exodus 26:15) explains that the term עֲצֵי שִׁטִּים (shittim wood) refers to acacia wood, a durable and resilient material. The Midrash Tanchuma (Terumah 9) adds that this wood was chosen because it does not rot or decay, symbolizing the eternal nature of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and the Torah it housed.
The Boards Standing Upright
The phrase עֹמְדִים (standing up) is interpreted by the Ramban (Exodus 26:15) to mean that the boards were placed vertically, emphasizing stability and permanence. The Talmud (Shabbat 98b) further elaborates that the boards were miraculously able to stand on their own, demonstrating divine assistance in the construction of the Mishkan.
Symbolism of the Boards
Practical Construction Details
According to the Mishnah (Middot 3:6), each board was 10 cubits tall and 1.5 cubits wide. The Ibn Ezra (Exodus 26:15) explains that the precise measurements highlight the importance of exactitude in fulfilling mitzvot, as every detail of the Mishkan's construction had spiritual significance.