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Exodus 35:22 - Hearts willingly give gold.

Exodus 35:22 - שמות 35:22

Hebrew Text

וַיָּבֹאוּ הָאֲנָשִׁים עַל־הַנָּשִׁים כֹּל נְדִיב לֵב הֵבִיאוּ חָח וָנֶזֶם וְטַבַּעַת וְכוּמָז כָּל־כְּלִי זָהָב וְכָל־אִישׁ אֲשֶׁר הֵנִיף תְּנוּפַת זָהָב לַיהוָה׃

English Translation

And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing of heart, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and bracelets, all jewels of gold: and every man that had offered an offering of gold to the Lord.

Transliteration

Vayavo'u ha'anashim al-hanashim kol nediv lev hevi'u chach vanezem vetaba'at vekhumaz kol-kli zahav vechol-ish asher heinif tenufat zahav la'Adonai.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיָּבֹ֥אוּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים עַל־הַנָּשִׁ֑ים כֹּ֣ל&thinsp
וַיָּבֹ֥אוּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים עַל־הַנָּשִׁ֑ים כֹּ֣ל&thinsp

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Generosity of Willing Hearts

The verse (Shemot 35:22) describes the voluntary contributions of the Israelites toward the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Rashi explains that the phrase "כֹּל נְדִיב לֵב" ("as many as were willing of heart") emphasizes that these donations were given with complete sincerity and enthusiasm, not out of obligation. The Midrash Tanchuma (Pekudei 4) further notes that this willingness reflected their desire to atone for the sin of the Golden Calf, demonstrating repentance through acts of generosity.

The Nature of the Donations

The verse lists specific items brought by the people: חָח וָנֶזֶם וְטַבַּעַת וְכוּמָז ("bracelets, earrings, rings, and bracelets"). The Talmud (Shabbat 64a) discusses the meaning of כּוּמָז (kumaz), suggesting it refers to a type of golden ornament, possibly a belt or girdle. Ramban (Nachmanides) adds that these items were personal adornments, indicating that the people gave from their most cherished possessions, not merely surplus wealth.

The Significance of the Gold Offering

The verse concludes with "וְכָל־אִישׁ אֲשֶׁר הֵנִיף תְּנוּפַת זָהָב לַיהוָה" ("and every man that had offered an offering of gold to the Lord"). The term תְּנוּפָה (tenufah, "wave offering") is significant. Ibn Ezra explains that this refers to a ceremonial lifting of the offering, symbolizing its dedication to Hashem. The Kli Yakar (R' Shlomo Ephraim of Luntschitz) teaches that this act demonstrated the people's recognition that all wealth ultimately belongs to G-d, and they were merely returning a portion of what He had given them.

Spiritual Lessons from the Verse

  • Voluntary Giving: True generosity comes from a willing heart, not coercion (Rashi).
  • Repentance Through Giving: The donations served as a rectification for earlier spiritual failings (Midrash Tanchuma).
  • Dedication of Valuables: The people gave their most prized possessions, showing their commitment to the Mishkan (Ramban).
  • Divine Ownership: The wave offering reinforced that all material wealth is entrusted to us by Hashem (Kli Yakar).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Exodus 35:22 mean?
A: Exodus 35:22 describes how both men and women willingly donated their gold jewelry—such as bracelets, earrings, and rings—to contribute to the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). This shows their generosity and devotion to fulfilling Hashem's commandment.
Q: Why is the phrase 'willing of heart' important in this verse?
A: The phrase 'willing of heart' (נְדִיב לֵב) emphasizes that the donations were given with pure intentions and joy, not out of obligation. The Midrash teaches that Hashem values voluntary offerings more than compulsory ones, as they reflect true love for the Divine service.
Q: What can we learn from the people's donations in Exodus 35:22?
A: We learn the importance of giving generously and wholeheartedly for a holy cause. Rashi explains that the people's eagerness to donate gold—even their personal jewelry—demonstrates their deep commitment to building a dwelling place for the Divine Presence (Shechinah).
Q: Why did both men and women bring jewelry for the Mishkan?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 66a) notes that women were especially enthusiastic in donating their jewelry, showing their strong desire to participate in this mitzvah. Their contributions were equally valued, highlighting the importance of unity in serving Hashem.
Q: How does Exodus 35:22 apply to us today?
A: This verse teaches us that supporting holy causes—whether building synagogues, supporting Torah study, or helping the needy—should be done with a willing heart. The Rambam (Hilchos Matnos Aniyim 10:4) states that giving with joy brings greater spiritual reward.