Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the 'loops of blue' mentioned in Exodus 36:11?
A: The 'loops of blue' (lula'ot techelet) were small loops made from a special blue-dyed wool (techelet) that were attached to the edges of the curtains of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). According to Rashi, these loops connected the curtains together, allowing them to form a complete structure. Techelet is significant because it resembles the sea and the sky, reminding us of Hashem's presence (Chullin 89a).
Q: Why was techelet (blue dye) used for the loops in the Mishkan?
A: Techelet was used because it has deep spiritual significance in Jewish tradition. The Talmud (Menachot 43b) teaches that techelet resembles the sea, which reflects the sky, which in turn reminds us of Hashem's throne of glory. Using techelet in the Mishkan helped inspire awe and connection to the Divine presence that rested there.
Q: How were the curtains of the Mishkan connected according to this verse?
A: The curtains were connected through the loops of blue (techelet) mentioned in this verse. Rashi explains that each curtain had loops on its edge, and these loops were then joined together with golden clasps (Exodus 26:6). This created a unified structure, symbolizing the unity and harmony required in serving Hashem.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the details of the Mishkan's construction?
A: The detailed construction of the Mishkan teaches us the importance of precision and devotion in serving Hashem. Just as every loop and curtain had a specific purpose, every mitzvah and detail in our lives matters. The Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 1:12) emphasizes that holiness comes through careful attention to divine commandments.
Q: Does the color blue (techelet) have significance in Judaism today?
A: Yes, techelet remains significant in Judaism, particularly in the mitzvah of tzitzit (fringes on a tallit). The Torah commands us to include a thread of techelet in tzitzit (Numbers 15:38) as a reminder of Hashem's commandments. Though its exact dye was lost for centuries, recent discoveries have allowed some to revive this practice based on Talmudic and rabbinic sources (Rambam, Hilchot Tzitzit 2:1-2).
Explanation of the Verse
The verse describes the construction of the loops (lula'ot) made of blue (techelet) wool on the edges of the curtains (yeri'ot) of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). These loops were used to connect the curtains together, forming the covering of the Mishkan.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi (Exodus 26:4) explains that the loops were made of techelet, a blue dye derived from the chilazon (a sea creature), symbolizing the heavens and the Divine Presence. He notes that the loops were placed at the edges of the curtains to ensure they could be securely fastened with golden clasps (karshim), as described later in the parsha.
Rambam's Insight
In Hilchot Beit HaBechirah (Laws of the Temple), Rambam (Maimonides) emphasizes the precision required in constructing the Mishkan. The placement of the loops at specific intervals ensured that the curtains would align perfectly, reflecting the importance of order and exactness in Divine service.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash Tanchuma (Terumah 10) connects the techelet loops to the unity of the Jewish people. Just as the loops joined the curtains, the Jewish people must be united in their service of Hashem. The color blue also serves as a reminder of the mitzvot, as the Torah compares the commandments to the blue of the sea and the heavens (Sifrei Bamidbar 115).
Symbolism of Techelet
The use of techelet carries deep symbolism:
Practical Construction
The Talmud (Shabbat 99a) discusses the technical details of how the loops were arranged—50 loops on each curtain, corresponding to one another, so they could be joined with the clasps. This meticulous design ensured the stability and beauty of the Mishkan's covering.