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Exodus 40:28 - Divine entrance's sacred veil

Exodus 40:28 - שמות 40:28

Hebrew Text

וַיָּשֶׂם אֶת־מָסַךְ הַפֶּתַח לַמִּשְׁכָּן׃

English Translation

And he set up the screen at the door of the tabernacle.

Transliteration

Vayasem et-masach hapetach lamishkan.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיָּ֛שֶׂם אֶת־מָסַ֥ךְ הַפֶּ֖תַח לַמִּשְׁכָּֽן׃
וַיָּ֛שֶׂם אֶת־מָסַ֥ךְ הַפֶּ֖תַח לַמִּשְׁכָּֽן׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Explanation of the Verse

The verse "וַיָּשֶׂם אֶת־מָסַךְ הַפֶּתַח לַמִּשְׁכָּן" (And he set up the screen at the door of the tabernacle) describes Moshe's completion of the entrance screen (masach hapetach) for the Mishkan (Tabernacle). This screen served as the entrance curtain, separating the outer courtyard from the interior of the Mishkan.

Commentary from Rashi

Rashi (Exodus 40:28) explains that this screen was the same as the one described earlier in Exodus 36:37, made of blue, purple, and scarlet wool, along with fine twisted linen, embroidered with artistic designs. He emphasizes that Moshe personally erected it, fulfilling the divine command precisely as instructed.

Significance of the Screen

  • Separation of Holiness: The masach marked the transition from the mundane to the sacred, teaching that entry into Hashem's presence requires proper preparation and reverence (based on Rambam, Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 7:20).
  • Symbol of Modesty: The Midrash (Yalkut Shimoni, Terumah 368) compares the screen to a modest barrier, reflecting the concept that holiness should not be approached casually.
  • Divine Order: The Talmud (Yoma 33a) notes that the precise placement of the screen underscores the importance of following divine instructions meticulously in avodat Hashem (service of G-d).

Kabbalistic Insight

The Zohar (Terumah 152a) interprets the screen as a metaphor for the separation between the physical and spiritual worlds. Only through proper devotion—symbolized by the colors and craftsmanship—can one "enter" into deeper divine service.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the 'screen at the door of the tabernacle' refer to in Exodus 40:28?
A: The 'screen' (מָסַךְ) refers to the curtain or covering placed at the entrance of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). According to Rashi, this screen served as a separation between the outer courtyard and the holy area, emphasizing the sanctity of the space. It was made of fine linen with blue, purple, and scarlet threads (Exodus 36:37).
Q: Why was it important to set up the screen at the entrance of the Mishkan?
A: The screen marked the boundary between the sacred and the ordinary, teaching us about the importance of approaching holiness with reverence. The Rambam explains that physical boundaries help cultivate spiritual awareness. Only those authorized (like the Kohanim) could pass beyond it, reinforcing the idea that holiness requires preparation and respect.
Q: What can we learn from the screen of the Mishkan in our daily lives?
A: The screen teaches us the value of creating boundaries—both physical and spiritual—to protect sacred spaces and moments. Just as the Mishkan had defined entry points, we set boundaries in prayer (like a designated space for davening) or Shabbat observance. The Midrash Tanchuma compares this to guarding one's speech and actions to maintain holiness.
Q: How does the concept of the Mishkan's screen apply to the synagogue today?
A: In Orthodox tradition, the synagogue is considered a 'Mikdash Me'at' (a small sanctuary). The mechitza (divider between men and women) and the parochet (ark curtain) echo the Mishkan's screen, reminding us of the sanctity of communal worship. The Talmud (Berachot 34a) emphasizes that a synagogue must maintain dignity, just as the Mishkan did.