Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'I will set my tabernacle among you' mean in Leviticus 26:11?
A: This verse means that Hashem promises to dwell among the Jewish people, as Rashi explains, referring to the Mishkan (Tabernacle) or later the Beit HaMikdash (Temple) where the Divine Presence would reside. It signifies a close relationship between Hashem and Israel when they follow His commandments.
Q: Why is Leviticus 26:11 important in Judaism?
A: This verse is important because it highlights the special bond between Hashem and the Jewish people. The Rambam teaches that the Divine Presence dwells among Israel when they live according to Torah values. It's a foundational promise of closeness and protection when we uphold our covenant with Hashem.
Q: What does 'my soul shall not abhor you' mean in this verse?
A: As explained in the Midrash (Torat Kohanim), this means that even when Israel sins, Hashem's essential love for His people remains. Unlike human relationships that can turn to disgust, Hashem's connection with Israel is eternal, though sins may temporarily affect the closeness of that relationship.
Q: How does Leviticus 26:11 apply to Jewish life today?
A: The Talmud (Megillah 29a) teaches that even after the Temple's destruction, the Divine Presence dwells in synagogues and study halls. This verse reminds us that through Torah study, prayer, and mitzvot, we can still experience Hashem's presence in our communities and personal lives.
Q: What is the connection between this verse and the Jewish home?
A: The Sages derive from this verse that every Jewish home can be a 'mikdash me'at' (small sanctuary). By creating a home filled with Torah values, Shabbat observance, and acts of kindness, we make a dwelling place for the Divine Presence, as the verse promises.
Verse Context (Vayikra 26:11)
This verse appears in the Torah portion of Bechukotai (Vayikra 26:3-46), where Hashem outlines the blessings for observing His commandments and the consequences for neglecting them. The promise of "I will set My tabernacle among you" follows the description of material blessings, indicating a deeper spiritual reward for faithfulness.
Meaning of "Mishkani" (My Tabernacle)
Rashi explains that "מִשְׁכָּנִי" refers to the Shechinah (Divine Presence) dwelling among Bnei Yisrael. This is not merely a physical structure but a manifestation of Hashem's closeness to His people when they follow His ways. The Sforno adds that this promise was initially fulfilled with the Mishkan in the wilderness and later with the Beit HaMikdash in Yerushalayim.
"My Soul Shall Not Abhor You"
The second half of the verse assures that even when Bnei Yisrael stumble, Hashem will not utterly reject them. The Ramban notes that this reflects the eternal covenant between Hashem and His people—while there may be consequences for sin, the relationship is never fully severed. The term "תִגְעַל" (abhor) is strong language, emphasizing that despite human failings, divine rejection is not absolute.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic and Philosophical Implications
The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 7:6) derives from this verse that sincere repentance will always be accepted, as Hashem's presence remains accessible to those who return to Him. The Kli Yakar emphasizes that the indwelling of the Shechinah is tied to Torah study and mitzvah observance, making them the foundation of divine closeness.