The third section of the Chumash / Book of Numbers begins as G-d tells Moses to instruct Aaron how to kindle (Beha’alotecha in Hebrew) the lamps of the Tabernacle’s Candelabrum. It continues with the final preparations made as the Jewish people departed from Mount Sinai.
(G-d told Moses,) “Speak to Aaron, telling him, ‘When you kindle the lamps….” (8:2)
As King Solomon writes, “The lamp of G-d is the human soul,” The flame of a candle constantly flickers upwards, as if yearning to leave the wick behind and ascend heavenward. The soul shares this nature, constantly striving to reconnect with its spiritual source by breaking free of the boundaries of time and space imposed on it by the body and the physical world.
At times, however, this nature becomes dormant; the soul is blinded by its surroundings that it forgets its natural thirst for Divinity. This is why every morning – after every period of spiritual darkness – our soul- lamps must be rekindled. They must be reminded of their innate desire to ascend. Whether your own or another’s soul with whom we come into contact, if we see that its flame is lacking, it is our privilege and challenge to re-kindle it.
With our continued prayers for the IDF, peace in Israel, and for all across the diaspora, with Moshiach now.
Wishing you a meaningful Shabbat and successful week to follow.