The gift of generosity

In Parshat Teruma we learn about the contributions that were needed for the Mishkan (Tabernacle):

The parsha opens with the following words (Shmot 25:1-2):

God spoke to Moshe saying: Tell B’nai Yisrael “Vayikchu li Teruma” bring Me gifts; you shall accept gifts for Me from every person whose heart is so moved.

According to Sfrorno:

God is saying: “Tell B’nai Yisrael that I would like the gabbaim to collect a contribution for Me.”

Why do we need a third party to do the collecting?

The Malbim explains that this was a voluntary contribution and not an obligation:

It doesn’t say “Give me gifts” because that would be a positive mitzvah and an obligation to give. God wanted this Teruma to be from their generous hearts and from free will, not through any sort of obligation. Therefore gabbaim were chosen to collect from whoever was interested in giving.

Rav Shimshon Rephael Hirsch explains:

The Teruma contributions for the Mishkan, were not obligatory for individuals, rather they were the total gifts from the community as a whole.

In Parshat Vayakhel (Shmot 36:6) we see that B’nai Yisrael brought more than enough and Moshe told them that they should stop contributing:

Moshe commanded that they proclaim throughout the camp, saying, “Man and woman shall do no more work toward the gift for the Sanctuary!” And the people were restrained from bringing.

This reminds me of the generous gifts that have been contributed since the beginning of the war for the soldiers and the displaced families. Israelis as well as those who live abroad have been tirelessly sending contributions as well as suitcases and duffle bags full of supplies.

May the time come when everyone can go home safe and sound and we can tell those who would like to contribute that their donations are no longer necessary.