(2011/5771)

Parashat Pekudei begins by describing how the different materials donated for the Mishkan were used. This section appears to interrupt between the sections of the construction of the Mishkan and the fashioning of the garments of the Kohanim. Rav Moshe Feinstein, in his Sefer Darash Moshe, explains that this teaches us a profound life lesson. Just as the artisans had to account for the use of every material that was donated for the building of the Mishkan and its furnishings, we too must be able to give an accounting for all wealth and abilities with which Hashem has blessed us.

Just as one should give Ma’aseir from his money, he should give it from his time. There is a story told about a person who Rav Moshe met in the street on his way to attend a wedding. Rav Moshe stopped and spoke to the man at length before going to the wedding. When the driver asked Rav Moshe, who was in a hurry, why he didn’t just say that he could not talk, Rav Moshe responded, “My talking to this man and spending time with him is like giving money to a poor man, as it shows that he is important in my eyes.” We must devote our time to doing as many Mitzvot as possible.

This also applies to our money and possessions. Not only must we use them for Tzedakah and Gemilat Chesed, but we must use them wisely and productively. Each of us will be called to give a Din VeCheshbon, an accounting, as to whether we utilized all of the abilities and talents that Hashem has granted us to fulfill His will. Rav Moshe is quoted as saying, “Many people are careful to eat only Glatt Kosher meat, but are they buying it with Glatt Kosher money?” The Gemara in Shabbat (31a) lists six questions that we will be asked on our judgment day. The first question (as it appears in our Gemara) is “Did you deal honestly in business?” May we be Zocheh to always deal honestly and use the money we earn for good purposes as we do the will of Hashem.