Gold

The Ark in the Holy Temple housed the marriage document binding G‑d to His people. But who could be trusted to guard this seminal manuscript?

A synagogue can be a humble hut—but we need to demonstrate what our values are and where our priorities lie. To give honor and glory by beautifying His Holy House is one way...

Why did G‑d instruct that the lesser materials of silver and copper also be used in the Mishkan's construction? Surely pure gold would have looked much more spectacular...

Considering that gold has virtually no practical use, why is it so treasured? And why did G-d command us to use it in the construction of the Tabernacle?

For us "copper" folks, occasionally well-intentioned but dragged down by the weaknesses of the flesh... how tempting to concede in despair and leave the building of G-d's sanctuary to the spiritually successful "gold" and "silver..."!

Hospitals, retirement villages, anti-discrimination commissions, museums, and Yiddish theaters. All are worthy causes and deserving of support, yet they are not our communal priority...

Single-minded people aren't much fun. We wouldn't want to be like them -- well, maybe just a little bit...