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After experiencing 210 years of brutal slavery in Mitzrayim,
the Jews, as part of the redemption, witness a series of incredible miracles. The Ten Makkot, each in their own way, were breaks from the natural order. Everyone witnessed the Yad Hashem throughout the process. This process culminated with the ultimate miracle, Kriat Yam Suf, an event which the midrash writes was heard by all mankind. It is recorded in the Mechilta that even a lowly maidservant experienced prophecy on a level that Yechezkel HaNavi did not achieve. In fact, this was one of the events which led Yitro to leave his priesthood and recognize Hashem. All were inspired by the events in the first several Parshiot of the Sefer.
The Torah then describes, in Parashat Yitro, the scene of the Jews receiving the Torah at Har Sinai. There were awe inspiring sights and sounds. The supernatural occurred again. The Torah describes the Jews hearing the thunder and seeing lightning. It was an experience unlike any other. Another inspiring and enlightening event that broke the laws of nature.
The Torah then shifts gears. The inspiring and exhilarating experiences recorded turn to an extremely detailed and technical discussion about the construction of the Mishkan. Why the sudden shift? How did we move from a world of miracles, inspiration, and awe to the seemingly mundane, technical and detailed instruction of the construction of the Mishkan?
Positive feelings are enjoyable. Being inspired is one of the many positive feelings of the human experience. We feel alive, activated and energized and it is what enables us to build and create. Yet while there is great joy in these emotions, the feelings themselves are just that, feelings. Our world however, is one of action. This often requires hard work, persistence, and attention to detail.
Perhaps the Torah’s shift from inspiration to perspiration is a message that while good feelings and
inspiration are critical components of our lives, they are ideally to be used as a springboard for action, rather than a hammock for our comfort. The inspiration is a means to an end. Feelings “come and go” but the Mitzvot that we engage in, many of which are through hard work and dedication is what binds us to Hashem. While the Torah’s commandments of the construction of the Mishkan is rather detailed, Hashem is reminding us that this world is one of human action and perseverance and not just of good feeling.