Parashat Terumah (Exodus 25:1–27:19) details God’s instructions to Moses for building the Mishkan, the portable Tabernacle, as a sacred space where divine presence could dwell among the Israelites.

It begins with a call for voluntary contributions—”terumah“—from each person “whose heart moves him,” gathering precious materials like gold, silver, fine fabrics, and stones to create this holy dwelling. The detailed blueprints emphasize precision, beauty, and intentionality in constructing a place for God to reside “among them” (Exodus 25:8).

In modern life, this portion powerfully reminds us that God desires to dwell not just in grand structures, but within our everyday lives and communities. Just as the Israelites were invited to give freely from what they had—without compulsion—we’re called to offer our own “terumah“: our time, talents, resources, and heartfelt generosity to build spaces (whether homes, congregations, workplaces, or personal habits) where God’s presence can be felt.

In a busy, materialistic world, Terumah challenges us to prioritize creating environments of holiness through intentional acts of kindness, ethical living, and joyful service, recognizing that when we contribute willingly “from the heart,” we invite God’s nearness into our relationships and routines.

Moreover, the emphasis on following the divine pattern (“as I show you,” Exodus 25:9) encourages us to align our lives with higher principles rather than fleeting trends. 

Today, this can mean cultivating inner sanctity—making our bodies and minds “temples” through prayer, integrity, and mindfulness—while also supporting communal efforts like charity, justice initiatives, or spiritual gatherings. 

Ultimately, Terumah teaches that God’s dwelling isn’t confined to the past or a distant sanctuary; it’s realized whenever we open our hearts and resources to make room for the divine in the here and now, transforming ordinary moments into encounters with the eternal.