The story of Bezalel, the architect of the Mishkan, the Tabernacle, gives us a glimpse.
It's a fascinating tale. Even though God Himself knew that Bezalel was absolutely the right person to build the Tabernacle, He still turned to Moses and asked, "Do you think Bezalel is up to the task?" Think about that for a moment. The all-knowing God, seemingly seeking validation.
Moses, of course, responded with complete faith: "Lord of the Universe! If You deem him suitable, then surely, I do too!" But the story doesn't end there. God, in his infinite wisdom, then instructs Moses to ask the people of Israel for their opinion! "Go," God says, "and ask Israel if they approve My choice of Bezalel."
Can you imagine? Moses goes to the people, and they respond with resounding agreement: "If Bezalel is judged good enough by God and by you, assuredly he is approved by us." It's a beautiful moment of shared faith and communal trust. This story, found in Legends of the Jews, highlights not just Bezalel's skill, but the importance of collective approval and the interconnectedness of the divine, the leader, and the community.
But the story goes deeper. As the builder of the Tabernacle, God bestowed upon Bezalel five additional names, each reflecting an aspect of his character and accomplishment. These aren't just arbitrary titles; they are insights into his very essence.
First, he was called Reaiah, meaning "to behold." This is because, as Legends of the Jews tells us, Bezalel was "beheld by God, by Moses, and by Israel, as the one who had been decreed for his activity since the beginning of the world.” He was destined, chosen, and seen.
Next, he was named "the son of Shobal," because he erected the Tabernacle that towered high, like a dove-cote. The image evokes a sense of soaring heights and divine protection.
He was also called Jahath, "the Trembler," because he made the sanctuary, the seat of the fear of God. That sense of awe and reverence, so central to the sanctuary, was embodied in Bezalel's very being.
Another name was Ahamai, because, through his work, the sanctuary, Israel, and God were united. His craftsmanship wasn't just about physical construction; it was about forging a spiritual bond.
And finally, he was called Lahad, as the one who brought splendor and loftiness to Israel, for the sanctuary is the pride and splendor of Israel. He brought beauty and elevated the spirit of the entire nation. What a legacy!
So, what do we take away from the story of Bezalel? It's more than just a historical account. It's a reminder that true creation is a collaborative process, involving divine inspiration, leadership, and communal support. And it teaches us that the work we do, when done with intention and devotion, can have profound and lasting effects, uniting us with something larger than ourselves.