Learn from Congregation B’nai Chaim

This week’s Torah reading, Tetzaveh, speaks about the garments of the priests who served in the mishkan, or tabernacle. Gold, blue, purple, red and gemstones adorned the priests – all garments as created by the most talented artisans of the ancient Israelite community. The instructions regarding the design of these outfits were very specific and not much was left for a designer to improvise on. The garments were quite elaborate, and much of the design seemed to be more of what we would imagine to be royal than religious with the precious materials used, including golden headwear. During this festive time of year, the modern Jewish community is abuzz with the planning and designing of outfits, too. We are making fun costumes for Purim, meaning “Lots,” a festival celebrating fr