Precious metals

Have you ever wondered why the Torah spends so much time talking about materials—gold, silver, copper—when describing the construction of the Tabernacle? At first glance, it might seem like ancient inventory management. But as with everything in the Torah, there’s a deeper lesson, one that speaks directly to each of us today.

Let’s break it down. Moses explains that G‑d endowed individuals with the skill to work in gold, silver, and copper to build the Tabernacle—a physical space for Divine presence. But these metals aren’t just materials; they symbolize three different types of people in their spiritual journeys.

Silver represents those people who walk through life seemingly unfazed by its challenges. They’re the ones who bring light into dark places, channeling spirituality and positivity into a world that sometimes feels chaotic. These individuals are like a steady flame, inspiring those around them through their unwavering connection to G‑d. They see the physical world not as a distraction but as a tool to reveal holiness.

For the “silver” among us, the Torah has a message: Don’t get too comfortable in your spiritual bubble. Yes, you’re shining, but your light is meant to illuminate others, even in places you might find uncomfortable or mundane. Your role is to engage with the world, to elevate it—not to escape from it.

Gold is a step up in value but not necessarily in ease. It represents those who have faced the pull of materialism and have overcome it. These are the people who’ve been through struggles, who’ve wrestled with their priorities, and who’ve come out stronger and more spiritually grounded. They know the taste of temptation and the triumph of breaking free from it.

But here’s the catch: just because you’ve “made it” doesn’t mean your job is done. The Torah reminds the “gold” among us that they still have work to do. You’ve been through the fire and emerged refined, but now it’s time to help others, to use your experience and insight to elevate the world around you. Overcoming materialism isn’t the final goal; it’s the foundation for helping others find their way.

And then there’s copper. Copper represents those of us who are still in the thick of it, wrestling with our relationship to the physical world. Maybe we feel stuck, overwhelmed by distractions, or unsure how to align our lives with our Jewish values. Copper is less glamorous than gold or silver, but don’t underestimate its worth. Copper has its place in the Tabernacle, too.

To the “copper” souls, the Torah offers encouragement: Don’t wait until you feel completely refined or perfect before you step up. You might feel like you’re struggling, but even in the struggle, you have something to contribute. The Tabernacle wasn’t built by perfect people; it was built by real people—each bringing to the table what they had. Your struggles don’t disqualify you; they make you human. And G‑d doesn’t just accept your efforts—He treasures them.

Just like the Tabernacle needed all three metals—each had a role, and together they created a space where G‑d’s presence could dwell—the same is true for us today. Our “Tabernacle” is the world we’re building together, a place where G‑d feels at home. And it takes all kinds of people to make that happen.

If you’re a “silver,” use your steady light to inspire. If you’re a “gold,” share your hard-won wisdom. And if you’re a “copper,” keep showing up—your struggles are part of the beauty. None of us can do it alone, but together, we can transform this world into a Divine sanctuary.

G‑d is counting on each of us, together and individually. We’re all builders, and every single one of us is essential. Let’s get to work.