Parshat Vayakhel–Pikudei coincides this year with Shabbat HaChodesh. Together, these readings highlight themes of renewal and repair.

The book of Shemot ends with a description of the kelim (vessels) used in the mishkan. The final object is the kiyor (basin), from which Moshe and Aaron are commanded to wash their hands and feet. This practice – referred to by the rabbis as “kedushat yadayim ve’raglayim,” sanctifying of hands and feet – was also done by kohanim each morning in Temple times as they prepared for their service. 

Some halachic authorities view this as the source of the mitzvah for all individuals to wash hands (netilat yadayim) every morning upon waking. Some of the holiness which was once only accessible by the kohanim in the mikdash, can be attained by all individuals, anywhere. This is also expressed by Talmud Berakhot which teaches that when a person washes hands and then prays, it is as though s/he has built an altar and made an offering to God. The small, physical ritual of washing hands daily can influence our inner state of being. The Kitzur Shulchan Aruch explains that each morning we are considered like a “new creation.” Every day carries fresh potential for holiness, renewal, and repair.

Similarly, the mitzvah to sanctify the new moon of Nisan—read on Shabbat HaChodesh—expresses this same possibility. “This month shall be for you…” The Mei HaShiloach explains: “The power of the month will be for you—that you should be able to renew yourselves in Torah and in action.” Many commentaries note the linguistic connection between chodesh (month) and hitchadshut (renewal), pointing to the Jewish people’s enduring capacity to begin again.

The gradual renewal of the moon’s light and handwashing at the beginning of each new day highlights that small steps – individually, communally and nationally – have the potential for renewal and repair. Shabbat Shalom -Karen Miller Jackson