Tetzaveh: The Command for the Priesthood and the Eternal Light

Tetzaveh is the twentieth portion of the Torah, and its name means "You shall command." This title comes from the opening verse of the reading:

"You shall command the children of Israel to bring you pure oil of beaten olives for the light, to keep a lamp burning continually." (Exodus 27:20)

This command refers to the Menorah—the golden lampstand in the Tabernacle—which was to be kept burning at all times as a symbol of God's eternal presence among His people.

Following the instructions for the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) in the previous portion, Tetzaveh shifts its focus to the priesthood that would serve in this sacred space. God commands the Israelites to make holy garments for Aaron, the High Priest, and his sons, who were chosen to serve as priests. These garments were designed "for glory and for beauty" (Exodus 28:2) and included:
The Ephod – a richly woven vest worn over the robe, fastened with shoulder straps set with onyx stones engraved with the names of the twelve tribes.
The Breastplate of Judgment – a square piece adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing a tribe of Israel.
The Robe of the Ephod – a blue garment with golden bells and pomegranates along the hem.
The Turban (Mitznefet) – worn by the High Priest, with a gold plate inscribed "Holy to the Lord."
The Tunic, Sash, and Linen Breeches – garments for both the High Priest and the regular priests.
The portion concludes with detailed instructions for the consecration ceremony of Aaron and his sons, which involved sacrifices, anointing with oil, and a seven-day period of ordination. Through this process, they were set apart for their holy service, ensuring that Israel would have intercessors before God.
Tetzaveh highlights the sacred role of the priesthood, the importance of divine instruction, and the continual presence of God symbolized by the Menorah’s eternal flame.