The Autistic Parashah | Vayakhel
This week's Torah portion, Parashat Vayakhel, unfolds with Moses gathering the Israelite community to impart God's commandments about Shabbat and the construction of the Mishkan (the Tabernacle - a portable version of the Holy Temple that would later be built in Jerusalem). It's a powerful narrative about communal effort, leadership, and the intricate details that go into creating a sacred space for the Divine in our world. Everyone in the community, regardless of their status, comes together to contribute their skills, materials, and enthusiasm towards this holy endeavor. The parashah emphasizes collective action and unity in achieving a common spiritual goal.
In the heart of this communal endeavor stands Bezalel, appointed by God to lead the construction of the Mishkan. Bezalel is not from the tribe of Levi, the traditional tribe of leaders and priests, signaling a shift towards inclusivity and a “wild-card” in leadership roles. His detailed-oriented nature, passion for his craft, and ability to inspire others resonate deeply with the qualities often found in autistic individuals. Autistic people, much like Bezalel, bring unique perspectives, meticulous attention to detail, and intense focus on their passions. However, we often face doubts—both internally and from society—about our capabilities, especially in leadership roles.
Bezalel's story challenges these misconceptions. His leadership is not top-down; it's collaborative, fueled by joy and a profound sense of purpose. When individuals, autistic or otherwise, engage in work that aligns with their values and interests, they don't just thrive; they inspire and uplift those around them. The Talmud's portrayal of Bezalel's enthusiasm as contagious highlights how passion can galvanize a community, leading to collective achievements that reflect the Divine.
Moreover, Bezalel's supposed hesitance and the midrashic interpretations suggesting his deep connection with God hint at an alternative view of divinity and leadership. If we entertain the notion of God and, by extension, Bezalel, being autistic, we open up a profound dialogue about the strengths and unique contributions autistic humans bring to communal and spiritual life. Our detail-oriented approach, when embraced and supported, can lead to creating spaces—both physical and communal—that are more inclusive, thoughtful, and reflective of the divine mosaic that encompasses all of humanity.
In building the Mishkan, every member of the community had a role, echoing the ideal that everyone, regardless of their abilities or identity, is crucial in building a society that houses the divine. This narrative is a potent reminder of the importance of inclusivity, recognizing the value in every contribution, and ensuring that our communities are spaces where everyone can find their purpose and place.
As we reflect on Parashat Vayakhel, let us be inspired by Bezalel's story to embrace and uplift the autistic and diverse voices within our communities. Let's recognize the sacred potential in every individual and work together to build inclusive spaces where everyone can contribute, thrive, and feel connected to the divine. In doing so, we not only honor the spirit of our Parashah but also take meaningful steps towards a community that truly reflects the diverse image of God.
Shabbat Shalom.
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