Parsha Tetzaveh
Parsha Tetzaveh תְּצַוֶּה is translated as “you shall command”. It’s the twentyth Torah reading in the annual reading cycle and eighth in sefer Shemot, the book of Exodus. I found four different spellings – “Tetzaveh”, “Tetsaveh”, “T’tzaveh”, or “T’tzavveh”.
Parsha Tetzaveh Summary
Parsha Tetzaveh begins with the command for the children of Israel to bring pure olive oil for the menorah (candlestand).
Aaron and his sons are set apart as the kohanim (priests). The instruction for their garments is described. It begins with the ephod, breastplate of judgement, a blue robe, plate of gold attached to a turban, a tunic and linen under garments.
Next, the instructions to consecrate Aaron and his sons as the kohanim is detailed.
Finally, the details for the construction of the incense altar are provided. Aaron’s daily role with the altar of incense and menorah are given. Aaron’s annual atonement ritual is mentioned and closes this parsha.
Tetzaveh תְּצַוֶּה is the second word and in the Hebrew text (see text below).