With this portion, we conclude the account of the building of the Mishkan and the Book of Exodus. It is stressed repeatedly that each item was made precisely in accordance with God’s instructions. The completed parts and appurtenances of the Mishkan are brought to Moses for his inspection. He approves the work and blesses it in a manner reminiscent of the Genesis account of the completion of God’s creation. This reinforces a connection between the Mishkan and the Creation narrative which has been apparent throughout these chapters. The connection suggests that the building of the Mishkan and the implementing of God’s covenant with His people, a whole new order of history begins. This theme is further stressed by the account of the date on which the Mishkan is actually erected – the first of Nisan, New Year’s day on the new calendar of freedom.
