In the second section of the Book of Numbers, the portion begins with G-d’s instruction to Moses to complete his count of the Levites.

G-d says to Moses, “Take a census of the clan of Gershon.”

There are two steps in preparing ones home for an esteemed guest.

First, the rooms are scrubbed clean; then they are decorated with beautiful furnishings and works of art. The same two steps apply to how we make our lives and ourselves into a home for G-d. First, we rid ourselves anything that may be negative and undesirable and then we do what is good and right.

The clan of Gershon carried the outer coverings of the Tabernacle, which protected it from undesirable elements. This corresponds to our job of avoiding harmful activities and influences. The clan of Kehat, on the other hand carried the furnishings of the Tabernacle, each of which represents a particular positive attribute and activity.

Just as Gershon was born before Kehat, it is necessary to first cleanse oneself of negative behaviour in order to be able to properly pursue good. Nonetheless, the clan of Kehat was counted before that of Gershon, since cleansing oneself of negativity is only a preparation for the true work: of pursuing good.

This will be week 12 of our lockdown, we wish you a successful week followed by meaningful and peaceful Shabbat.