שמות, פרק ל״ה, פסוק כ״ח

The donations for the Tabernacle went beyond structural materials, extending to rare and precious liquids and fragrances required for the most sacred inner services. In the harsh desert environment, these items were extremely valuable and difficult to find [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The collection included a wide assortment of different spices [קאסוטו]. Finding pure, high-quality olive oil was particularly challenging in the wilderness. To solve this, the Israelites purchased raw olives from nomadic tribes living in desert oases. They carefully pressed the olives themselves to guarantee the oil's absolute purity and fitness for sacred use. Even so, it remains a marvel how they ensured these olives were harvested specifically from the treetops, a strict requirement for producing the finest quality oil [ברכת אשר על התורה].

This carefully prepared oil served two primary functions. First, it provided light. The very act of kindling a physical light within the Tabernacle raises a philosophical question about whether God truly needs physical illumination [שפתי כהן]. Second, a precise measure of this oil—exactly one "hin"—was set aside to serve as the anointing oil [רשב״ם]. This special oil was used to sanctify the Tabernacle and all its vessels, carrying a deep symbolism of greatness and distinction, as it was the same anointing used to elevate High Priests and kings [בכור שור].

The sequence in which these materials were donated highlights the deep commitment of the tribal leaders. Although regular oil was widely available, the leaders insisted on personally supplying the exact measure required for the sacred anointing oil, ensuring they were the ones to provide it [העמק דבר]. Finally, the remaining fragrant materials were dedicated to the holy incense. This special blend was burned upon the golden altar, positioned deep within the inner chambers of the Tabernacle [בכור שור].