The Midrash relates that when the princes of each tribe heard that Hashem wanted a Mishkan erected, they suggested to Moshe that they would supply all the necessary materials for the Mishkan. Moshe responded that Hashem would accept contributions from anyone who was willing to give. The Nesiim then decided, that rather than donate together with Klal Yisroel, they would supply whatever would be lacking. They underestimated the generosity of the Bnei Yisroel, who gave eagerly and lovingly, so that no more material was needed. The Nesiim were left excluded. Seeking to still have a part in the building of the Mishkan they donated the precious gems for the Eifod and the Choshen.
Therefore the Torah omits the letter “Yud” from the word “otab” to indicate a failure on the part of the Nesiim. Although their intentions were honorable, they were wrong to postpone the fulfillment of a mitzvah. The omission or addition of a “Yud” to a name is a very significant change. We find that Moshe added a “Yud” to Yehoshua’s name prior to his departure to scout Eretz Yisroel in order to save him from the influence of the spies. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the sin which mandated such a punishment.
Perhaps the answer may be found in Rashi‘s commentary. Rashi explains – “Since they were lazy, a letter was omitted from their name”. Although they thought their intentions were noble, in reality it was indolence that was the motivating factor for not contributing to the Mishkan. We may derive from here that often it is a person’s subconscious that really regulates his reasoning. It is therefore necessary to be aware of our feelings so that we may seek out the true motivation for our actions.
