The Midrash takes note of the various “partnerships” involved in the making of both the Mishkan and the Bais Hamikdash. Regarding the Mishkan it is stated that Betzalel of the tribe of Yehudah and Ahaliav of the tribe of Dan were the ones who spearheaded the work. The Bais Hamikdash was also built by individuals who descended from these respective tribes, such as Shlomo Hamelech of the tribe of Yehudah and the son of a widow from the tribe of Dan. The Midrash points out the significance of using an artisan who was a member of he tribe of Yehudah which was the most exalted tribe, and a member of the tribe of Dan, the lowliest tribe. By placing them together, Hashem taught Bnei Yisrael never to look with disdain upon one whose origins are not noble, for in the eyes of Hashem the great and the small have equal stature. A less gifted person who serves Hashem with all of his capabilities ranks equal to one who is more gifted, for Hashem judges a man in accordance with the intentions of his heart.
The Midrash, however seems to emphasize the uniqueness of the “copartnership” which contributed to the Mishkan’s construction. What was so exceptional about Betzalel’s collaboration with Ahaliav? Horav Chaim Zaitchik Z”l derives from here that the ultimate test of an individual’s qualification to assume and maintain leadership over a community or to spearhead a given project is his capacity to accept assistance and advice from others. A leader must possess the ability to overcome any paranoia and envy associated with sharing the limelight with others. Hashem appointed members of two different tribes to collaborate on the construction of the Mishkan in order to discern whether their goals were solely for the sake of Heaven. There are individuals who, despite their total devotion to a given community service project, must be the only ones who are “in charge.” They must maintain control over every facet of an activity. Such people are never able to delegate authority to others, feeling this would diminish their own prestige. Betzalel was different. His willingness to collaborate with Ahaliav, a member of the lowliest tribe, illustrated his pure intentions in building the Mishkan, thereby revealing his worthiness to be the prime artisan in its creation.
