The Torah emphasizes Moshe’s direct involvement in three tasks: obtaining oil for the menorah, appointment of the Kohen Gadol, and preparation of the bigdei kehunah, priestly vestments. In all other instances which relate to building the Mishkan and its various appurtenances, the words uagu, ,hagu, or vag,, are used. This phrase implies Klal Yisrael’s collective involvement. What distinguishes these three obligations that renders Moshe’s involvement essential? Horav Elchanan Sorotzkin z.l. posits that each of these three tasks require the direct supervision of the gadol ha’dor, prememinent Torah leader of the generation. He explains this in the following manner. The oil…
