Special Tafkid

The Torah speaks of the special jobs of the three Leviticus families.

The Kehat family were given the task of carrying the holy vessels of the Temple. The family of Gershon were in charge of transporting the curtains of the Mishkan. And the Merari Family were tasked with loading the beams that were the foundation of the Mishkan.

It is interesting to note how it became clear that each and everyone of us, also has their own special תפקיד, or role to play in society.

The Talmud comments on this and finds it remarkable how everyone chooses such a wide variety of occupations. The end result is that society finds itself with experts in every necessary profession. This allows it to function smoothly.

The Meshech Chochma made an interesting observation about the Torah’s wording in connection with the three families from the Tribe of Levi. The work of the Kehat Family is referred to as Melacha, while the role of Gershon and Merari is referred to as Avoda.

Both Melacha and Avoda are translated to mean “work.” The Torah’s choice of words was a hint to the fact that Kehat carried the vessels on their shoulders. Carrying from one domain to another on Shabbat is called “Melacha,” and is forbidden on Shabbat.

The transporting of the curtains and beams were done by placing them on wagons. They were pulled by animals. Gershon and Merari merely directed the animals. This was Avoda on Shabbat and was considered less of a Shabbat violation than a Melacha.

Some are drawn towards choosing professions that are more spiritual than others. Nevertheless, anyone who earns his livelihood with hard work, honesty, and integrity, makes that work sanctified as well.