In this episode we will dive into two comments from the Degel on Parshat Tetzaveh. The Degel reads tetzaveh not only as “command,” but as tzavta — connection — teaching that the purpose of creation itself is conscious relationship: from the world, to Israel, to the tzaddik, to the Divine.

He then turns to the image of “pure olive oil, crushed for illumination.” Olive oil represents wisdom. When we speak with awareness, we can elevate the hidden sparks within even painful or constricted experiences. What feels crushed in life can become a source of light.

The goal is to raise a ner tamid, a continual lamp — symbolizing both the Shekhinah and the human soul — transforming inner darkness into steady illumination through wisdom and connection.