“Where is Moshe?” Tetzaveh 

We will divide the class into four parts  

Each will take us deeper into the perasha  

1. We will begin by focusing on the power of speech and how words create spiritual realities. 

2. If in fact words create reality, how does that relate to tefilah and my words?  

3. Peeling away the top layer – Why is Moshe’s name missing ? 

4. Peeling away some more layers – What is the Tikun – the repair in Moshe’s name missing?   

Final Takeaways – What Do We Walk Away With? Through our journey in Parashat Tetzaveh, we uncovered deep layers of meaning—how words create reality, the power of tefillah, the hidden presence of Moshe, and the ultimate tikun (repair) in his name being omitted. Now, let’s bring it home. 

1. Speech is Power—Use it Wisely. 

o Our words are not just sounds; they shape the world. 

o Whether it’s Moshe’s plea (“erase me from Your book”), Yaakov’s curse, or the Spies’ negative report, we see again and again that words have real consequences. 

o We must ask: What world are we creating with our speech? Are we building or destroying? 

2. Tefillah Works—Even When We Don’t See It. 

o We learned that every prayer is heard—whether answered immediately, saved for the right time (like Moshe’s 515 prayers unlocking Esther’s salvation), or redirected in ways we don’t understand. 

o If Chizkiyahu could overturn a decree of death, and if a simple salesman’s prayer could override the nation’s needs, imagine what our tefillot can do. 

3. Hashem is Present—Even When Hidden. 

o Moshe’s absence in Tetzaveh reminds us that hidden does not mean gone. 

o Just like Hashem’s name is missing in Megillat Esther, Moshe’s name is missing here—but his presence is deeply felt. 

o In life, we don’t always see Hashem’s hand clearly, but He is guiding everything behind the scenes. 

4. Moshe’s Name Missing is Not a Punishment—It’s the Ultimate Praise. 

o We saw how Moshe was a tikun (rectification) for Noach, who remained passive during the Flood. 

o Noach accepted the decree; Moshe fought for his people, even at the cost of his own existence. 

o By omitting Moshe’s name in Tetzaveh, the Torah highlights that he wasn’t erased—he transcended self. 

5. The Greatest Legacy is to Share Torah. 

o Noach kept his knowledge to himself, but Moshe taught, led, and fought for his people. 

o Torah is meant to be given over, like olive oil that lights the Menorah. 

o What we learn, we must share. Whether through words, actions, or
inspiration, we are part of the chain. 

Bringing It into Our Lives