Vayak'hel: Chapter 40

The incense

Synopsis

In this passage Rabbi Yosi tells of the great power of incense to break evil inclinations, to banish sorcery, and to protect us from the Other Side. It is as miraculous as the golden plate. Furthermore, whoever reads and studies intently the section on the preparation of the incense is protected. When the smoke of the incense went up like a pillar the priest saw the letters of the Holy Name soaring in the air and going up like a pillar; afterwards many Chariots circled it on all sides. It creates unity above and below, atoning for sin and idolatry.