The Autistic Parashah | Vayakhel
by Matthew Lawrence
This week's Torah portion, Parashat Vayakhel, unfolds with Moses gathering the Israelite community to impart God's commandments about Shabbat and the construction of the Mishkan (the Tabernacle - a portable version of the Holy Temple that would later be built in Jerusalem). It's a powerful narrative about communal effort, leadership, and the intricate details that go into creating a sacred space for the Divine in our world. Everyone in the community, regardless of their status, comes together to contribute their skills, materials, and enthusiasm towards this holy endeavor. The parashah emphasizes collective action and unity in achieving a common spiritual goal.
In the heart of this communal endeavor stands Bezalel, appointed by God to lead the construction of the Mishkan. Bezalel is not from the tribe of Levi, the traditional tribe of leaders and priests, signaling a shift towards inclusivity and a “wild-card” in leadership roles. His detailed-oriented nature, passion for his craft, and ability to inspire others resonate deeply with the qualities often found in autistic individuals. Autistic people, much like Bezalel, bring unique perspectives, meticulous attention to detail, and intense focus on their passions. However, we often face doubts—both internally and from society—about our capabilities, especially in leadership roles.
Bezalel's story challenges these misconceptions. His leadership is not top-down; it's collaborative, fueled by joy and a profound sense of purpose. When individuals, autistic or otherwise, engage in work that aligns with their values and interests, they don't just thrive; they inspire and uplift those around them. The Talmud's portrayal of Bezalel's enthusiasm as contagious highlights how passion can galvanize a community, leading to collective achievements that reflect the Divine.
Moreover, Bezalel's supposed hesitance and the midrashic interpretations suggesting his deep connection with God hint at an alternative view of divinity and leadership. If we entertain the notion of God and, by extension, Bezalel, being autistic, we open up a profound dialogue about the strengths and unique contributions autistic humans bring to communal and spiritual life. Our detail-oriented approach, when embraced and supported, can lead to creating spaces—both physical and communal—that are more inclusive, thoughtful, and reflective of the divine mosaic that encompasses all of humanity.
In building the Mishkan, every member of the community had a role, echoing the ideal that everyone, regardless of their abilities or identity, is crucial in building a society that houses the divine. This narrative is a potent reminder of the importance of inclusivity, recognizing the value in every contribution, and ensuring that our communities are spaces where everyone can find their purpose and place.
As we reflect on Parashat Vayakhel, let us be inspired by Bezalel's story to embrace and uplift the autistic and diverse voices within our communities. Let's recognize the sacred potential in every individual and work together to build inclusive spaces where everyone can contribute, thrive, and feel connected to the divine. In doing so, we not only honor the spirit of our Parashah but also take meaningful steps towards a community that truly reflects the diverse image of God.
Matthew is an autistic advocate, educator, coach, guide, and mentor based in Paris who is on a lifelong journey to champion the rights and empowerment of autistic people via a uniquely Jewish lens.
Navigating the world as a disabled AuDHD (Autism-ADHD) person, he learned to appreciate his authentic self amidst societal pressures to conform both within and outside of the Jewish community. Matthew’s education in both academia and the yeshiva world enriched his love for Judaism, while his experiences living, learning, and teaching in diverse communities across the globe, both Jewish and non-Jewish, have enriched his spiritual connection and understanding of both Yiddishkeit and the greater world.
Crucially, Matthew's life's work centers on autism rights, disability rights, and the Neurodiversity movement, and he actively volunteers in these areas in addition to his professional work in and out of the Jewish community. As an experienced educator, life coach, mentor, and guide, he empowers autistic individuals with vitality, resilience, and the tools to navigate the challenges of Autistic Burnout.
With a spiritual dimension drawn from the rich traditions of Judaism and deep respect for other spiritual paths, Matthew integrates these facets into his coaching style. His work with the greater disability community and worldview is heavily influenced and inspired by the Jewish tradition, and in particular by the Kotzker Rebbe, Simcha Bunim of Peshischa, Abraham Joshua Herschel and Reb Zalman. He envisions a world where autistic people not only survive, but flourish, and works daily to achieve it.
Matthew proudly serves as both a member and organizer within self-advocacy organizations, specifically CLE Autistes and the Jewish Autism Network. Within the Jewish Autism Network, he takes on the role of host and moderator of a free discussion and support group, offering autistic individuals in the Jewish community a safe and supportive space to grow and connect.
You can read more about Matthew and his work at theautisticcoach.com or follow him on Twitter, Bluesky, Mastodon, Facebook, or Instagram.