Parashat Shmini opens on the eighth day, the 1st of Nissan, marking the beginning of the functioning of the Mishkan. Many commentators have noted the parallels between the construction of the Mishkan and the Creation. The construction of the Mishkan lasted 7 days, and only on the eighth day did it begin to function. The eighth day symbolizes completion both physically and spiritually, as seen in the Creation, the circumcision of Jewish baby boys, and the liberation of the Nation of Israel from Egypt.