This week we, joined by communities around the world, will read the portion of the Torah describing G‑d’s intricate architectural design for the creation of His ‘home on earth’ – the Temple. G‑d ‘lived’ within this entire edifice, yet His presence was most palpable in the holy Ark, a box which housed the Tablets of the Ten Commandments and a Torah scroll written by the hand of Moses.
In order to transport this holy vessel, G‑d instructed the Jewish People: “construct two carrying poles . . . and insert the poles into the rings on the sides of the Ark . . . the poles should remain in the rings of the Ark and should not be removed from them” (Exodus 25:13-15).
Oddly, never removing the poles from the ark (even while the ark remained stationary for hundreds of years) is one of the 613 mitzvoth (divine commandments). And indeed for nearly 2000 years they never were removed
What is the significance or relevance of this mitzvah? What can this seemingly trivial mitzvah teach us?
The answer is both simple and profound. G‑d’s home and His presence must be transportable; we must take it with us.
While enjoying the luxurious American dream or under dire poverty, in ancient Egypt or in outer space, our homes must be one in which G‑d can ‘live comfortably’. Not remaining in the synagogue, G‑d is ‘mobile’. He dwells within our kitchen, pantry, dining room and even our bedroom. For G‑d; the ark; the Torah; our faith, is ever-present, transcending time and space.
It is this commandment that is the key to Jewish continuity. And it is this mitzvah that is the secret to our survival as a nation. Our ability to infuse G‑d within our midst. Our ability to pass this on to our children. And our commitment to never remove those two poles from the ark. No matter what. No matter where - even while on the go.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Raleigh Resnick