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Exodus 27:7 - Altar's sacred transport method

Exodus 27:7 - שמות 27:7

Hebrew Text

וְהוּבָא אֶת־בַּדָּיו בַּטַּבָּעֹת וְהָיוּ הַבַּדִּים עַל־שְׁתֵּי צַלְעֹת הַמִּזְבֵּחַ בִּשְׂאֵת אֹתוֹ׃

English Translation

And the poles shall be put into the rings, and the poles shall be upon the two sides of the altar, to carry it.

Transliteration

Vehuva et-badav ba-taba'ot vehayu ha-badim al-shtei tzal'ot ha-mizbe'ach bi-se'et oto.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְהוּבָ֥א אֶת־בַּדָּ֖יו בַּטַּבָּעֹ֑ת וְהָי֣וּ הַבַּדִּ֗ים עַל־שְׁתֵּ֛י צַלְעֹ֥ת הַמִּזְבֵּ֖חַ בִּשְׂאֵ֥ת אֹתֽוֹ׃
וְהוּבָ֥א אֶת־בַּדָּ֖יו בַּטַּבָּעֹ֑ת וְהָי֣וּ הַבַּדִּ֗ים עַל־שְׁתֵּ֛י צַלְעֹ֥ת הַמִּזְבֵּ֖חַ בִּשְׂאֵ֥ת אֹתֽוֹ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Explanation of the Verse

The verse (Shemot 27:7) describes the placement of the poles (badim) into the rings (taba'ot) of the Mizbe'ach (altar) for the purpose of carrying it. This instruction is part of the detailed construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) as commanded by Hashem.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi (Shemot 27:7) explains that the poles were inserted into the rings on the sides of the Mizbe'ach and remained there permanently (tamid), unlike the poles of the Aron (Ark), which were only inserted when the Mishkan was transported. This teaches that the Mizbe'ach's poles were never removed, even when the altar was not being carried.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Beit HaBechirah (2:12), the Rambam elaborates on the practical application of this verse, stating that the poles were essential for the transportation of the Mizbe'ach during the journeys of Bnei Yisrael in the wilderness. Their permanent attachment ensured readiness for movement at all times, reflecting the constant service of Hashem.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Tanchuma, Terumah 11) connects the poles of the Mizbe'ach to the idea of unwavering dedication to divine service. Just as the poles were always in place, so too must our commitment to avodat Hashem (service of G-d) remain steadfast and unshaken.

Symbolism of the Poles

  • Stability and Mobility: The poles represent the balance between stability (permanent attachment) and mobility (readiness to move), symbolizing the Jewish people's ability to maintain their spiritual connection even in transit.
  • Unity in Service: The two poles on either side of the Mizbe'ach signify the collective effort required in divine service, as the altar could not be carried by one person alone.

Halachic Implications

The Gemara (Zevachim 59b) discusses the requirement for the poles to be made of acacia wood and overlaid with copper, as specified earlier in the parsha. This highlights the importance of adhering to precise details in the construction of sacred vessels, as each element has spiritual significance.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Zevachim 59b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the construction and carrying of the altar, specifically regarding the placement of the poles in the rings for transportation.
📖 Menachot 98a
The verse is cited in a discussion about the dimensions and structure of the altar, emphasizing the practical aspects of its design for mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the purpose of the poles mentioned in Exodus 27:7?
A: The poles were used to carry the altar (Mizbeach) during the travels of the Israelites in the wilderness. According to Rashi, the poles were inserted into rings on the sides of the altar to make it portable, ensuring the Mishkan (Tabernacle) could be moved without directly touching the holy vessels.
Q: Why were the poles always kept in the rings of the altar?
A: The Torah commands that the poles remain in the rings at all times (Exodus 27:7) to ensure the altar was always ready to be transported when needed. The Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 2:12) explains that this teaches the importance of being prepared for service to Hashem at all times.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the poles of the altar?
A: The Midrash (Tanchuma, Terumah 11) teaches that just as the altar was carried with poles to avoid direct handling, we must treat holy matters with reverence and care. This applies today in how we handle sacred objects like Torah scrolls, tefillin, and mezuzot with proper respect.
Q: How does this verse relate to the Mishkan's construction?
A: This detail is part of the broader instructions for building the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The Talmud (Yoma 72a) explains that just as the poles supported the altar, the Torah supports our lives, and we must 'carry' its teachings with us wherever we go.