share torah logo

Exodus 37:14 - Ark's rings: Divine service symbolism?

Exodus 37:14 - שמות 37:14

Hebrew Text

לְעֻמַּת הַמִּסְגֶּרֶת הָיוּ הַטַּבָּעֹת בָּתִּים לַבַּדִּים לָשֵׂאת אֶת־הַשֻּׁלְחָן׃

English Translation

Over against the border were the rings, the places for the poles to bear the table.

Transliteration

Le'umat hammisgeret hayu hatta'ba'ot batim labaddim laset et-hashulchan.

Hebrew Leining Text

לְעֻמַּת֙ הַמִּסְגֶּ֔רֶת הָי֖וּ הַטַּבָּעֹ֑ת בָּתִּים֙ לַבַּדִּ֔ים לָשֵׂ֖את אֶת־הַשֻּׁלְחָֽן׃
לְעֻמַּת֙ הַמִּסְגֶּ֔רֶת הָי֖וּ הַטַּבָּעֹ֑ת בָּתִּים֙ לַבַּדִּ֔ים לָשֵׂ֖את אֶת־הַשֻּׁלְחָֽן׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context in the Mishkan

The verse (Shemot 37:14) describes the construction of the Shulchan (Table) in the Mishkan, specifically detailing the placement of the rings (taba'ot) that held the poles (badim) used to carry the Table. This was part of the Divine command to Moshe regarding the Mishkan's vessels (Shemot 25:23-30).

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (ad loc.) clarifies that the rings were positioned "le'umat hamisgeret"—"opposite the frame," meaning they were attached to the Table's legs near the border (misgeret). He emphasizes that the rings were not part of the Table's decorative design but functional, serving as housings (batim) for the poles to facilitate transport.

Structural Purpose

The Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 3:14) notes that all vessels of the Mishkan had designated carrying poles, underscoring the importance of portability. The Table's rings and poles ensured it could be transported without direct handling, preserving its sanctity. The term "batim" (housings) implies the rings were securely fastened to prevent the poles from slipping during travel.

Symbolism of the Shulchan

The Midrash (Tanchuma, Terumah 9) connects the Shulchan to divine sustenance, representing material prosperity granted by Hashem. The careful design of its carrying mechanism teaches that even physical blessings must be treated with reverence and handled in a manner befitting holiness.

Halachic Precision

The Talmud (Menachot 96b) derives from this verse that the poles of the Shulchan were never removed, unlike those of the Aron. This reflects a halachic distinction between vessels: some required constant readiness for transport (like the Table, symbolizing ongoing divine provision), while others had unique sanctity (like the Aron).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the meaning of Exodus 37:14 in the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle)?
A: Exodus 37:14 describes the rings and poles attached to the Shulchan (Table of Showbread) in the Mishkan. These rings held the poles used to carry the table during travel. Rashi explains that the rings were placed opposite ('לעומת') the frame to ensure the table could be transported securely without touching the holy items directly.
Q: Why were the rings and poles important for the Shulchan (Table of Showbread)?
A: The rings and poles were essential because the Kohanim (priests) needed to transport the Shulchan when the Israelites journeyed through the desert. The Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 2:5) teaches that these fixtures ensured the table remained holy and undisturbed, as it held the 12 loaves of showbread, a sacred offering to Hashem.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the design of the Shulchan's carrying system?
A: The careful design teaches the importance of treating holy objects with respect. The Talmud (Menachot 96a) notes that the poles were never removed, symbolizing that the Shulchan was always ready for service. This reminds us to approach mitzvot and sacred items with proper reverence and preparedness.
Q: How does the description of the Shulchan apply to Jewish life today?
A: Just as the Shulchan was carried carefully, we learn to handle Torah and mitzvot with dedication. The Midrash (Tanchuma Terumah 11) compares the Shulchan to sustenance—both physical (bread) and spiritual (Torah). Today, we must 'carry' our traditions with the same care, ensuring they are preserved for future generations.