share torah logo

Exodus 37:27 - Golden rings for holy transport

Exodus 37:27 - שמות 37:27

Hebrew Text

וּשְׁתֵּי טַבְּעֹת זָהָב עָשָׂה־לוֹ מִתַּחַת לְזֵרוֹ עַל שְׁתֵּי צַלְעֹתָיו עַל שְׁנֵי צִדָּיו לְבָתִּים לְבַדִּים לָשֵׂאת אֹתוֹ בָּהֶם׃

English Translation

And he made two rings of gold for it under its crown, by its two corners, upon its two sides, to be places for the poles with which to bear it.

Transliteration

U-shtey tab'ot zahav asah-lo mitachat le-zaro al shtey tzal'otav al shney tzidav le-vatim le-vadim la-set oto bahem.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּשְׁתֵּי֩ טַבְּעֹ֨ת זָהָ֜ב עָֽשָׂה־ל֣וֹ&thinsp
וּשְׁתֵּי֩ טַבְּעֹ֨ת זָהָ֜ב עָֽשָׂה־ל֣וֹ&thinsp

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Exodus 37:27) describes the construction of the golden altar (מִזְבַּח הַזָּהָב) used for incense offerings in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The rings and poles were essential for transporting the altar during the Israelites' journeys in the wilderness.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi (Exodus 37:27) explains that the two golden rings were placed "under its crown" (מִתַּחַת לְזֵרוֹ), meaning beneath the decorative molding (זֵר) that encircled the top of the altar. These rings were positioned on opposite sides ("עַל שְׁתֵּי צַלְעֹתָיו") to hold the carrying poles ("בַּדִּים"). Rashi emphasizes that the rings were not attached to the altar's base but slightly higher, ensuring stability during transport.

Rambam's Explanation

In Hilchot Klei HaMikdash (1:12), the Rambam (Maimonides) notes that all vessels of the Mishkan with carrying poles—including the Ark, Table, and Incense Altar—had rings fixed to their sides. The poles were never removed ("לֹא יָסוּרוּ מִמֶּנּוּ"), as derived from Exodus 25:15. This design ensured the sanctity of the vessels was preserved, as they were always ready for transport in a dignified manner.

Symbolism of the Rings and Poles

  • Dual Rings: The Kli Yakar (R' Shlomo Ephraim Luntschitz) suggests the two rings symbolize the dual nature of service to Hashem: action (מַעֲשֶׂה) and intent (כַּוָּנָה). Just as the poles balanced the altar, our mitzvot require both proper deeds and sincere devotion.
  • Golden Material: The Or HaChaim (R' Chaim ibn Attar) highlights that the rings were made of gold—like the altar itself—to teach that even the "supports" of divine service (e.g., community leaders who facilitate worship) must be of elevated character.

Practical Halachic Insights

The Mishneh LaMelech (R' Yehuda Rosanes) discusses why the Torah specifies the rings' placement ("עַל שְׁנֵי צִדָּיו"). Unlike the Ark’s rings, which were attached to its feet (Exodus 25:12), the incense altar’s rings were higher to prevent the poles from interfering with the priest’s service when the altar was stationary.

Midrashic Interpretation

The Midrash Tanchuma (Terumah 11) connects the altar’s transport system to the Jewish people’s role as bearers of Torah: just as the poles allowed the altar to be carried without direct handling, the Torah is sustained through those who dedicate themselves to its study and transmission.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is being described in Exodus 37:27?
A: This verse describes the golden rings made for the sides of the golden altar (Mizbe'ach HaZahav) in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). These rings held the poles used to carry the altar during travel, as Rashi explains they were placed opposite each other on the altar's corners.
Q: Why were golden rings attached to the altar?
A: The golden rings and poles allowed the Kohanim (priests) to transport the altar without directly touching it, maintaining its sanctity. The Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 2:8) explains this was part of the careful handling required for all sacred vessels in the Mishkan.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the altar's carrying rings?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 72a) derives from this that holy objects must be treated with reverence. Just as the altar needed special carrying rings, we learn that Torah and mitzvot require proper vessels (worthy people) to 'carry' and transmit them properly in each generation.