share torah logo

Exodus 37:6 - Golden Ark cover's divine dimensions?

Exodus 37:6 - שמות 37:6

Hebrew Text

וַיַּעַשׂ כַּפֹּרֶת זָהָב טָהוֹר אַמָּתַיִם וָחֵצִי אָרְכָּהּ וְאַמָּה וָחֵצִי רָחְבָּהּ׃

English Translation

And he made the covering of pure gold: two cubits and a half was its length, and one cubit and a half its breadth.

Transliteration

Va'ya'as kaporet zahav tahor amatayim va'chetzi arkha ve'ama va'chetzi rokha.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיַּ֥עַשׂ כַּפֹּ֖רֶת זָהָ֣ב טָה֑וֹר אַמָּתַ֤יִם וָחֵ֙צִי֙ אׇרְכָּ֔הּ וְאַמָּ֥ה וָחֵ֖צִי רׇחְבָּֽהּ׃
וַיַּ֥עַשׂ כַּפֹּ֖רֶת זָהָ֣ב טָה֑וֹר אַמָּתַ֤יִם וָחֵ֙צִי֙ אׇרְכָּ֔הּ וְאַמָּ֥ה וָחֵ֖צִי רׇחְבָּֽהּ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Dimensions of the Kapores (Covering)

The verse describes the dimensions of the Kapores, the golden cover of the Ark of the Covenant, as being two and a half cubits in length and one and a half cubits in width. Rashi (Exodus 25:17) explains that these measurements correspond precisely to the dimensions of the Ark itself, ensuring a perfect fit. The Kapores was not merely a lid but a sacred object with profound spiritual significance, representing the Divine Presence resting upon the Ark.

Symbolism of the Measurements

The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 34:2) teaches that the half-cubit measurements allude to the idea that human beings can never fully grasp the Divine wisdom contained in the Torah (symbolized by the Ark). Just as the Kapores was slightly larger than the Ark, so too does the Divine wisdom extend beyond human comprehension. The Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:45) further elaborates that the precise measurements reflect the perfection and order inherent in Divine service.

The Material: Pure Gold

The Torah emphasizes that the Kapores was made of zahav tahor (pure gold). The Talmud (Yoma 44b) notes that this gold was of the highest quality, unalloyed with other metals, symbolizing the unadulterated sanctity required in the Mishkan. The Kli Yakar (Exodus 25:17) adds that the purity of the gold reflects the purity of heart needed when seeking atonement, as the Kapores was the place where the Kohen Gadol would sprinkle the blood on Yom Kippur.

The Relationship Between the Kapores and the Keruvim

  • The Kapores was not complete without the two golden Keruvim (cherubim) fashioned upon it (Exodus 25:18). The Talmud (Sukkah 5b) teaches that the Keruvim symbolized the relationship between Hashem and Klal Yisrael.
  • Rashi (Exodus 25:18) notes that the faces of the Keruvim were like those of children, representing innocence and purity.
  • The Ramban (Exodus 25:18) explains that the Keruvim faced one another when Bnei Yisrael were in Hashem's favor, but turned away during times of estrangement.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 72a
The verse is discussed in relation to the dimensions of the Ark's cover (kaporet) and its significance in the Temple service.
📖 Menachot 98b
The dimensions of the kaporet are mentioned in a discussion about the measurements of various Temple vessels and their symbolic meanings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the 'kaporet' (covering) mentioned in Exodus 37:6?
A: The 'kaporet' (כַּפֹּרֶת) was the golden cover of the Ark of the Covenant in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). According to Rashi, it was called 'kaporet' because it served as a means of atonement (from the root 'k-p-r,' meaning to atone). The two golden cherubim were placed on top of it (Exodus 25:18-20).
Q: Why were the specific measurements of the kaporet important?
A: The precise measurements (2.5 cubits long and 1.5 cubits wide) matched the exact dimensions of the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:10). The Rambam explains that every detail in the Mishkan had spiritual significance, teaching us the importance of precision in serving Hashem and following His commandments meticulously.
Q: Why was the kaporet made of pure gold?
A: Pure gold (זָהָב טָהוֹר) symbolizes purity and holiness. The Midrash teaches that gold represents the highest level of devotion to Hashem, as it does not tarnish. Since the kaporet was part of the holiest vessel in the Mishkan, it had to be made of the finest material to reflect its sacred purpose.
Q: What can we learn from the kaporet today?
A: The kaporet teaches us about the importance of atonement and closeness to Hashem. Just as the kaporet covered the Ark (which held the Torah), we should 'cover' and protect the Torah in our lives through repentance and good deeds. The Talmud (Yoma 54b) also teaches that the cherubim on the kaporet symbolized the loving relationship between Hashem and the Jewish people.