Written by Moshe Yosef Kerendian

Shabbat Shalom and Rosh Chodesh Tov. Parshat Terumah details the intricate instructions for constructing the Mishkan (Tabernacle), which the Israelites were commanded to build in the desert as a dwelling place for the Shechinah (Divine Presence). The parsha describes the materials required—gold, silver, copper, fine linens, and precious stones—along with precise measurements and designs for the Ark of the Covenant (Aron HaBrit), the Menorah, the Altar, and other sacred vessels. Interestingly, the torah lists the exact dimensions and steps for the poles of the Aron. Why would the Aron need poles if the Gemera says that the Aron would carry itself when the jews positioned to move it. The poles aren’t even needed?! There is an interesting story that explains this idea. Rav Chaninah Ben Dosa lived in poverty, lacking the ability to bring animal offerings to the Bet Hamidash. Instead, he found a large rock which he polished for days until it was as beautiful as could be; however, he still needed to figure out a  way to transport it to Jerusalem. He saw 3 men walking down the street, these were angles in man form, and he asked them to carry it to Jerusalem and he would pay them a small payment. The men agree only on one condition, if Rav Chaninah ben Dosa would touch to rock, if not, they refused. Rav Chaninah ben Dosa agreed and once he touched the rock, him and the rock were instantly transported to Jerusalem. What can we learn from here?! Rav Chaninah ben Dosa was a very religious fellow, yet Hashem does not do mircales for people who don’t put any effort into their work. Meaning, Hashem wouldn’t have teleported the rock if Rav Chaninah ben Dosa didn’t touch it. So too by the Aron, the only way it was able to carry itself in addition to the people “carrying” it is because the Jeiwsh people put the effort to create the poles, bend down, put it on there shoulder, and as they were about to rise, the Aron would take over. We should always try and put effort in what we do and from that we will see tremendous success and even miracles. Shabbat Shalom.