שמות, פרק ל״ז, פסוק ה׳

The final step in crafting the Ark of the Covenant involved preparing it for travel by sliding carrying poles through the metal rings on its sides. When Bezalel initially inserted these poles, he centered them so they extended equally on both sides, ensuring the structure was balanced and ready to be carried. However, this initial setup differed from how Moses would later arrange them. Moses adjusted the poles so they extended entirely from just one side, allowing them to press against and visibly push outward on the dividing curtain of the Tabernacle [העמק דבר].

Beyond the physical preparation for travel, the account of this construction holds a deeper structural insight. The narrative refers to the Ark three distinct times during this process. This repeated focus serves as a subtle indication of its unique design. Rather than constructing a single wooden chest, Bezalel actually crafted three separate boxes that nested within one another, seamlessly combining to form the final, complete Ark of the Covenant [אור החיים].