The Mishkan was a special place. The ambiance was structured so that here one could connect with Hashem in a very special way. Each one of the utensils was fashioned in a way that symbolized greatness. The Aron, for example, was structured with half measures (1 1/2 x 1 1/2 x 2 1/2) to symbolize that a person should always view their achievements as a half of their true potential. The Aron was made of wood which was inlaid with gold on both outside and inside. This symbolized that a person was essentially like wood, temporary and vulnerable, subject to decay. But if one coats themselves with golden deeds, not just for show, but both inside and out, then one can attain eternity.

One of the most fascinating features of the Aron is that the poles which were used to carry it when they travelled would remain affixed to the Aron even after they reached their destination. Leaving the poles in place even after they reached their destination gave the image that the Aron was in transit. For some reason that image of the Aron as it travelled is the symbol which the Aron was meant to share. What exactly did the Aron in transit represent?

Jewish tradition tells us that there was something very unique about the Aron. Although the Aron was assigned carriers just like all the other vessels, in the case of the Aron, the carriers did not actually carry the Aron. Instead, “The Aron carried its carriers.” Although the carriers stood positioned as carriers, it was the Aron that whisked them along carrying them as it travelled. To appreciate the symbolic message of this, consider the following.

Picture a group of canoes travelling together. In the midst of their travels a storm hits and all the canoes begin to wobble precariously.  Suddenly one of the canoes tips over and the people on it are thrown to the rapids. The people who have been thrown call to those on the still stable canoes for help, but no one wants to help them.  Each claims, perhaps rightfully so, that they are dealing with their own problems. Each one of the canoes is wobbling dangerously and taking on water. The people are trying so hard to keep their own balance. How could they possibly reach out and help someone else?

Yet, one of the people on one of the canoes reaches out to offer help. Somehow this person gains inspiration from the Aron and says, “My own situation is precarious. I myself am in transit and dealing with many of my own issues. Yet the Aron- even when in transit- was able to carry others. And so can I.”

Many of us are aware of people around us who need assistance. But we are hesitant to lend a hand because perhaps we think that we aren’t quite so stable ourselves. Lucky is the person who can lend a hand even as their own canoe wobbles. Lucky is the person who can take a lesson from the Aron in transit.

This article is written in tribute to Rabbi and Mrs. Eliezer and Besie Katz of Politz Hebrew Academy, Philadelphia. May they continue to be blessed to reach out to others.