1)

Why does the Torah ascribe the construction of the Aron to Betzalel?

1.

Rashi: Because he put into its construction more than all the other Chachamim, it is called after him.

2.

Ramban and Seforno: Because he actually constructed it. Refer to 36:8:1:1.

3.

Da'as Zekenim and Rosh: Because his name is the acronym of "be'Tzeil Keil" (in the Shadow of Hashem) - and 'Tzeil Kel' rested on the Aron. 1

4.

Moshav Zekenim and Ba'al ha'Turim (38:1): He was in the shade of Hashem and knew the secret of the Aron and Merkavah, because the Aron corresponds to the Kisei ha'Kavod.


1

Rosh): Also because he knew by himself (with Ru'ach ha'Kodesh) to make the Mishkan before the Aron [and other Keilim]. Refer to 38:22:1:1.

2)

Why did Hashem command that they make the Aron specifically of "Atzei Shitim"?

1.

Da'as Zekenim and Rosh: Because He foresaw that they were destined to sin at Shitim (regarding Arayos and idolatry). 1 Therefore He established [the Aron of Atzei Shitim] to atone for the episode in Shitim. 2

2.

Because a. it was the best type of wood for the Keilim; b. Because it was available. 3


1

See Bamidbar 25:1-3.

2

Rosh - Hashem prepares the cure before the illness.

3

Refer to 25:5:2:1-3 and notes.

3)

Why did Betzalel make the Aron before all the other Keilim?

1.

Da'as Zekenim and Rosh: Because, just as light was the first creation, as implied by the Pasuk in Tehilim 119:130 "Pesach Devarecha Ya'ir" - so too did Betzalel first make the Aron, since it contained the Torah, which is called light. 1


1

As the Pasuk writes in Mishlei, 6:23 "Ki Ner Mitzvah ve'Torah Or".

4)

Where were the Luchos placed before Betzalel made the Aron?

1.

Refer to Devarim, 10:1:3:1-3.

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