In the context of the Bible, "the poles" refer to the long, wooden rods used to carry sacred objects, particularly the Ark of the Covenant and other holy furnishings of the Tabernacle. These poles were integral to the transportation and handling of these sacred items, ensuring that they were moved according to divine instructions and without direct human contact, which was forbidden.

The Ark of the Covenant:

The Ark of the Covenant, a central and most sacred object in the Israelite worship, was constructed under the guidance of God as revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai. The Ark was a gold-covered wooden chest containing the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. The poles used to carry the Ark were made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, as described in Exodus 25:13-15 : "You are to make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold. Insert the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark, so that the ark may be carried by them. The poles are to remain in the rings of the ark; they must not be removed."

The permanence of the poles in the rings of the Ark signifies the readiness for movement, symbolizing the presence of God journeying with His people. The poles were never to be removed, emphasizing the sanctity and the divine command regarding the handling of the Ark.

The Tabernacle Furnishings:

In addition to the Ark, other furnishings of the Tabernacle, such as the table of showbread and the altar of incense, also had poles for transportation. Exodus 25:27-28 states regarding the table: "The rings are to be close to the rim, to serve as holders for the poles used to carry the table. Make the poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold, so that the table may be carried with them."

Similarly, the altar of incense was equipped with poles for carrying, as described in Exodus 30:4-5 : "Make two gold rings for the altar below the molding, on opposite sides, to hold the poles used to carry it. Make the poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold."

Symbolism and Significance:

The use of poles in the transportation of sacred objects underscores the holiness and separateness of these items. The Israelites were instructed to handle these objects with utmost reverence, acknowledging the presence and holiness of God. The poles served as a physical barrier, preventing direct contact with the sacred, which was reserved for the divine.

The narrative of Uzzah in 2 Samuel 6:6-7 illustrates the seriousness of these instructions: "When they came to the threshing floor of Nacon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, because the oxen had stumbled. And the anger of the LORD burned against Uzzah, and God struck him down on the spot for his irreverence, and he died there beside the ark of God." This incident highlights the importance of adhering to God's commands regarding the handling of holy objects.

Conclusion:

The poles used in the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant and other sacred furnishings of the Tabernacle are a testament to the reverence and obedience required in the worship of God. They symbolize the divine presence among the Israelites and the careful observance of God's instructions in maintaining the sanctity of His dwelling place.