The IDF’s Rabbinical Corps has introduced several groundbreaking innovations over the past few months to support soldiers in maintaining their faith while engaged in combat. These developments, inspired by the ongoing conflict on multiple fronts, aim to provide practical solutions for the spiritual needs of the military.
One of the key innovations developed by the IDF Rabbinate is a unique Aron Kodesh, designed specifically for a Sefer Torah. At the press of a button, this special Aron Kodesh transforms into a bimah for the Sefer Torah, offering both protection and practicality. “As far as transporting a Sefer Torah is concerned, an Aron Kodesh is required because of the humidity that damages Sifrei Torah,” explained Colonel Rabbi Shoham Orkabi, Chief of Staff of the IDF Rabbinate.
Rabbi Orkabi further elaborated on the limitations of the current method. “The Aron Kodesh that is used now is not comfortable to carry and is not waterproof, so the IDF’s Rabbinical Corps developed a Torah carrier with straps on both sides. This carrier is very comfortable to carry, and can be taken on the back to any location.”
The new carrier not only ensures the safety of the Sefer Torah from various environmental elements but also serves a dual purpose. “This development protects the Sefer Torah from all weather conditions, even from rain or dampness. The carrier can also be used as a reading table from the scroll itself, as it has legs at the bottom that are raised about ten centimeters from the ground. Thus there is no problem of a Sefer Torah being placed on the ground,” Rabbi Orkabi said.

{Matzav.com Israel}