Q. Why is the ark of Noah called a Teiva. Considering its purpose would it not be more correct to call it, an Oniya, (as by Yona and Chiram) or the Targum’s S’finah, meaning a boat or ship?
A. The simple answer would be that a Teiva was not a ship or boat, since it was not traveling anywhere. Rather it was like the Aron Hakodesh also called Teiva, that provided succor and survival to those inside.
However, “teiva” has another meaning and that is a “word”, usually referring to a word of Torah. Thus alluding to the ultimate protection of Klal Yisroel and the world, the learning of Torah.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised By Horav Shlomo Miller and Horav Aharon Miller Shlit'a
Important Numbers
