Various commentators reflect upon the two points emphasized by the pesukim regarding the Ner Tamid. Horav Shimshon Raphael Hirsch Z”l comments that, although the human mind turns towards the Torah as the source of spiritual sustenance, man must constantly be cognizant of its standing “outside” the Torah. The Torah has been presented to the human mind, not produced by it. Man must utilize the Torah in order to increase his knowledge, wisdom, and sophistication, but he can never inject his own enlightenment upon the Torah in an attempt to amend or reform it. He must always be aware of Paroches (curtain), and of the Keruvim, who stand vigilant “guard” over the Torah‘s sacredness. They strive to preserve the Torah against any tendency of the human mind to misjudge its true position and turn against the sacrosanct inviolability of the Torah. One must sit as a disciple at the feet of the Torah, never daring to assume an arrogant mastery over it.
The Pardes Yosef compares the constant burning of the Ner Tamid to the Ner Tamid of Torah which must maintain its continuity in the hearts of every Jew. All too often, we affix the Ner Tamid in the Bais Hamedrash or the shul and abandon it there. It must also burn “outside the testimony,” in the home, in the street, and throughout our secular endeavors. The Ner Tamid of Torah guidance should direct every facet of our life.
