The Ark Brought to Jerusalem: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on 2 Samuel 6

Executive Summary

2 Samuel 6 recounts the momentous event of King David’s attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. This chapter, steeped in both triumph and tragedy, reveals profound truths about reverence for God, the importance of approaching holiness with proper preparation and understanding, and the consequences of irreverence. From Uzzah’s fateful mistake to David’s initial anger and subsequent learning of God’s will, the narrative unfolds a complex tapestry of human frailty and divine sovereignty. This journey of the Ark serves as a powerful allegory for our own spiritual journeys, highlighting the necessity of obedience, humility, and a genuine fear of the Lord. Understanding The Ark Brought to Jerusalem is crucial for navigating our relationship with God and His sacred presence in our lives.

This chapter provides a unique and crucial insight into the spiritual discipline required of those who approach God. We learn through David’s mistake and subsequent understanding that our hearts must be prepared to meet God in truth and reverence.

Commentary

2 Samuel 6:1 (KJV) – David again gathered together all the chosen men of Israel, thirty thousand.

The text states: “Again, David gathered all the choice men of Israel, thirty thousand.” This massive gathering speaks to the significance David placed on bringing the Ark to Jerusalem. It wasn’t merely a religious exercise, but a deliberate act of consolidating his kingdom and establishing Jerusalem as the center of worship. These “chosen men” were likely skilled warriors, emphasizing the strength and unity of Israel under David’s leadership. Spiritually, this calls us to gather ourselves and our resources – our thoughts, prayers, and actions – to focus on encountering God.

Spiritual Application: How often do we approach God half-heartedly? David’s large assembly teaches us the importance of dedicated and focused effort in our spiritual pursuits. Consider your prayer life – is it a quick afterthought, or a deliberate gathering of your thoughts and intentions to meet with God?

2 Samuel 6:2 (KJV) – And David arose, and went with all the people that were with him from Baale of Judah, to bring up from thence the ark of God, whose name is called by the name of the LORD of hosts that dwelleth between the cherubims.

The text specifies that they journeyed from Baale of Judah (also known as Kirjath-jearim) to retrieve the Ark. The Ark is described as “whose name is called by the name of the LORD of hosts who dwells between the cherubim.” This highlights the Ark’s profound connection to God’s presence. The cherubim, angelic beings, served as guardians and symbolized God’s majestic throne. This emphasizes that God is not just a distant deity but actively present and enthroned amongst His people. St. Athanasius the Apostolic says, “Ὁ γὰρ Θεὸς ἐν τοῖς ἁγίοις αὐτοῦ ἀναπαύεται” (For God rests in His saints) (Athanasius, *De Incarnatione*, PG 25, 128). The saints are like the Ark, carrying God’s presence in their lives.

Spiritual Application: Do we recognize God’s dwelling place in our hearts? Are we striving to become like the Ark, a vessel worthy of bearing His presence? Seek to purify your heart and mind, inviting the Lord to dwell within you.

2 Samuel 6:3-4 (KJV) – And they set the ark of God upon a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab that was in Gibeah: and Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, drave the new cart. And they brought it out of the house of Abinadab which was at Gibeah, accompanying the ark of God: and Ahio went before the ark.

Herein lies the pivotal error. Instead of carrying the Ark on the shoulders of Levites, as prescribed in Numbers 4:15, they placed it on a new cart, driven by Uzzah and Ahio. This seemingly practical decision demonstrates a lack of reverence and understanding of God’s specific instructions. The “new cart” might appear impressive, but it was a human innovation that disregarded divine ordinance. This can be likened to us attempting to serve God on our own terms, rather than according to His revealed will. The fact they used a “new cart” reveals their intentions were good, yet their actions were misdirected. The Coptic Orthodox Church emphasizes obedience to God’s commandments, as stated in the Divine Liturgy: “Let us give heed, that we may stand well, let us stand with fear, let us attend, that we may offer the Holy Offering in peace.”

Spiritual Application: Are we trying to improve on God’s instructions? Do we sometimes think we know better than He does? This passage serves as a stark reminder that obedience, even when it seems illogical, is paramount in our relationship with God. Consider how you approach prayer, fasting, and other spiritual disciplines. Are you following the traditions and teachings of the Church, or are you improvising based on your own preferences?

2 Samuel 6:5 (KJV) – And David and all the house of Israel played before the LORD on all manner of instruments made of fir wood, even on harps, and on psalteries, and on timbrels, and on cornets, and on cymbals.

The initial celebration was exuberant, marked by music and dancing. David and the Israelites expressed their joy and anticipation in bringing the Ark to Jerusalem. This demonstrates the importance of expressing our love and gratitude to God through worship. However, this joyous celebration was overshadowed by their earlier disregard for God’s instructions. St. Cyril of Alexandria reminds us, “Οὐ γὰρ διὰ θυσιῶν καὶ ὁλοκαυτωμάτων ὁ Θεὸς εὐδοκεῖ, ἀλλὰ διὰ δικαιοσύνης καὶ κρίσεως” (For God is not pleased by sacrifices and burnt offerings, but by righteousness and judgment) (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Isaiah*, PG 70, 148). True worship must be rooted in obedience and righteousness, not just outward displays of emotion.

Spiritual Application: Is our worship genuine, or just a performance? Do our actions align with our words of praise? Cultivate a spirit of humility and reverence in your worship, ensuring that it is rooted in obedience and a genuine desire to honor God.

2 Samuel 6:6-7 (KJV) – And when they came to Nachon’s threshingfloor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen shook it. And God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God.

Tragedy strikes. When the oxen stumbled, Uzzah instinctively reached out to steady the Ark. Despite his intentions, this act was a violation of God’s command that only Levites were permitted to touch the Ark (Numbers 4:15). God’s immediate judgment upon Uzzah highlights the seriousness of irreverence and disobedience in the presence of holiness. This event serves as a stark reminder that God’s holiness demands respect and that our well-intentioned actions can be sinful if they defy His commands. The “threshing floor” was a place of judgment and separation, a fitting location for Uzzah’s death. The incident at Nachon’s threshingfloor highlights the danger of approaching the holy without being properly sanctified. This is an extremely crucial lesson on the cost of disobedience.

Spiritual Application: Are we mindful of the boundaries God has set? Do we approach Him with the proper reverence and humility? This passage should instill in us a healthy fear of the Lord and a commitment to studying and obeying His word.

2 Samuel 6:8 (KJV) – And David was displeased, because the LORD had made a breach upon Uzzah: and he called the name of the place Perezuzzah to this day.

David’s initial reaction was anger and fear. He was “displeased” that God had struck Uzzah. He named the place “Perez Uzzah,” meaning “the breach of Uzzah,” as a memorial to this tragic event. David’s anger reveals his initial misunderstanding of God’s justice. He questioned God’s actions, rather than examining his own disobedience. This is a natural human reaction, but it underscores the importance of trusting in God’s wisdom, even when we don’t understand His ways. Often, we do not understand the cost of sin, but we are called to trust that God’s judgement is ultimately righteous and merciful.

Spiritual Application: Do we question God when things go wrong? Do we blame Him for our misfortunes? David’s reaction reminds us to examine our own hearts and actions before questioning God’s motives. Trust in His wisdom and seek understanding through prayer and scripture.

2 Samuel 6:9 (KJV) – And David was afraid of the LORD that day, and said, How shall the ark of the LORD come to me?

David’s fear of the Lord intensified after Uzzah’s death. He questioned, “How shall the ark of the LORD come to me?” This fear was not simply terror, but a profound respect and awe of God’s holiness and power. David realized his error and understood that he had not properly approached the Ark. This fear led him to reconsider his plans and seek guidance from God. This moment of fear is a turning point; it marks the beginning of David’s understanding that he must approach God in accordance with divine ordinance.

Spiritual Application: Do we have a healthy fear of the Lord? Is our relationship with God characterized by reverence and respect? Cultivate a fear of the Lord, recognizing His holiness and the importance of obedience to His commands.

2 Samuel 6:10-11 (KJV) – So David would not remove the ark of the LORD unto him into the city of David: but David carried it aside into the house of Obededom the Gittite. And the ark of the LORD continued in the house of Obededom the Gittite three months: and the LORD blessed Obededom, and all his household.

David, now fearful, diverted the Ark to the house of Obed-edom the Gittite. Obed-edom was a Philistine from Gath, which is surprising. However, the text emphasizes that the Lord blessed Obed-edom and his entire household during the three months the Ark resided with them. This demonstrates that God’s blessing is not limited by ethnicity or background, but is available to all who welcome His presence with a humble and obedient heart. This blessing serves as a contrast to Uzzah’s fate and highlights the importance of having the right attitude and understanding when approaching God’s holiness. This is why Christian web design is so important, so that we may learn how to properly communicate the Gospel to the world.

Spiritual Application: Are we willing to open our homes and hearts to God’s presence? Do we believe that His blessing is available to all, regardless of their background? Invite God into your life and be prepared to receive His abundant blessings. Consider how you can create a welcoming space for God’s presence in your home and community.

2 Samuel 6:12 (KJV) – And it was told king David, saying, The LORD hath blessed the house of Obededom, and all that pertaineth unto him, because of the ark of God. So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obededom into the city of David with gladness.

Hearing of the blessings bestowed upon Obed-edom, David’s fear subsided, and his desire to bring the Ark to Jerusalem reignited. This time, however, he approached the task with renewed reverence and understanding. He learned from his mistake and sought to follow God’s instructions. This demonstrates the importance of learning from our failures and seeking to correct our errors. The fact that David brought the Ark up “with gladness” shows that he now understood the true joy of serving God in accordance with His will.

Spiritual Application: Do we learn from our mistakes? Are we willing to change our approach when we realize we have been in error? Embrace a spirit of humility and be open to correction. Seek to understand God’s will and follow His instructions with joy and obedience.

2 Samuel 6:13 (KJV) – And it was so, that when they that bare the ark of the LORD had gone six paces, he sacrificed oxen and fatlings.

This verse demonstrates David’s newfound reverence and careful obedience. After every six paces, he offered sacrifices of oxen and fatlings. This was not merely a ritualistic act, but a demonstration of his deep gratitude and humility before God. It also served as a constant reminder of the holiness of the Ark and the need to approach it with utmost respect. The “six paces” might also symbolize the imperfect nature of human endeavor, requiring constant atonement and purification through sacrifice. This is a powerful image of repentance and reverence.

Spiritual Application: Do we approach God with a spirit of sacrifice? Are we willing to offer our time, talents, and resources to His service? Cultivate a spirit of gratitude and humility in your relationship with God, recognizing that all we have comes from Him.

2 Samuel 6:14-15 (KJV) – And David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was girded with a linen ephod. So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the LORD with shouting, and with the sound of the trumpet.

David, now humbled and obedient, danced before the Lord with all his might, wearing only a linen ephod, a simple priestly garment. This act of unreserved worship demonstrated his genuine love and devotion to God. His dancing was not a calculated performance, but a spontaneous expression of joy and gratitude. He was willing to humble himself before the Lord, setting aside his royal dignity. The procession was accompanied by shouting and the sound of trumpets, creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere. This scene reminds us of the importance of uninhibited worship and the joy that comes from serving God with a whole heart.

Spiritual Application: Are we willing to let go of our inhibitions and worship God with abandon? Do we allow ourselves to experience the joy of His presence? Embrace a spirit of freedom and authenticity in your worship, expressing your love and gratitude to God with all your heart, soul, and mind.

2 Samuel 6:16 (KJV) – And as the ark of the LORD came into the city of David, Michal Saul’s daughter looked through a window, and saw king David leaping and dancing before the LORD; and she despised him in her heart.

Michal, David’s wife and daughter of Saul, observed David’s dancing and despised him in her heart. Her reaction reveals a lack of spiritual understanding and a focus on outward appearances. She was embarrassed by David’s unreserved worship, viewing it as undignified for a king. Michal’s contempt highlights the danger of pride and the importance of humility in our relationship with God. Her inability to understand David’s joy underscores the spiritual blindness that can result from a lack of genuine faith. The contrast between David’s joyful worship and Michal’s disdain is stark and serves as a cautionary tale.

Spiritual Application: Do we judge others based on their outward expressions of faith? Are we able to appreciate different styles of worship? Guard against pride and cultivate a spirit of humility. Seek to understand and appreciate the diverse ways in which people express their love for God.

2 Samuel 6:17-19 (KJV) – And they brought in the ark of the LORD, and set it in his place, in the midst of the tabernacle that David had pitched for it: and David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD. And as soon as David had made an end of offering burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD of hosts. And he dealt among all the people, even among the whole multitude of Israel, as well to the women as men, to every one a cake of bread, and a piece of flesh, and a flagon of wine. So all the people departed every one to his house.

The Ark was finally placed in the tabernacle that David had prepared for it. David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, symbolizing atonement and reconciliation with God. After the sacrifices, David blessed the people in the name of the Lord of hosts and distributed food and wine to everyone. This act of generosity demonstrates his care for his people and his desire to share the blessings of God with them. The sharing of food and wine symbolizes the unity and fellowship that should characterize the community of faith. This is the culmination of a long journey, both literal and spiritual.

Spiritual Application: Are we generous with our blessings? Do we seek to share the gifts God has given us with others? Cultivate a spirit of generosity and compassion. Seek to bless others in the name of the Lord, sharing your time, talents, and resources with those in need.

2 Samuel 6:20-23 (KJV) – Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, How glorious was the king of Israel to day, who uncovered himself to day in the eyes of the handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly uncovereth himself! And David said unto Michal, It was before the LORD, which chose me before thy father, and before all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the LORD, over Israel: therefore will I play before the LORD. And I will yet be more vile than thus, and will be base in mine own sight: and of the maidservants which thou hast spoken of, of them shall I be had in honour. Therefore Michal the daughter of Saul had no child unto the day of her death.

David returned home to bless his household, but Michal confronted him with scorn and criticism. She accused him of behaving shamefully and exposing himself before the servant girls. David defended his actions, stating that he was worshipping before the Lord who had chosen him over Saul and his entire house. He declared that he would become even more undignified in his worship if necessary and that the servant girls would honor him for it. As a consequence of her pride and contempt, Michal remained childless until her death. This serves as a symbolic representation of her spiritual barrenness. The absence of children signified a lack of blessing and a disconnection from the future of Israel. This ending underscores the importance of humility and the consequences of pride and spiritual blindness.

Spiritual Application: Are we willing to endure criticism for our faith? Do we prioritize pleasing God over pleasing others? Cultivate a spirit of boldness and unwavering devotion. Stand firm in your faith, even when faced with opposition or ridicule. Remember that true honor comes from God, not from the approval of the world.

Key Reflections on Bringing the Ark to Jerusalem 🕊️

This chapter offers several key reflections for our spiritual lives:

• Reverence for God: The story of Uzzah reminds us that God is holy and must be approached with reverence and respect.
• Obedience to God’s Word: David’s initial mistake underscores the importance of following God’s specific instructions, even when they seem illogical.
• Humility in Worship: David’s dancing before the Lord demonstrates the importance of uninhibited worship and a willingness to humble ourselves before God.
• Blessings of Obedience: Obed-edom’s blessing highlights the fact that God blesses those who welcome His presence with a humble and obedient heart.
• Consequences of Pride: Michal’s contempt and subsequent barrenness serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and spiritual blindness.
• Learning from Mistakes: David’s journey demonstrates the importance of learning from our failures and seeking to correct our errors.

FAQ ❓

• Q: Why was Uzzah punished so severely?
  A: Uzzah’s punishment might seem harsh, but it underscores the holiness of God and the importance of obeying His specific commands. Only those who are set apart for the service of the Ark were allowed to touch it.
• Q: What does the Ark of the Covenant symbolize?
  A: The Ark of the Covenant symbolizes God’s presence and His covenant with His people. It was a sacred object that contained the tablets of the Ten Commandments, a pot of manna, and Aaron’s rod that budded.
• Q: What is the significance of David’s dancing before the Lord?
  A: David’s dancing was an act of unreserved worship and a demonstration of his genuine love and devotion to God. It was a spontaneous expression of joy and gratitude, uninhibited by his royal status.
• Q: How can we apply the lessons of this chapter to our lives today?
  A: We can apply the lessons of this chapter by cultivating a spirit of reverence, obedience, and humility in our relationship with God. We can also learn from our mistakes and seek to correct our errors, always striving to approach God with a pure heart and a genuine desire to honor Him.

Conclusion

The story of The Ark Brought to Jerusalem is a powerful and multifaceted narrative that reveals profound truths about our relationship with God. It teaches us the importance of reverence, obedience, humility, and learning from our mistakes. David’s journey, marked by both triumph and tragedy, serves as an allegory for our own spiritual journeys. May we strive to emulate David’s initial exuberance, but tempered by his eventual understanding that approaching God’s holy presence requires a prepared heart and a spirit of obedient reverence. As we navigate our own spiritual journeys, let us be mindful of God’s holiness and the importance of approaching Him with a pure heart and a genuine desire to honor Him.

Tags

The Ark, David, Jerusalem, Obedience, Reverence, Uzzah, Michal, Worship, Coptic Orthodox, Theology

Meta Description

Explore the depths of 2 Samuel 6: The Ark Brought to Jerusalem, through a Coptic Orthodox lens. Learn about reverence, obedience, and humility in approaching God.