1 Chronicles 13:6

David and all Israel went up to Baalah of Judah (that is, Kiriath-jearim) to bring up from there the ark of God the LORD, who is enthroned between the cherubim--the ark that is called by the Name.

Study Bible

David and all Israel went up to Baalah of Judah
This phrase highlights the unity of Israel under David's leadership. David, as the anointed king, sought to consolidate the nation both politically and spiritually. Baalah of Judah, also known as Kiriath-jearim, was a significant location because the Ark of the Covenant had been there since the time of Samuel (1 Samuel 7:1-2). The journey "up" indicates the elevation of the region, as Kiriath-jearim is situated in the hill country of Judah. This reflects the importance of the Ark and the reverence with which it was approached.

(that is, Kiriath-jearim)
Kiriath-jearim, meaning "City of Forests," was a Gibeonite city (Joshua 9:17) and had been the resting place of the Ark for about 20 years after it was returned by the Philistines (1 Samuel 6:21-7:2). This city was strategically located on the border of Judah and Benjamin, making it accessible to the tribes of Israel. The mention of both names underscores the historical and geographical significance of the location.

to bring up from there the ark of God the LORD
The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in Israel, symbolizing God's presence and covenant with His people. David's desire to bring the Ark to Jerusalem was a move to establish the city as the religious and political center of Israel. This act was not just a political maneuver but a spiritual one, signifying the centrality of God in the life of the nation. The Ark's movement also foreshadows the future establishment of the temple in Jerusalem.

who is enthroned between the cherubim
This phrase refers to the mercy seat on the Ark, where two cherubim faced each other with wings outstretched. It was here that God's presence was believed to dwell (Exodus 25:22). The imagery of God being "enthroned" between the cherubim emphasizes His sovereignty and holiness. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 99:1 and Isaiah 37:16, reinforcing the idea of God's divine kingship and His intimate presence with His people.

the ark that is called by the Name
The "Name" refers to the sacred and covenantal name of God, Yahweh. The Ark was not just a religious artifact; it was intrinsically linked to God's identity and His relationship with Israel. The reverence for the Name underscores the holiness and power associated with the Ark. This connection between the Ark and God's Name is a reminder of the covenant promises and the need for Israel to honor and obey God. The Ark as a type of Christ can be seen in how it represents God's presence and the fulfillment of His promises through Jesus, who is the ultimate revelation of God's Name and presence among His people (John 1:14).

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The second king of Israel, a man after God's own heart, who sought to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem.

2. All Israel
Represents the collective participation of the nation in this significant religious event, highlighting unity and shared purpose.

3. Baalah of Judah (Kiriath-jearim)
The location where the Ark of the Covenant had been kept after being returned by the Philistines.

4. Ark of God
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel.

5. The LORD enthroned between the cherubim
A reference to God's divine presence and authority, symbolized by the Ark's design.

Teaching Points

Reverence for God's Presence
The Ark symbolizes God's holy presence. We should approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His holiness and authority.

Unity in Worship
David and all Israel's collective effort to bring the Ark to Jerusalem underscores the importance of unity in worship and communal dedication to God's purposes.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Ark's transportation required adherence to specific instructions. This teaches us the importance of following God's commands carefully in our lives.

God's Sovereignty
The phrase "enthroned between the cherubim" reminds us of God's sovereign rule over all creation. We should trust in His supreme authority and plan for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Ark of the Covenant represent in the context of Israel's relationship with God, and how can we apply this understanding to our relationship with God today?

2. How does the unity of "all Israel" in bringing the Ark to Jerusalem challenge us to pursue unity within our own faith communities?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate reverence for God's presence in our daily lives, and what practices can help cultivate this attitude?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to follow specific instructions from God. What were the challenges, and what did you learn from the experience?

5. How does acknowledging God's sovereignty, as symbolized by His enthronement between the cherubim, impact your trust in His plans for your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 6
This parallel account provides additional details about the transportation of the Ark and the events surrounding it.

Exodus 25:22
Describes the Ark's construction and God's promise to meet with Moses above the mercy seat, emphasizing the Ark's significance as a meeting place with God.

Psalm 80:1
Calls upon God, who is enthroned between the cherubim, to shine forth, reinforcing the imagery of God's presence and power.