2 Chronicles 5:7

Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the LORD to its place in the inner sanctuary of the temple, the Most Holy Place, beneath the wings of the cherubim.

Study Bible

Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the LORD
The priests, who were descendants of Levi, had the sacred duty of handling the Ark, a task that underscored the holiness and reverence required in worship. The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest that contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna, symbolizing God's covenant with Israel. It represented God's presence and His promises to His people. The Ark's journey from the tabernacle to the temple marks a significant transition in Israel's worship, from a mobile sanctuary to a permanent dwelling place for God's presence.

to its place in the inner sanctuary of the temple
The inner sanctuary, also known as the Holy of Holies, was the most sacred part of the temple, signifying the dwelling place of God among His people. Only the high priest could enter this area, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement, highlighting the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. The temple, built by Solomon, was a fulfillment of God's promise to David and a central place of worship for Israel, symbolizing God's desire to dwell among His people.

the Most Holy Place
The Most Holy Place was the innermost part of the temple, separated by a veil from the Holy Place. This separation illustrated the barrier between God and man due to sin, a barrier that would later be torn down through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, as symbolized by the tearing of the temple veil at His crucifixion. The Most Holy Place housed the Ark, emphasizing the centrality of God's covenant and presence in the life of Israel.

beneath the wings of the cherubim
The cherubim were angelic beings depicted as guardians of God's holiness. In the temple, two large cherubim made of olive wood and overlaid with gold stood in the Most Holy Place, their wings spread over the Ark. This imagery recalls the cherubim that guarded the entrance to Eden after the fall, symbolizing both protection and the holiness of God's presence. The positioning of the Ark beneath the cherubim highlights the divine protection and the sacredness of the covenant between God and Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priests
The Levitical priests were responsible for carrying out the sacred duties in the temple, including the transportation and placement of the Ark of the Covenant.

2. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, representing God's covenant with Israel and His presence among His people.

3. The Inner Sanctuary (Most Holy Place)
The innermost part of the temple, also known as the Holy of Holies, where the Ark was placed. It symbolized the dwelling place of God.

4. The House (Temple)
Refers to Solomon's Temple, a central place of worship for Israel, signifying God's presence and glory.

5. The Cherubim
Angelic beings whose wings overshadowed the Ark, symbolizing divine protection and the majesty of God's presence.

Teaching Points

Reverence for God's Presence
The careful placement of the Ark in the Most Holy Place underscores the reverence due to God's presence. As believers, we are called to approach God with awe and respect.

Symbolism of the Ark
The Ark represents God's covenant and faithfulness. In our lives, we should remember and rely on God's promises, trusting in His unchanging nature.

Role of the Priests
The priests' role in transporting the Ark highlights the importance of faithful service. We are called to serve God and others with dedication and integrity.

Significance of the Temple
The temple as a dwelling place for God points to the New Testament teaching that believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit. We should live lives that honor God's presence within us.

Divine Protection
The cherubim's wings over the Ark symbolize God's protection. We can find comfort in knowing that God watches over and protects His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the placement of the Ark in the Most Holy Place teach us about the nature of God's presence?

2. How can we apply the reverence shown by the priests in our own worship and daily lives?

3. In what ways does the Ark of the Covenant foreshadow the work of Christ as described in the New Testament?

4. How does understanding that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit impact the way we live and make decisions?

5. What are some practical ways we can remind ourselves of God's promises and faithfulness in our daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25
Describes the original instructions for building the Ark of the Covenant, emphasizing its significance as a symbol of God's covenant and presence.

1 Kings 8
Provides a parallel account of the Ark being brought into the temple, highlighting the importance of this event in Israel's history.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the Most Holy Place and the role of the high priest, drawing connections to Christ's ultimate sacrifice.