Topical Bible: Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant: Carried by Kohathites

◄ Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant: Carried by Kohathites ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Ark of the Covenant, a central and sacred object within the Tabernacle, holds profound significance in the religious life of ancient Israel. It is often referred to simply as "the Ark" and is considered the earthly dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The Ark was constructed according to divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai and is described in detail in the Book of Exodus.

Construction and Description

The Ark was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, both inside and out. It measured approximately 2.5 cubits long, 1.5 cubits wide, and 1.5 cubits high (Exodus 25:10). The Ark featured a gold molding around it and was equipped with four gold rings, two on each side, through which poles were inserted for carrying. These poles, also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, were never to be removed from the rings (Exodus 25:12-15).

The cover of the Ark, known as the "mercy seat," was made of pure gold and featured two cherubim with outstretched wings facing each other. It was here, above the mercy seat, that God promised to meet with Moses and communicate His commands for the Israelites (Exodus 25:17-22).

Contents of the Ark

The Ark of the Covenant contained several sacred items: the two stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, a golden jar of manna, and Aaron's rod that budded (Hebrews 9:4). These items served as perpetual reminders of God's covenant, provision, and chosen leadership.

Role and Significance

The Ark was central to Israel's worship and religious practices. It was housed in the Most Holy Place, or the Holy of Holies, within the Tabernacle, separated from the Holy Place by a veil. Only the high priest could enter this sacred space, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:2-34).

Carried by the Kohathites

The responsibility of transporting the Ark fell to the Kohathites, a division of the Levites. According to Numbers 4:15, the Kohathites were charged with carrying the most holy things, including the Ark, during the Israelites' journeys. They were to carry it on their shoulders using the poles, as direct contact with the Ark was forbidden under penalty of death (Numbers 4:15; 2 Samuel 6:6-7).

The Kohathites' role was crucial, as the Ark often led the Israelites in their travels, symbolizing God's guidance and presence. For instance, during the crossing of the Jordan River, the Ark went ahead of the people, and the waters were miraculously parted (Joshua 3:14-17).

Biblical References

The Ark of the Covenant is mentioned numerous times throughout the Old Testament, underscoring its importance. Key references include its construction (Exodus 25:10-22), its role in the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 3:3-17), and its central place in Israel's worship (1 Samuel 4:3-11; 2 Samuel 6:1-17).

The Ark's presence signified God's covenantal relationship with Israel, His holiness, and His desire to dwell among His people. It served as a tangible reminder of God's promises and His law, guiding the Israelites both spiritually and physically throughout their history.

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Numbers 3:30,31
And the chief of the house of the father of the families of the Kohathites shall be Elizaphan the son of Uzziel.
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Numbers 4:4,15
This shall be the service of the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation, about the most holy things:
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Deuteronomy 10:8
At that time the LORD separated the tribe of Levi, to bear the ark of the covenant of the LORD, to stand before the LORD to minister to him, and to bless in his name, to this day.
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1 Chronicles 15:2,15
Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them has the LORD chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister to him for ever.
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