Topical Bible: Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant: Set up in Shiloh

◄ Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant: Set up in Shiloh ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest built by the Israelites under the guidance of Moses, served as the earthly dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Constructed according to divine specifications given to Moses on Mount Sinai, 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. The Ark was adorned with a gold molding around it and featured four gold rings, through which poles were inserted for carrying (Exodus 25:10-15).

The Ark's lid, known as the Mercy Seat, was crafted from pure gold and featured two cherubim with outstretched wings facing each other. It was here, between the cherubim, that the presence of the LORD would appear and communicate with Moses (Exodus 25:17-22). The Ark contained the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, a golden jar of manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, serving as a testimony to God's covenant and provision (Hebrews 9:4).

After the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their subsequent wanderings in the wilderness, the Ark of the Covenant was housed within the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that accompanied the Israelites on their journey to the Promised Land. The Ark played a central role in the Israelites' worship and was carried ahead of them in their travels, symbolizing God's guidance and presence (Numbers 10:33-36).

Upon entering the Promised Land, the Ark was eventually set up in Shiloh, a significant location in the tribal territory of Ephraim. Shiloh became the religious center for the Israelites during the period of the Judges, serving as the site where the Tabernacle was pitched and the Ark was housed (Joshua 18:1). The presence of the Ark in Shiloh underscored the city's importance as a place of worship and pilgrimage, where the Israelites would gather for feasts and sacrifices.

The Ark's presence in Shiloh is notably mentioned in the narrative of Samuel's early life. Hannah, Samuel's mother, prayed fervently at the Tabernacle in Shiloh for a son, and upon the fulfillment of her prayer, she dedicated Samuel to the LORD's service under the priest Eli (1 Samuel 1:9-28). Samuel's ministry began in Shiloh, where he served before the Ark and received his first prophetic revelation from God (1 Samuel 3:1-21).

However, the Ark's time in Shiloh came to an end during a tumultuous period in Israel's history. In a battle against the Philistines, the Israelites, seeking victory, brought the Ark from Shiloh to the battlefield. Despite their hopes, the Philistines defeated the Israelites, capturing the Ark and bringing it into their territory (1 Samuel 4:1-11). This event marked a significant moment in Israel's history, as the loss of the Ark symbolized a departure of God's favor due to the people's disobedience and the corruption of the priesthood.

The Ark's journey from Shiloh to Philistine territory and its eventual return to Israelite hands is a testament to God's sovereignty and the sacredness of His covenant with Israel. The Ark's presence in Shiloh remains a pivotal chapter in the history of the Israelites, reflecting both their devotion and their struggles in maintaining faithfulness to the covenant established by God.

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Joshua 18:1
And the whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the tabernacle of the congregation there. And the land was subdued before them.
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Judges 20:27,28
And the children of Israel inquired of the LORD, (for the ark of the covenant of God was there in those days,
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1 Samuel 4:3,4
And when the people were come into the camp, the elders of Israel said, Why has the LORD smitten us to day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of Shiloh to us, that, when it comes among us, it may save us out of the hand of our enemies.
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