Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Pe'rez-uz'zah is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of King David's efforts to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The name "Pe'rez-uz'zah" translates to "outburst against Uzzah" or "breach of Uzzah," reflecting a pivotal event that occurred during the transportation of the Ark. Biblical Account: The account of Pe'rez-uz'zah is found in 2 Samuel 6:1-8 and 1 Chronicles 13:1-11. King David, with the support of thirty thousand chosen men of Israel, set out to bring the Ark of the Covenant from the house of Abinadab, which was on a hill. The Ark was placed on a new cart, driven by Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab. As they transported the Ark, the oxen stumbled, and Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark. The Lord's anger burned against Uzzah for his irreverent act, and God struck him down, resulting in his death beside the Ark. This event caused David to become angry and afraid, leading him to name the place Pe'rez-uz'zah. The Berean Standard Bible records this in 2 Samuel 6:8: "Then David became angry because the LORD had burst forth against Uzzah; so that place is called Perez-uzza to this day." Theological Significance: The incident at Pe'rez-uz'zah underscores the holiness of God and the importance of reverence in worship. The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in Israel, representing God's presence among His people. The prescribed method for transporting the Ark, as outlined in the Law of Moses, involved the Levites carrying it on their shoulders using poles (Exodus 25:14-15; Numbers 4:15). The use of a cart, as well as Uzzah's direct contact with the Ark, violated these divine instructions. This event serves as a sobering reminder of the necessity of obedience to God's commands and the seriousness of approaching Him with the proper respect and reverence. It highlights the concept of God's holiness and the consequences of disregarding His established order. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, the Ark of the Covenant was not merely a religious artifact but a symbol of divine authority and presence. The Israelites understood the Ark as the throne of God, where He would meet with His people. The incident at Pe'rez-uz'zah reflects the broader cultural understanding of sacred space and the divine-human relationship. David's Response: Following the incident, David was initially afraid to bring the Ark into the City of David. Instead, he diverted it to the house of Obed-edom the Gittite, where it remained for three months. During this time, the household of Obed-edom was blessed by the Lord, which encouraged David to eventually bring the Ark to Jerusalem with great celebration and proper reverence (2 Samuel 6:9-12). Conclusion: The account of Pe'rez-uz'zah serves as a powerful narrative about the holiness of God and the importance of adhering to His commands. It is a reminder of the reverence due to God and the care required in handling sacred matters. Concordance Pe'rez-uz'zah (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 6:8 Thesaurus Pe'rez-uz'zah (1 Occurrence)Pe'rez-uz'zah. Perez-uzzah, Pe'rez-uz'zah. Perfect . Multi-Version Concordance Pe'rez-uz'zah (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 6:8 David ... /p/pe'rez-uz'zah.htm - 6k Perez-uzzah (1 Occurrence) Perfect (205 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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