The proposal to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem is a significant event in the history of Israel, marking a pivotal moment in the reign of King David. This event is recorded in the Old Testament, primarily in 2 Samuel 6 and 1 Chronicles 13 and 15. The Ark, which symbolized the presence of God among His people, had been residing in Kiriath-jearim for many years following its return from Philistine captivity (1 Samuel 7:1-2).

Context and Background

The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest built by the Israelites under the direction of Moses, as described in Exodus 25:10-22. It contained the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna (Hebrews 9:4). The Ark was central to Israelite worship and represented God's covenant with His people.

After the Ark was captured by the Philistines and subsequently returned to Israel, it remained in the house of Abinadab in Kiriath-jearim for about 20 years. During this time, the Ark was largely neglected, and the spiritual life of Israel suffered.

David's Proposal

Upon becoming king over all Israel, David sought to restore the Ark to a place of prominence, recognizing its importance in unifying the nation and re-establishing proper worship. David's desire to bring the Ark to Jerusalem was both a political and spiritual move, as Jerusalem was to be the political and religious center of Israel.

In 1 Chronicles 13:1-4 , David consults with his leaders and the assembly of Israel, saying, "If it seems good to you and if this is from the LORD our God, let us send word to the rest of our brothers throughout the territories of Israel, and also to the priests and Levites who are with them in their cities and pasturelands, to come and join us. Then let us bring back the ark of our God to us, for we did not inquire of Him in the days of Saul." The proposal was well-received by the people, indicating a collective desire to return to the worship of Yahweh.

The First Attempt

David's initial attempt to bring the Ark to Jerusalem was marked by enthusiasm but also by a lack of adherence to the prescribed method of transport. The Ark was placed on a new cart, driven by Uzzah and Ahio, sons of Abinadab (2 Samuel 6:3). This method of transport was contrary to the instructions given in the Law, which specified that the Ark should be carried by the Levites using poles (Numbers 4:15).

As the procession moved, the oxen stumbled, and Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark, resulting in his immediate death by divine judgment (2 Samuel 6:6-7). This tragic event caused David to fear the LORD and temporarily abandon his plan, leaving the Ark at the house of Obed-edom the Gittite (2 Samuel 6:9-10).

The Successful Transport

After three months, during which the household of Obed-edom was blessed, David made a second attempt to bring the Ark to Jerusalem. This time, he followed the proper procedures as outlined in the Law. David instructed the Levites to consecrate themselves and carry the Ark on their shoulders with poles, as commanded by Moses (1 Chronicles 15:12-15).

The successful transport of the Ark was accompanied by great celebration, with David and all Israel rejoicing before the LORD with singing, dancing, and the sound of musical instruments (2 Samuel 6:14-15). Upon its arrival in Jerusalem, the Ark was placed in a tent that David had prepared, and burnt offerings and peace offerings were made before the LORD (2 Samuel 6:17).

Significance

The proposal to bring the Ark to Jerusalem and its eventual successful transport signified a renewed commitment to the covenant relationship with God. It established Jerusalem as the spiritual heart of Israel and set the stage for the future construction of the Temple by Solomon. This event underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the centrality of worship in the life of God's people.