1 Chronicles 13:6

David and all Israel went up to Baalah of Judah (that is, Kiriath-jearim) to bring up from there the ark of God the LORD, who is enthroned between the cherubim--the ark that is called by the Name.

Study Bible

David and all Israel
This phrase highlights the unity and collective action of the nation under David's leadership. The Hebrew root for "David" (דָּוִד) means "beloved," reflecting his status as a man after God's own heart. "All Israel" signifies the entire nation, emphasizing the communal aspect of worship and the importance of national unity in seeking God's presence. Historically, this moment marks a significant point in David's reign, as he seeks to centralize worship in Jerusalem, uniting the tribes under a common spiritual purpose.

went up to Baalah of Judah (Kiriath-jearim)
"Baalah of Judah" is another name for "Kiriath-jearim," a town with significant historical and religious importance. The Hebrew root for "Baalah" (בַּעֲלָה) can mean "mistress" or "lady," but in this context, it refers to a place. "Kiriath-jearim" (קִרְיַת-יְעָרִים) means "city of forests," indicating its geographical features. This location is historically significant as the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant after it was returned by the Philistines (1 Samuel 7:1-2). The journey to this place underscores the reverence and anticipation of bringing the Ark to Jerusalem.

to bring up from there the ark of God the LORD
The "ark of God the LORD" is central to Israel's worship, symbolizing God's presence and covenant with His people. The Hebrew word for "ark" (אֲרוֹן) denotes a chest or box, but its significance is far greater, representing God's throne on earth. The phrase "God the LORD" combines "Elohim" (אֱלֹהִים) and "Yahweh" (יְהוָה), emphasizing both the power and the personal covenantal relationship God has with Israel. This act of bringing up the Ark signifies a desire to restore proper worship and acknowledge God's sovereignty.

who is enthroned between the cherubim
This phrase describes the Ark's lid, known as the "mercy seat," where God's presence was believed to dwell. The "cherubim" (כְּרוּבִים) are angelic beings, often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces. The imagery of God being "enthroned" (יֹשֵׁב) between them highlights His majesty and holiness. This concept is rooted in the Hebrew understanding of God as both transcendent and immanent, ruling from His heavenly throne yet dwelling among His people.

the ark that is called by the Name
The "Name" (שֵׁם) refers to God's revealed character and authority. In Hebrew culture, a name encapsulates identity and essence. The Ark being "called by the Name" signifies its role as the earthly representation of God's divine presence and power. This underscores the sacredness of the Ark and the reverence with which it must be approached. Theologically, it points to the importance of honoring God's holiness and the seriousness of approaching Him in worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The second king of Israel, a man after God's own heart, who sought to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem.

2. All Israel
Represents the collective participation of the nation in this significant religious event, highlighting unity and shared purpose.

3. Baalah of Judah (Kiriath-jearim)
The location where the Ark of the Covenant had been kept after being returned by the Philistines.

4. Ark of God
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel.

5. The LORD enthroned between the cherubim
A reference to God's divine presence and authority, symbolized by the Ark's design.

Teaching Points

Reverence for God's Presence
The Ark symbolizes God's holy presence. We should approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His holiness and authority.

Unity in Worship
David and all Israel's collective effort to bring the Ark to Jerusalem underscores the importance of unity in worship and communal dedication to God's purposes.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Ark's transportation required adherence to specific instructions. This teaches us the importance of following God's commands carefully in our lives.

God's Sovereignty
The phrase "enthroned between the cherubim" reminds us of God's sovereign rule over all creation. We should trust in His supreme authority and plan for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Ark of the Covenant represent in the context of Israel's relationship with God, and how can we apply this understanding to our relationship with God today?

2. How does the unity of "all Israel" in bringing the Ark to Jerusalem challenge us to pursue unity within our own faith communities?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate reverence for God's presence in our daily lives, and what practices can help cultivate this attitude?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to follow specific instructions from God. What were the challenges, and what did you learn from the experience?

5. How does acknowledging God's sovereignty, as symbolized by His enthronement between the cherubim, impact your trust in His plans for your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 6
This parallel account provides additional details about the transportation of the Ark and the events surrounding it.

Exodus 25:22
Describes the Ark's construction and God's promise to meet with Moses above the mercy seat, emphasizing the Ark's significance as a meeting place with God.

Psalm 80:1
Calls upon God, who is enthroned between the cherubim, to shine forth, reinforcing the imagery of God's presence and power.