1 Samuel 6:7

Now, therefore, prepare one new cart with two milk cows that have never been yoked. Hitch the cows to the cart, but take their calves away and pen them up.

Study Bible

Now, therefore
This phrase indicates a conclusion or a directive based on prior events. In the context of 1 Samuel, the Philistines are responding to the calamities that have befallen them since capturing the Ark of the Covenant. The use of "therefore" suggests a logical step forward, emphasizing the need for action based on divine intervention. Historically, this reflects the Philistines' recognition of the power of the God of Israel, acknowledging that their troubles were not mere coincidences but acts of divine will.

prepare a new cart
The instruction to prepare a "new cart" signifies purity and respect. In ancient cultures, new or unused items were often reserved for sacred purposes. The Hebrew word for "new" (חָדָשׁ, chadash) implies something fresh or unused, symbolizing the reverence due to the Ark. This reflects a broader biblical principle of offering God the best and unblemished, as seen in sacrificial laws.

and two milk cows
The choice of "milk cows" (Hebrew: פָּרוֹת, parot) is significant. These are cows that are actively nursing calves, which would naturally resist leaving their young. This choice sets the stage for a test of divine intervention, as only a supernatural influence would cause them to abandon their maternal instincts. This highlights the theme of God's sovereignty over nature and His ability to direct His creation according to His will.

that have never been yoked
Cows "that have never been yoked" (Hebrew: אֲשֶׁר לֹא־עָלָה עֲלֵיהֶן עֹל, asher lo-alah aleihen ol) indicates animals that are untrained and unaccustomed to pulling a cart. This detail underscores the miraculous nature of the task, as these cows would not naturally work together or follow a path. It serves as a testament to God's power to guide and control even the most unlikely of circumstances.

Hitch the cows to the cart
The act of hitching the cows to the cart is a practical step in the Philistines' plan to return the Ark. It symbolizes submission and service, as the cows are being prepared to carry a holy burden. This action reflects the broader biblical theme of being yoked to God's service, where believers are called to bear His presence and follow His leading.

but send their calves away, pen them up
This instruction to "send their calves away" and "pen them up" (Hebrew: הָשִׁיבוּ בֵּיתָה מֵאַחֲרֵיהֶן, hashibu beitah me'achareihen) is crucial for the test of divine will. By removing the calves, the natural inclination of the cows would be to return to their young. The fact that the cows proceed on the path to Israel despite this separation is a clear sign of God's intervention. This act serves as a powerful reminder of God's ability to override natural instincts and direct His creation according to His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Philistines
The Philistines were a group of people who were often in conflict with the Israelites. In this context, they had captured the Ark of the Covenant and were experiencing divine retribution.

2. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence with the Israelites. The Philistines sought to return it to Israel due to the plagues they suffered.

3. Milk Cows
Two cows that had never been yoked were chosen to pull the cart carrying the Ark. This was significant because it was against their natural instincts to leave their calves and work together.

4. Beth Shemesh
The destination where the Ark was to be returned. It was a Levitical city in Israel, indicating a return to the rightful caretakers of the Ark.

5. Divine Test
The Philistines devised a test to see if the plagues were truly from the God of Israel. If the cows went straight to Beth Shemesh, it would confirm divine intervention.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
The passage demonstrates God's control over all creation, including animals, to fulfill His purposes. This reminds us of His ultimate authority in our lives.

Faith and Obedience
The cows' unnatural behavior in following the path to Beth Shemesh illustrates obedience to God's will, encouraging believers to trust and follow God's guidance even when it defies human logic.

Repentance and Acknowledgment
The Philistines' actions show a recognition of God's power and a desire to make amends. This serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance and acknowledging God's authority.

Divine Testing
The test set by the Philistines reflects the human desire for confirmation of God's will. It encourages believers to seek God's guidance and confirmation through prayer and scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the behavior of the milk cows in 1 Samuel 6:7 demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact your daily trust in God?

2. In what ways does the return of the Ark to Israel reflect the theme of repentance and restoration, and how can this be applied to personal spiritual renewal?

3. Compare the test of the milk cows with Gideon's fleece in Judges 6. What do these accounts teach us about seeking confirmation of God's will?

4. How does the use of animals that have never been yoked in sacred tasks (as seen in Numbers 19) relate to the concept of being set apart for God's purposes in your life?

5. Reflect on a time when you sought God's guidance in a decision. How did you discern His will, and what role did faith and obedience play in your response?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25
Describes the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, emphasizing its sacredness and the presence of God among His people.

Numbers 19
Discusses the use of animals that have never been yoked for sacred purposes, highlighting the purity and set-apart nature required for divine tasks.

Judges 6
Gideon's test with the fleece parallels the Philistines' test with the cows, both seeking confirmation of divine will.