1 Samuel 6:9

but keep watching it. If it goes up the road to its homeland, toward Beth-shemesh, it is the LORD who has brought on us this great disaster. But if it does not, then we will know that it was not His hand that punished us and that it happened by chance."

Study Bible

Then watch
The Hebrew word for "watch" is "ra'ah," which means to see, look at, or inspect. In this context, the Philistines are instructed to observe carefully the outcome of their test. This act of watching is not passive but involves active discernment and judgment. It reflects a moment of decision-making where human observation is used to discern divine will. Theologically, it underscores the importance of vigilance and attentiveness in understanding God's actions in our lives.

if it goes up by the way of its own territory
The phrase "goes up" is derived from the Hebrew "alah," which means to ascend or go up. The direction towards "its own territory" implies a return to the land of Israel, specifically to Beth-shemesh. This movement is significant as it symbolizes a return to the rightful place of the Ark, representing God's presence. Historically, Beth-shemesh was a Levitical city, indicating a return to spiritual order and divine favor. Theologically, it suggests that God's presence naturally gravitates towards His chosen people and places.

to Beth-shemesh
Beth-shemesh, meaning "house of the sun," was a city in the territory of Judah. Archaeologically, it has been identified with the modern site of Tell er-Rumeileh. Its mention here is significant as it was a priestly city, indicating a place where the Ark would be received with reverence and proper care. Theologically, Beth-shemesh represents a place of light and revelation, where God's presence is acknowledged and honored.

then He has done us this great evil
The "He" refers to the God of Israel, acknowledging His sovereignty and power. The term "great evil" in Hebrew is "ra'ah gedolah," indicating a significant calamity or disaster. This acknowledgment by the Philistines reflects their recognition of the divine hand in their suffering. Theologically, it highlights the concept of divine retribution and the acknowledgment of God's justice, even by those outside the covenant community.

But if not, then we will know
This phrase introduces a conditional understanding of the situation. The Philistines are seeking clarity and certainty regarding the source of their affliction. The use of "know" (Hebrew "yada") implies a deep, experiential understanding. Theologically, it reflects the human desire for certainty in discerning God's will and actions, emphasizing the importance of seeking truth and understanding in spiritual matters.

that it was not His hand that struck us
The "hand" of God is a common biblical metaphor for His power and action. The Philistines are considering the possibility that their suffering might not be a direct act of divine intervention. This reflects a broader theological theme of discerning God's involvement in the events of the world. It challenges believers to consider the nature of divine providence and the distinction between God's direct actions and natural occurrences.

it happened to us by chance
The concept of "chance" (Hebrew "miqreh") suggests randomness or coincidence. This reflects a worldview that contrasts with the biblical understanding of a sovereign God who orchestrates events according to His purpose. Theologically, this phrase challenges believers to consider the role of divine providence versus randomness in the unfolding of events. It invites reflection on the belief that nothing happens outside of God's sovereign will and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Philistines
The people who captured the Ark of the Covenant and experienced plagues as a result.

2. Ark of the Covenant
The sacred chest representing God's presence, captured by the Philistines.

3. Beth-shemesh
A town in Israelite territory where the Ark was to be returned.

4. Cows
Two milk cows were used to carry the Ark back to Israelite territory, serving as a test of divine intervention.

5. Plagues
The afflictions that struck the Philistines, prompting them to return the Ark.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty
God's control over events is evident, as the Philistines sought to determine if their suffering was by His hand or by chance.

Testing God's Will
The Philistines' test with the cows illustrates human attempts to discern God's will, reminding us to seek His guidance in our decisions.

Repentance and Acknowledgment
The Philistines' decision to return the Ark shows a recognition of God's power, prompting us to acknowledge His authority in our lives.

God's Presence and Holiness
The Ark symbolizes God's presence, reminding us of the reverence due to Him and the consequences of disregarding His holiness.

Providence Over Chance
The passage challenges the belief in chance, affirming that God orchestrates events according to His purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Philistines' experience with the Ark of the Covenant challenge our understanding of God's sovereignty in our lives?

2. In what ways can we discern God's will in our decisions, similar to the test with the cows?

3. How does the return of the Ark to Beth-shemesh illustrate the importance of acknowledging God's authority and presence?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Philistines' response to the plagues about repentance and seeking God's favor?

5. How does this passage encourage us to view events in our lives as part of God's providential plan rather than mere chance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7-12
The plagues in Egypt, similar to the plagues experienced by the Philistines, demonstrate God's power and judgment.

1 Samuel 5
Details the events leading up to the Philistines' decision to return the Ark, highlighting the severity of the plagues.

Judges 13:25
The Spirit of the Lord stirring Samson in Mahaneh-dan, near Beth-shemesh, showing the area's historical significance.

Proverbs 16:33
The concept of divine providence versus chance, as the Philistines sought to discern God's hand in their afflictions.