Topical Bible: Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord

◄ Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Ark of the Covenant, a central and sacred object within the Tabernacle, holds profound significance in the religious life of ancient Israel. It is often referred to as the "Ark of the Covenant of the Lord" and serves as a tangible representation of God's presence and covenant with His people.

Description and Construction

The Ark was constructed according to divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, both inside and out, signifying its holiness and the divine nature of its purpose (Exodus 25:10-11). The dimensions of the Ark were two and a half cubits long, one and a half cubits wide, and one and a half cubits high. It featured a gold molding around it and was equipped with four gold rings, two on each side, through which poles were inserted for carrying (Exodus 25:12-15).

The Mercy Seat and Cherubim

The Ark's cover, known as the Mercy Seat, was also made of pure gold. Two cherubim were crafted at the ends of the Mercy Seat, facing each other with their wings spread upward, overshadowing the cover. This was the place where God promised to meet with Moses and communicate His commands for the Israelites (Exodus 25:17-22).

Contents of the Ark

The Ark housed the two stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, which were the terms of the covenant between God and Israel (Exodus 25:16). According to Hebrews 9:4, it also contained a golden jar of manna and Aaron's staff that had budded, though these items are not mentioned in the original account of the Ark's construction.

Significance and Role

The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's throne on earth. It was placed in the Most Holy Place, behind the veil, where only the high priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:2).

The Ark also played a crucial role during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and their conquest of Canaan. It was carried by the Levites and led the way, signifying God's guidance and presence with His people (Numbers 10:33-36). At the crossing of the Jordan River, the waters parted as the priests carrying the Ark stepped into the river, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground (Joshua 3:14-17).

The Ark in the Promised Land

Once the Israelites settled in the Promised Land, the Ark was housed in various locations, including Shiloh (1 Samuel 4:3-4). It was captured by the Philistines but returned after God afflicted them with plagues (1 Samuel 5-6). Eventually, King David brought the Ark to Jerusalem with great celebration, and it was placed in a tent he had prepared (2 Samuel 6:12-17).

The Ark in the Temple

The Ark found its final resting place in the Holy of Holies within Solomon's Temple. During the dedication of the Temple, the Ark was brought into the inner sanctuary, and the glory of the Lord filled the house, signifying His approval and presence (1 Kings 8:6-11).

Throughout its history, the Ark of the Covenant remained a powerful symbol of God's covenant, presence, and faithfulness to His people. Its legacy continues to inspire reverence and awe in the study of biblical history and theology.

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Joshua 4:11
And it came to pass, when all the people were clean passed over, that the ark of the LORD passed over, and the priests, in the presence of the people.
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1 Samuel 4:6
And when the Philistines heard the noise of the shout, they said, What means the noise of this great shout in the camp of the Hebrews? And they understood that the ark of the LORD was come into the camp.
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1 Samuel 6:1
And the ark of the LORD was in the country of the Philistines seven months.
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2 Samuel 6:9
And David was afraid of the LORD that day, and said, How shall the ark of the LORD come to me?
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2 Samuel 15:12
And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.
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2 Samuel 16:4
Then said the king to Ziba, Behold, your are all that pertained to Mephibosheth. And Ziba said, I humbly beseech you that I may find grace in your sight, my lord, O king.
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