Biblical Reference:
Perez Uzzah is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of King David's efforts to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The account is found in 2 Samuel 6:1-8 and 1 Chronicles 13:9-11.

Etymology and Meaning:
The name "Perez Uzzah" translates to "Outburst Against Uzzah" or "Breach of Uzzah." It commemorates a divine act of judgment against Uzzah, a man who was struck down by God for touching the Ark of the Covenant.

Historical Context:
During King David's reign, he sought to bring the Ark of the Covenant from the house of Abinadab in Kiriath-jearim to Jerusalem. The Ark, which symbolized God's presence among His people, had been in Abinadab's house for many years following its return by the Philistines.

The Incident:
As described in 2 Samuel 6:6-7 , "When they came to the threshing floor of Nacon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, because the oxen had stumbled. And the anger of the LORD burned against Uzzah, and God struck him down on the spot for his irreverence, and he died there beside the ark of God."

Significance of the Event:
The incident at Perez Uzzah underscores the holiness of God and the importance of reverence in worship. The Ark was to be handled according to specific divine instructions, which included being carried by Levites using poles, as outlined in Numbers 4:15. Uzzah's action, though seemingly well-intentioned, violated these sacred instructions, leading to his immediate death.

Theological Implications:
Perez Uzzah serves as a sobering reminder of God's holiness and the seriousness with which He regards His commands. It highlights the necessity of approaching God with reverence and obedience, recognizing His authority and the sanctity of His presence.

David's Reaction:
Following Uzzah's death, David was both angry and afraid, as noted in 2 Samuel 6:8-9 : "Then David became angry because the LORD had burst forth against Uzzah; so he named that place Perez Uzzah, as it is called to this day. That day David feared the LORD and asked, 'How can the ark of the LORD ever come to me?'"

Subsequent Events:
After the incident, David temporarily halted the transport of the Ark and placed it in the house of Obed-edom the Gittite, where it remained for three months. During this time, the household of Obed-edom was blessed by the LORD, prompting David to later bring the Ark to Jerusalem with great celebration and proper adherence to God's instructions (2 Samuel 6:12-15).

Cultural and Religious Impact:
Perez Uzzah became a lasting testament to the necessity of honoring God's holiness and the proper observance of His laws. It serves as a historical and theological marker within the narrative of Israel's relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of obedience and reverence in worship practices.