Introduction

The Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest built by the Israelites under the guidance of Moses, held the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments and represented the presence of God among His people. Its journey through the history of Israel is marked by significant events, one of which is its stay at Kiriath-jearim. This entry explores the biblical account of the Ark's time at Kiriath-jearim, its significance, and its impact on the Israelites.

Biblical Account

The Ark's journey to Kiriath-jearim is recorded in 1 Samuel 6 and 7. After the Philistines captured the Ark in battle and subsequently experienced divine plagues, they decided to return it to Israel. The Ark was sent back on a cart pulled by two cows, arriving at Beth-shemesh. However, due to the irreverent actions of the men of Beth-shemesh, who looked inside the Ark, the Lord struck down many of them (1 Samuel 6:19: "But God struck down some of the men of Beth-shemesh because they had looked into the Ark of the LORD. He struck down seventy men, and the people mourned because the LORD had struck them with a great slaughter.").

Fearing further calamity, the people of Beth-shemesh sent messengers to the inhabitants of Kiriath-jearim, asking them to take the Ark. The men of Kiriath-jearim came and took the Ark to the house of Abinadab on the hill, consecrating his son Eleazar to guard it (1 Samuel 7:1: "So the men of Kiriath-jearim came for the Ark of the LORD and took it into the house of Abinadab on the hill. They consecrated his son Eleazar to guard the Ark of the LORD.").

Significance

The Ark remained at Kiriath-jearim for a significant period, approximately twenty years, during which time the Israelites lamented after the Lord (1 Samuel 7:2: "And from that day a long time passed, twenty years in all, and the whole house of Israel lamented after the LORD."). This period was marked by a spiritual awakening and a return to the Lord under the leadership of Samuel. The presence of the Ark at Kiriath-jearim symbolized a time of waiting and preparation for Israel, as they turned away from idolatry and sought to renew their covenant relationship with God.

Theological Implications

The Ark's stay at Kiriath-jearim highlights several theological themes. Firstly, it underscores the holiness of God and the necessity of reverence in approaching Him. The incident at Beth-shemesh serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of treating the sacred with irreverence. Secondly, the Ark's presence at Kiriath-jearim during a time of national repentance illustrates God's patience and willingness to restore His people when they turn back to Him.

Historical and Cultural Context

Kiriath-jearim, also known as Baalah or Baale-judah, was a city in the territory of Judah, located on the border with Benjamin. Its selection as the resting place for the Ark may have been due to its strategic location and the presence of a faithful remnant willing to care for the Ark. The city's role in housing the Ark for two decades reflects its importance in the religious and cultural life of Israel during this period.

Later Developments

The Ark remained at Kiriath-jearim until King David decided to bring it to Jerusalem, as recorded in 2 Samuel 6. This event marked a new chapter in Israel's history, as the Ark was brought to the political and spiritual center of the nation, symbolizing the unification of the tribes under David's rule and the establishment of Jerusalem as the city of God.

Conclusion

The Ark at Kiriath-jearim represents a pivotal moment in Israel's history, characterized by a return to God and a renewed commitment to His covenant. Its journey from the house of Abinadab to Jerusalem under David's leadership signifies the enduring presence and guidance of God among His people.