Topical Encyclopedia Nacon's Threshing Floor is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the narrative of King David's reign. This site is primarily noted for the tragic incident involving Uzzah, which is recorded in 2 Samuel 6:6-7 and 1 Chronicles 13:9-10.Biblical Account The account of Nacon's Threshing Floor is found in the context of King David's efforts to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. After securing his kingship and establishing Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel, David sought to bring the Ark, which symbolized God's presence, to the city. The Ark had been at the house of Abinadab in Kiriath-jearim for many years. The transportation of the Ark was a momentous occasion, marked by great celebration and worship. David and the Israelites placed the Ark on a new cart, driven by Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab. As they journeyed, the procession was filled with music and rejoicing. However, as they reached Nacon's Threshing Floor, the oxen pulling the cart stumbled. In an attempt to steady the Ark, Uzzah reached out his hand to hold it. The Lord's anger burned against Uzzah for his irreverent act, and God struck him down, and he died there beside the Ark. The Berean Standard Bible records this event 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." Theological Significance The incident at Nacon's Threshing Floor serves as a sobering reminder of the holiness of God and the importance of reverence in worship. The Ark of the Covenant was not merely a religious artifact; it was the earthly throne of the Almighty, representing His covenant with Israel and His holy presence among His people. The Law, as given to Moses, specified that the Ark was to be carried by the Levites using poles, not transported on a cart (Exodus 25:14-15; Numbers 4:15). Uzzah's death underscores the necessity of adhering to God's commands and the serious consequences of approaching Him with irreverence. Historical and Cultural Context Threshing floors in ancient Israel were open, flat areas where grain was separated from chaff. They were often located on elevated ground to take advantage of the wind, which would carry away the lighter chaff when the grain was tossed into the air. The mention of Nacon's Threshing Floor indicates a specific location known to the original audience, though its exact geographical location remains uncertain today. Lessons for Believers The narrative of Nacon's Threshing Floor calls believers to a deeper understanding of God's holiness and the proper way to approach Him. It highlights the importance of obedience to God's instructions and the reverence due to Him in worship. The incident also serves as a reminder of the grace available through Jesus Christ, who enables believers to approach God with confidence, yet with the reverence and awe that His holiness demands. Concordance Nacon's (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 6:6 Thesaurus Nacon's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Nacon's (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 6:6 And when they came to Nacon's grain-floor, Uzzah put his hand on the ... /n/nacon's.htm - 6k Nadab (21 Occurrences) Nacon (1 Occurrence) Grain-floor (27 Occurrences) Control (88 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |