Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionKirjath-Jearim, also known as Kiriath-Jearim, is a significant biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament. It is primarily noted for its association with the Ark of the Covenant, which was brought there after being returned by the Philistines. The town is situated in the territory of Judah, near the border with Benjamin, and is often identified with the modern site of Deir el-Azar. Biblical Significance The Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest containing the tablets of the Ten Commandments, was captured by the Philistines during a battle with Israel. After experiencing divine plagues, the Philistines returned the Ark to the Israelites, who placed it in the house of Abinadab in Kirjath-Jearim. The Ark remained there for a significant period, approximately twenty years, until King David decided to bring it to Jerusalem. David's Attempt to Move the Ark The account of David bringing the Ark from Kirjath-Jearim is detailed in 2 Samuel 6 and 1 Chronicles 13. David, desiring to establish Jerusalem as the religious and political center of Israel, sought to bring the Ark to the city. The initial attempt to transport the Ark was marked by a lack of adherence to the prescribed method of carrying it, which required it to be borne on the shoulders of the Levites using poles. In 2 Samuel 6:3-4 , it is recorded: "They set the ark of God on a new cart and brought it from the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill. Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, were guiding the new cart with the ark of God on it, and Ahio was walking in front of it." This method of transport led to a tragic incident when Uzzah touched the Ark to steady it and was struck dead by God for his irreverence. Successful Transport to Jerusalem After the initial failure, David learned from the incident and prepared to move the Ark according to the divine instructions. In 1 Chronicles 15:2 , David declared, "No one but the Levites may carry the ark of God, because the LORD has chosen them to carry the ark of the LORD and to minister before Him forever." This time, the Ark was successfully transported to Jerusalem with great celebration and reverence. Cultural and Theological Implications The events surrounding the Ark's stay in Kirjath-Jearim and its subsequent transport to Jerusalem highlight several key theological themes. The holiness of God and the importance of obedience to His commands are underscored by the incident with Uzzah. The Ark's journey also signifies the centralization of worship in Jerusalem, foreshadowing the establishment of the Temple by Solomon. Conclusion Kirjath-Jearim serves as a pivotal location in the narrative of the Ark of the Covenant, illustrating the transition from the period of the Judges to the united monarchy under David. The reverence and proper handling of the Ark underscore the necessity of approaching God with respect and adherence to His divine ordinances. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 6:1-11Again, David gathered together all the chosen men of Israel, thirty thousand. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 13:5-8 2 Chronicles 1:4 Library Importance of Small Things in Religion The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Who was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Samuel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who were Nadab and Abihu? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Kirjath-Jearim in the Territory Allotted to Judah Kirjath-Jearim or Kirjath-Baal Kirjath-Jearim: David Brings the Ark of the Covenant From Kirjath-Jearim: Inhabitants of Kirjath-Jearim: Inhabitants of, Who Were Taken Into Captivity to Babylon, Returned Kirjath-Jearim: The Ark of the Covenant Remains for Twenty Years At Kirjath-Jearim: The Philistines Bring the Ark of the Covenant To Kirjath-Jearim: Urijah, the Prophet, an Inhabitant of Related Terms Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kiriath-jearim (17 Occurrences) |
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