Background and Lineage:
Obed-Edom is a significant biblical figure known for his association with the Ark of the Covenant during the reign of King David. He is identified as a Korhite Levite, a descendant of Kohath, one of the sons of Levi. The Kohathites were entrusted with the care of the most sacred objects of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, which underscores the importance of Obed-Edom's role in biblical history.

The Ark of the Covenant:
The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. It symbolized God's presence among His people and was central to Israelite worship. During King David's reign, the Ark was being transported to Jerusalem, but an incident occurred that led to its temporary placement in the house of Obed-Edom.

David Leaves the Ark with Obed-Edom:
The narrative of Obed-Edom is primarily found in 2 Samuel 6 and 1 Chronicles 13. As David sought to bring the Ark to Jerusalem, the journey was interrupted when Uzzah, one of the men guiding the cart carrying the Ark, touched it and was struck dead by God for his irreverence. This event caused David to fear the Lord's wrath, and he decided not to bring the Ark into the City of David immediately. Instead, he left it in the care of Obed-Edom.

Scriptural Account:
According to 2 Samuel 6:10-11 , "So David was unwilling to move the ark of the LORD to the City of David; instead, he took it to the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite. Thus the ark of the LORD remained in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite for three months, and the LORD blessed him and all his household."

Blessings Upon Obed-Edom:
The presence of the Ark in Obed-Edom's house brought divine blessings. The Bible records that during the three months the Ark stayed with him, the Lord blessed Obed-Edom and all that he had. This blessing was so evident that it was reported to King David, prompting him to bring the Ark to Jerusalem with great rejoicing.

Role in Temple Service:
Obed-Edom's association with the Ark did not end with its departure from his house. He and his family continued to serve in roles related to the Ark and the temple. 1 Chronicles 15:24 mentions Obed-Edom as a gatekeeper for the Ark, and 1 Chronicles 26:4-8 lists his descendants as capable men, strong and able, who served as gatekeepers in the temple. This indicates that Obed-Edom's household was honored and entrusted with significant responsibilities in the service of the Lord.

Legacy:
Obed-Edom's account is a testament to the blessings that come from honoring and revering God's presence. His faithful service and the blessings upon his household serve as an example of the rewards of obedience and reverence for the sacred. His legacy continued through his descendants, who played vital roles in the worship and service of the temple, highlighting the enduring impact of his faithfulness.2 Samuel 6:10
So David would not remove the ark of the LORD to him into the city of David: but David carried it aside into the house of Obededom the Gittite.
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1 Chronicles 13:13,14
So David brought not the ark home to himself to the city of David, but carried it aside into the house of Obededom the Gittite.
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Why did God strike Uzzah dead for touching the Ark of the Covenant? | GotQuestions.org

Who was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of Edom in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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