Biblical Context:
The event of the Ark being brought to Jerusalem is a significant moment in the history of Israel, marking the establishment of Jerusalem as both the political and spiritual center of the nation. This event is primarily recorded in 2 Samuel 6 and 1 Chronicles 15-16. King David, having recently established his rule over all Israel and captured Jerusalem, sought to bring the Ark of the Covenant to the city, signifying God's presence and blessing upon his reign and the nation.

The Ark of the Covenant:
The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest built by the Israelites under the direction of Moses, as described in Exodus 25. It contained the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. The Ark symbolized God's covenant with Israel and His presence among His people. It was kept in the Most Holy Place within the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

David's Initial Attempt:
David's first attempt to bring the Ark to Jerusalem was marked by a lack of adherence to the prescribed method of transport. The Ark was placed on a new cart, contrary to the instructions given in the Law of Moses that it should be carried by the Levites using poles (Numbers 4:15). During this attempt, Uzzah, one of the men guiding the cart, touched the Ark to steady it and was struck dead by God for his irreverence (2 Samuel 6:6-7). This incident caused David to fear the Lord and temporarily abandon his plan, leaving the Ark at the house of Obed-edom the Gittite, where it remained for three months and brought blessing to his household (2 Samuel 6:10-11).

The Successful Transport:
After recognizing the need to follow God's instructions, David organized a second attempt to bring the Ark to Jerusalem. This time, he ensured that the Levites carried the Ark on their shoulders, as prescribed in the Law (1 Chronicles 15:15). David also prepared a grand procession with music, sacrifices, and great rejoicing. As the Ark entered the city, David danced before the Lord with all his might, wearing a linen ephod, a garment associated with priestly service (2 Samuel 6:14).

Michal's Contempt:
David's exuberant worship was met with contempt by his wife Michal, the daughter of Saul. She criticized David for what she perceived as undignified behavior, but David defended his actions, stating that he was celebrating before the Lord, who had chosen him over her father Saul (2 Samuel 6:21-22). Michal's disdain for David's worship resulted in her being childless for the rest of her life (2 Samuel 6:23).

The Ark in Jerusalem:
Upon its arrival in Jerusalem, the Ark was placed in a tent that David had prepared. David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord and blessed the people in the name of the Lord of Hosts (2 Samuel 6:17-18). He also appointed Levites to minister before the Ark, to celebrate, thank, and praise the Lord, establishing a regular pattern of worship and music (1 Chronicles 16:4-6).

Significance:
The bringing of the Ark to Jerusalem was a pivotal event that underscored the centrality of worship and obedience to God in the life of Israel. It highlighted the importance of reverence for God's holiness and the necessity of following His commands. This event also foreshadowed the establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem, which would become the permanent dwelling place for the Ark and the center of Israelite worship.