Topical Bible: Ark of the Covenant: Protecting of, Rewarded

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The Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest built by the Israelites under the guidance of Moses, is central to the religious and cultural history of Israel. It was constructed according to divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai and served as the earthly dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The Ark contained the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod that budded, and a pot of manna, symbolizing God's covenant, authority, and provision.

Protecting the Ark:

The Ark of the Covenant was not merely a religious artifact but a powerful symbol of God's presence and holiness. As such, it required careful handling and protection. The Levites, specifically the Kohathites, were entrusted with the task of carrying the Ark during the Israelites' journeys (Numbers 4:15). They were instructed to cover it with a veil, a covering of badger skins, and a cloth of blue before transporting it, ensuring that no one would touch or look upon it directly, as doing so would result in death (Numbers 4:20).

The reverence and protection of the Ark were paramount, as demonstrated in the account of Uzzah. When King David attempted to bring the Ark to Jerusalem, it was placed on a new cart, contrary to the prescribed method of transport. When the oxen stumbled, Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark and was struck dead by God for his irreverence (2 Samuel 6:6-7). This incident underscores the necessity of adhering to God's commands regarding the Ark's handling and the seriousness of protecting its sanctity.

Reward for Protecting the Ark:

The protection and proper reverence of the Ark were met with divine favor and blessing. This is exemplified in the account of Obed-Edom the Gittite. After the incident with Uzzah, David left the Ark in the house of Obed-Edom for three months. During this time, "the LORD blessed Obed-Edom and all his household" (2 Samuel 6:11). The presence of the Ark brought prosperity and blessing, indicating that those who honored and protected it were rewarded by God.

Furthermore, King David's eventual successful transport of the Ark to Jerusalem, conducted with great care and reverence, was marked by celebration and joy. David's actions in ensuring the Ark's protection and proper placement in the city of David were rewarded with God's continued favor upon his reign and the nation of Israel (2 Samuel 6:12-19).

The Ark's presence in the Holy of Holies within the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, signified God's dwelling among His people. The protection and reverence of the Ark were integral to maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel, and those who honored this sacred duty were blessed accordingly.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Chronicles 13:14
And the ark of God remained with the family of Obededom in his house three months. And the LORD blessed the house of Obededom, and all that he had.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Clearing-Up Storm in the Realm
... They have miraculous power in protecting themselves against attack, and in withholding ...
where the temple is seen opened and the ark of the covenant is seen. ...
/.../vi a clearing-up storm in the.htm

The First Epistle of St. Peter
... said, Behold the blood of the covenant which the ... abiding, good citizens, who were
frequently rewarded with crowns ... out during the construction of the ark in the ...
/.../moffat/the general epistles james peter and judas/the first epistle of st.htm