1 Chronicles 15:15

KJV

And the children of the Levites bare the ark of God upon their shoulders with the staves thereon, as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the children {H1121} of the Levites {H3881} bare {H5375} the ark {H727} of God {H430} upon their shoulders {H3802} with the staves {H4133} thereon, as Moses {H4872} commanded {H6680} according to the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and the L'vi'im carried the ark of God on their shoulders with the poles on it, as Moshe had ordered, according to what ADONAI had said.

Berean Standard Bible

And the Levites carried the ark of God on their shoulders with the poles, as Moses had commanded in accordance with the word of the LORD.

American Standard Version

And the children of the Levites bare the ark of God upon their shoulders with the staves thereon, as Moses commanded according to the word of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 15:15 chronicles a pivotal moment in David's reign, detailing the successful and divinely prescribed method for transporting the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. Following the tragic failure of an earlier attempt due to improper handling, this verse highlights David's humble return to God's explicit commands, emphasizing that the Ark was to be carried by the Levites on their shoulders using its staves, precisely as Moses had been instructed by the Lord. It underscores the profound importance of obedience, reverence for God's holiness, and the specific roles ordained for sacred service.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the narrative of King David's second, successful attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. It immediately follows David's meticulous preparations, including the sanctification of the Levites and the careful selection of musicians ([1 Chronicles 15:1-14](/1_chronicles/15-1-14 "1 Chronicles 15:1-14 - David's Preparations for the Ark")). The preceding chapter, [1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - The First Attempt to Move the Ark"), recounts the disastrous first attempt where the Ark was transported on a new cart, leading to the death of Uzzah when he touched it to steady it ([1 Chronicles 13:9-10](/1_chronicles/13-9-10 "1 Chronicles 13:9-10 - Uzzah's Death and Its Consequences")). This stark contrast between the two attempts underscores the profound lesson David learned about the necessity of adhering to God's precise instructions for handling sacred things. Chapter 15, therefore, is a narrative of repentance, careful obedience, and renewed reverence, culminating in the joyful entry of the Ark into Jerusalem ([1 Chronicles 15:25-29](/1_chronicles/15-25-29 "1 Chronicles 15:25-29 - The Ark Enters Jerusalem with Joy")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in ancient Israel, symbolizing God's presence among His people. It contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's staff, and a pot of manna, representing God's covenant, His authority, and His provision. Its proper handling was not a matter of human preference but divine command, rooted in the Mosaic Law given at Sinai. The Levites, specifically the Kohathite clan, were divinely appointed to carry the Ark and other sanctuary furnishings ([Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Kohathites to Carry Holy Things")). The incident with Uzzah served as a severe reminder of God's holiness and the consequences of treating sacred things casually or outside of His prescribed methods. David's actions in [1 Chronicles 15](/1_chronicles/15 "1 Chronicles 15 - David Prepares to Bring the Ark") reflect a return to the foundational principles of Israelite worship established in the wilderness, acknowledging God's absolute sovereignty and the need for meticulous obedience in approaching Him.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme in [1 Chronicles 15](/1_chronicles/15 "1 Chronicles 15 - David Prepares to Bring the Ark") and particularly in verse 15 is the **absolute necessity of obedience to God's revealed will**. The phrase "as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD" is paramount, emphasizing that the method of bearing the Ark was not arbitrary but divinely ordained, serving as a timeless principle for approaching God. This verse also highlights the theme of **reverence and holiness**, demonstrating a renewed respect for the sacred after the tragic lesson of Uzzah's death. David's humility in correcting his error and ensuring the Ark was moved according to the Law exemplifies the theme of **learning from mistakes and humble submission to divine authority**. Finally, it reaffirms **the specific and unique role of the Levites** in sacred service, underscoring that God designates particular individuals and methods for His worship, a principle found throughout the Pentateuch, such as in [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Kohathites' Duty to Carry the Ark").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **bare (Hebrew, _nâsâʼ'_):** The verb נָשָׂא (nâsâʼ) means "to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative; accept, advance, arise, (able to, (armor), suffer to) bear(-er, up)." In this context, it specifically refers to the physical act of carrying a heavy object. Its use here emphasizes the direct, physical responsibility of the Levites in transporting the Ark, directly contrasting with the previous attempt where the Ark was placed on a cart. This word highlights the personal, dedicated service required, signifying a burden willingly taken up.
* **shoulders (Hebrew, _kâthêph'_):** The Hebrew כָּתֵף (kâthêph) refers to "the shoulder (proper, i.e. upper end of the arm; as being the spot where the garments hang); figuratively, side-piece or lateral projection of anything." The explicit mention of "shoulders" underscores the precise, divinely ordained method of transport. It was not merely about carrying, but about carrying in the prescribed manner, demonstrating full compliance with God's instructions and the personal exertion required for sacred service.
* **commanded (Hebrew, _tsâvâh'_):** The verb צָוָה (tsâvâh) is a primitive root meaning "(intensively) to constitute, enjoin; appoint, (for-) bid, (give a) charge, (give a, give in, send with) command(-er, -ment), send a messenger, put, (set) in order." The repetition of this concept ("as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD") underscores the divine origin and unchangeable nature of the instructions regarding the Ark's transport. It was not a human invention or a suggestion, but a direct, binding directive from God Himself, conveyed through Moses, emphasizing divine authority and the non-negotiable nature of the command.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the children of the Levites bare the ark of God":** This clause identifies the specific individuals responsible for carrying the Ark. The "children of the Levites" refers to the entire tribe of Levi, who were set apart for sacred service, highlighting the importance of designated roles in God's service and the fact that not just anyone could handle the Ark. Their act of "bearing" signifies a direct, personal, and responsible engagement with the sacred object, a physically demanding task demonstrating their consecrated role.
* **"upon their shoulders with the staves thereon":** This phrase details the precise, divinely ordained method of transport. The Ark was not to be pulled by animals or placed on a cart, but carried by human beings—the Levites—on their shoulders. The "staves" were essential for this, serving as the means by which the Ark was lifted and carried without direct human contact with the Ark itself, emphasizing both the practical method and the preservation of the Ark's sanctity as a symbol of God's holy presence.
* **"as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD":** This crucial concluding phrase provides the theological justification and ultimate authority for the method employed. It explicitly states that the instructions followed were not David's innovation or a human tradition, but direct divine revelation given to Moses. This underscores the principle that God's commands for worship and sacred service are to be followed precisely, as they originate from His holy character and sovereign will, thus validating the meticulous obedience shown.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices to convey its powerful message. **Emphasis** is achieved through the explicit and repeated declaration that the Ark was carried "as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD." This phrase serves as a thematic anchor, highlighting the central importance of divine instruction and obedience, leaving no doubt about the source of the authority. **Contrast** is implicitly present, drawing a sharp distinction between this successful, obedient attempt and the previous, tragic failure recounted in [1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - The First Attempt to Move the Ark"). This contrast underscores the severe consequences of disobedience versus the blessings of adherence to God's will. **Symbolism** is inherent in the Ark itself, which represents God's holy presence among His people. The meticulous care in its handling symbolizes the reverence and awe due to God. Furthermore, the **repetition** of the concept of divine command reinforces the absolute authority of God's word and the non-negotiable nature of His instructions for sacred matters.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 15:15 is a profound theological statement on the nature of God's holiness and the proper human response to it. It teaches that God is not to be approached on human terms or with human ingenuity, but strictly according to His revealed will. The tragic lesson of Uzzah's death, followed by David's humble and meticulous obedience, illustrates that God's commands are not arbitrary rules but expressions of His character and for the good of His people. True worship and service require not just sincerity of heart, but also adherence to divine truth and order. This principle of obedience to God's specific instructions for sacred things resonates throughout Scripture, affirming that God's glory is best revealed when His people walk in His ways and that His holiness demands reverence and careful adherence to His statutes.

* [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Kohathites' Duty to Carry Holy Things")
* [Exodus 25:14](/exodus/25-14 "Instructions for the Ark's Staves")
* [Deuteronomy 12:32](/deuteronomy/12-32 "Do Not Add or Subtract from God's Word")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous obedience displayed in 1 Chronicles 15:15 offers timeless lessons for believers today. While we are no longer under the Old Covenant Law with its specific ritualistic commands, the underlying principles of reverence, obedience, and learning from error remain profoundly relevant. This verse challenges us to consider how we approach God in our worship, our service, and our daily lives. Do we seek to understand and adhere to His revealed will in Scripture, or do we rely on our own wisdom, convenience, or cultural norms? David's example reminds us that true blessing and divine favor flow from humble submission to God's authority, even when our past attempts have fallen short. It calls us to a posture of intentionality and respect, recognizing the holiness of God and the seriousness of our walk with Him, ensuring that our lives reflect a genuine desire to honor Him in all things and to pursue His ways with diligent care.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or service do I tend to rely on my own understanding rather than seeking God's specific instructions from His Word?**
* **How does the story of Uzzah and David's subsequent obedience challenge my understanding of God's holiness and the importance of reverence in my own spiritual walk?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper respect for God's Word and a more intentional approach to worship and obedience in my daily life?**

### FAQ
**Why was it so important for the Ark to be carried this specific way, rather than on a cart?**

Answer: The specific method of carrying the Ark on the shoulders of the Levites, using the staves, was not arbitrary but divinely commanded. This instruction was given by God to Moses in the wilderness, detailed in passages like [Exodus 25:14](/exodus/25-14 "Instructions for the Ark's Staves") and [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Kohathites to Carry Holy Things"). The significance lies in several factors:
1. **God's Holiness:** The Ark represented God's holy presence. Direct contact with it by unauthorized persons or through unauthorized means was forbidden to emphasize God's absolute transcendence and holiness. The staves ensured the Ark itself was not touched, maintaining its sacred separation.
2. **Divine Authority:** God's commands are expressions of His sovereign will. To deviate from them, even with good intentions (like Uzzah's attempt to steady the Ark), was an act of disobedience and disrespect for His authority. God's ways are higher than human ways ([Isaiah 55:8-9](/isaiah/55-8-9 "Isaiah 55:8-9 - God's Thoughts and Ways Are Higher")).
3. **Designated Roles:** God appointed specific individuals (the Kohathite Levites) for this sacred task. This underscored the principle that sacred service is not for everyone, but for those specially called and consecrated, functioning within God's established order ([Numbers 1:50-53](/numbers/1-50-53 "Numbers 1:50-53 - Levites Set Apart for Tabernacle Service")).
4. **Learning and Remembrance:** The meticulous process of carrying the Ark served as a constant reminder to the Israelites of God's detailed requirements for worship and their covenant relationship with Him. The tragic outcome of the first attempt ([1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - The First Attempt to Move the Ark")) served as a severe lesson on the consequences of neglecting divine instructions.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 15:15 details Old Covenant obedience, it powerfully foreshadows the New Covenant reality in Christ. The Ark, representing God's presence and the means of approaching Him, points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment. No longer do we need an earthly Ark or a specific tribe to mediate God's presence, for in Christ, God Himself has drawn near to us, becoming Immanuel, "God with us" ([Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us")). Jesus is the true "Ark of the Covenant," embodying God's presence, His Law, and His mercy. Through His perfect obedience, even to death on the cross, Christ fulfilled all of God's righteous requirements, becoming our access point to the Father ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access to God Through Christ")). The meticulous care required for the Ark underscored humanity's inability to approach a holy God on its own terms; Christ, however, perfectly bore the weight of our sin on His shoulders, not with staves, but by His own divine power and sacrificial love, making a way for us. He is the one who "takes away the sin of the world" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), allowing us to approach God with confidence, not through ritualistic carrying, but through faith in His finished work ([Ephesians 2:18](/ephesians/2-18 "Ephesians 2:18 - Access to the Father Through Christ")). In Christ, the emphasis shifts from external obedience to internal transformation, enabling us to worship God "in spirit and in truth" ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")), for He has made us priests in His kingdom ([Revelation 1:6](/revelation/1-6 "Revelation 1:6 - Made Us Kings and Priests")), granting us direct access to the Holy of Holies through His shed blood ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ, the High Priest of the New Covenant")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 4:15

And when Aaron and his sons have made an end of covering the sanctuary, and all the vessels of the sanctuary, as the camp is to set forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to bear [it]: but they shall not touch [any] holy thing, lest they die. These [things are] the burden of the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation.

Numbers 7:9

But unto the sons of Kohath he gave none: because the service of the sanctuary belonging unto them [was that] they should bear upon their shoulders.

Exodus 25:12

And thou shalt cast four rings of gold for it, and put [them] in the four corners thereof; and two rings [shall be] in the one side of it, and two rings in the other side of it.

Exodus 25:15

The staves shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it.

1 Kings 8:8

And they drew out the staves, that the ends of the staves were seen out in the holy [place] before the oracle, and they were not seen without: and there they are unto this day.

2 Chronicles 5:9

And they drew out the staves [of the ark], that the ends of the staves were seen from the ark before the oracle; but they were not seen without. And there it is unto this day.

Exodus 37:3

And he cast for it four rings of gold, [to be set] by the four corners of it; even two rings upon the one side of it, and two rings upon the other side of it.