1 Samuel 7:1

KJV

¶ And the men of Kirjathjearim came, and fetched up the ark of the LORD, and brought it into the house of Abinadab in the hill, and sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the men {H582} of Kirjathjearim {H7157} came {H935}, and fetched up {H5927} the ark {H727} of the LORD {H3068}, and brought {H935} it into the house {H1004} of Abinadab {H41} in the hill {H1389}, and sanctified {H6942} Eleazar {H499} his son {H1121} to keep {H8104} the ark {H727} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So the men of Kiryat-Ye'arim came and brought back the ark of ADONAI. They took it to the home of Avinadav on the hill and appointed his son El'azar to guard the ark of ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

Then the men of Kiriath-jearim came for the ark of the LORD and took it into Abinadab’s house on the hill. And they consecrated his son Eleazar to guard the ark of the LORD.

American Standard Version

And the men of Kiriath-jearim came, and fetched up the ark of Jehovah, and brought it into the house of Abinadab in the hill, and sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
After its tumultuous journey and the devastating judgment upon Beth-shemesh for their irreverence, 1 Samuel 7:1 describes the Ark of the LORD finding a temporary, yet long-term, resting place. The men of Kirjath-jearim, responding to the plea of Beth-shemesh, retrieve the sacred Ark and bring it to the house of Abinadab, a resident of their town. Here, Abinadab's son, Eleazar, is consecrated and set apart for the specific, solemn duty of guarding and caring for this most holy symbol of God's presence among His people. This arrangement marks a period of provisional care for the Ark, highlighting both the ongoing spiritual decline in Israel and God's faithfulness to preserve His presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a crucial transition in the narrative of the Ark of the LORD, following a series of dramatic and tragic events. In [1 Samuel 4](/1_samuel/4 "1 Samuel 4 - The Ark Captured"), the Ark was captured by the Philistines during a battle, a consequence of Israel's unfaithfulness and the corrupt priesthood of Eli's sons. Its presence among the Philistines, however, brought severe judgment and plagues upon their cities ([1 Samuel 5](/1_samuel/5 "1 Samuel 5 - The Ark Among the Philistines")), leading them to return it to Israelite territory on a new cart ([1 Samuel 6](/1_samuel/6 "1 Samuel 6 - The Ark Returned")). Upon its arrival in Beth-shemesh, many Israelites died because they irreverently looked into the Ark ([1 Samuel 6:19](/1_samuel/6-19 "1 Samuel 6:19 - Judgment at Beth-shemesh")), demonstrating that God's holiness was dangerous to both Philistines and Israelites when treated with disrespect. Overwhelmed and fearful, the people of Beth-shemesh sent messengers to Kirjath-jearim, requesting that they take the Ark. Thus, [1 Samuel 7:2](/1_samuel/7-2 "1 Samuel 7:2 - Twenty Years in Kirjath-jearim") describes the response to this plea, initiating a new, albeit prolonged, phase of the Ark's journey, where it would remain for approximately twenty years until King David eventually brought it to Jerusalem ([2 Samuel 6:12](/2_samuel/6-12 "2 Samuel 6:12 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of 1 Samuel 7:1 unfold during the tumultuous period of the Judges, a time characterized by spiritual apostasy, moral decay, and a lack of central leadership, as famously summarized by the phrase, "everyone did what was right in his own eyes" ([Judges 21:25](/judges/21-25 "Judges 21:25 - Everyone Did What Was Right")). The Philistines were a dominant power, often oppressing Israel. The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in Israel, representing God's throne and His covenant presence with His people. It was meant to reside in the Tabernacle, cared for by the Levitical priesthood according to strict Mosaic Law ([Exodus 25:10-22](/exodus/25-10 "Exodus 25:10-22 - Instructions for the Ark")). However, at this time, the Tabernacle system was in disarray, and the priesthood was corrupt. Kirjath-jearim was a Gibeonite city (Joshua 9:17) located on the border between Judah and Benjamin, which may have made it a practical choice for the Ark's temporary relocation, perhaps seen as a neutral or accessible site given the circumstances. The act of "sanctifying" Eleazar, though not a formal Levitical ordination, underscores the desperate need for someone to care for the Ark in the absence of proper ecclesiastical order.

* **Key Themes:** The narrative surrounding the Ark in 1 Samuel 7:1 powerfully underscores several enduring themes. Foremost is the absolute necessity of **reverence for God's presence**. Both the Philistines and the Israelites of Beth-shemesh faced severe divine judgment for treating the Ark—and by extension, God Himself—with irreverence, highlighting that God's holiness demands respect from all, regardless of covenant status. This incident also showcases **God's enduring faithfulness despite Israel's failures**. Even in a period of spiritual decline and disorganization, God providentially arranges for the Ark, the symbol of His covenant presence, to be preserved and cared for, albeit in an unconventional manner. The "sanctification" of Eleazar points to the theme of **consecration for sacred duties**, emphasizing that while formal structures may have broken down, the principle of setting apart individuals for holy service remains vital. This provisional care also subtly highlights the **need for proper leadership and a central sanctuary**, foreshadowing the roles of Samuel, Saul, and ultimately David in restoring Israel's spiritual order and bringing the Ark to its proper dwelling place in Jerusalem.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ark (Hebrew, _'aron_):** This term refers to the Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred object in Israelite worship. Constructed according to God's precise instructions ([Exodus 25:10-22](/exodus/25-10 "Exodus 25:10-22 - Construction of the Ark")), it contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's staff, and a pot of manna. More significantly, it was the place where God's presence was manifested above the mercy seat, between the cherubim ([Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God Speaks from the Mercy Seat")). Its presence symbolized God's covenant with Israel, His power, and His holiness. The events leading up to 1 Samuel 7:1 demonstrate that the Ark was not a mere good luck charm but a potent symbol of God's active, holy presence, bringing blessing when revered and judgment when disrespected.
* **Sanctified (Hebrew, _qadash_):** The Hebrew verb _qadash_ means "to make holy," "to set apart," "to consecrate," or "to dedicate." In this context, it signifies that Eleazar was formally designated and set apart for a sacred task: the care of the Ark of the LORD. While Eleazar was not a Levite, and thus not formally qualified for priestly duties according to Mosaic Law, his "sanctification" here indicates a practical, necessary consecration. It was an act of dedication, acknowledging the Ark's holiness and the serious responsibility of its guardianship in a period when the established priestly system was in disarray. This highlights the urgency and importance of providing proper care for God's holy presence, even if it required unconventional means.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the men of Kirjathjearim came, and fetched up the ark of the LORD":** This clause describes the response of the people of Kirjath-jearim to the desperate plea from Beth-shemesh. Their willingness to come and retrieve the Ark, despite the recent devastating judgments associated with it, suggests a degree of reverence or perhaps a pragmatic acceptance of a difficult responsibility. The act of "fetching up" implies a careful, perhaps even reverent, approach to the sacred object, contrasting with the carelessness seen at Beth-shemesh.
* **"and brought it into the house of Abinadab in the hill":** The Ark is brought to a private residence, specifically the house of Abinadab. This marks a significant departure from its intended dwelling in the Tabernacle. The phrase "in the hill" might suggest that Abinadab's house was situated on an elevated place, perhaps for security or prominence, or simply denotes its location within the town. This private residence would become the Ark's home for approximately two decades, a testament to the spiritual disarray in Israel and the lack of a proper central sanctuary.
* **"and sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD":** This final clause details the specific arrangement for the Ark's care. Abinadab's son, Eleazar, is "sanctified" or consecrated for the specific duty of guarding the Ark. This was a crucial step, acknowledging the Ark's holiness and the need for a designated caretaker. While Eleazar was not a Levitical priest, this act of setting him apart underscores the profound importance of treating God's presence with utmost respect and diligence, even when formal religious structures were compromised. His role was to ensure the Ark's safety and prevent further incidents of irreverence.

#### Literary Devices
1 Samuel 7:1 employs several literary devices. **Narrative Transition** is prominent, as this verse marks a significant shift in the Ark's journey, from its tumultuous encounters with the Philistines and the judgment at Beth-shemesh to a period of stable, albeit provisional, residence. This transition sets the stage for the subsequent narrative, particularly Samuel's leadership and the eventual establishment of the monarchy. The **Symbolism** of the Ark itself is central; it is not merely a box but represents God's active, holy presence among His people. The events surrounding its journey continually emphasize the profound implications of God's presence for both blessing and judgment. Furthermore, the long, temporary stay of the Ark in a private home can be seen as **Foreshadowing** the eventual need for a permanent, dedicated dwelling place—the Temple in Jerusalem—and the role of a righteous king, David, in bringing it there. The contrast between the irreverence of Beth-shemesh and the (at least initially) respectful actions of Kirjath-jearim and the consecration of Eleazar also serves as a subtle **Contrast**, highlighting the varying degrees of understanding and respect for God's holiness among the Israelites.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The Ark's journey to Kirjath-jearim and its long stay in Abinadab's house underscore God's enduring faithfulness to His covenant people, even when they are unfaithful and disorganized. Despite the spiritual decline and the breakdown of proper priestly order, God ensures that the symbol of His presence is preserved and cared for. This provisional arrangement highlights the principle that God's holiness demands reverence and careful handling, regardless of the circumstances. It also serves as a poignant reminder that God's presence, while a source of blessing, is also a consuming fire for those who treat it lightly. The "sanctification" of Eleazar, though unconventional, points to the universal call to set apart individuals for sacred service, recognizing that God can use even imperfect means to accomplish His purposes when His people respond with a measure of obedience and respect.

* [Exodus 25:10-22](/exodus/25-10 "Exodus 25:10-22 - Instructions for the Ark of the Covenant")
* [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Priestly Duties for the Ark")
* [2 Samuel 6:6-7](/2_samuel/6-6 "2 Samuel 6:6-7 - Uzzah's Death for Touching the Ark")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of the Ark's journey to Kirjath-jearim offers profound lessons for believers today. Just as the Ark symbolized God's presence among ancient Israel, so too does the Holy Spirit indwell believers, making our bodies temples of God ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). This divine indwelling calls us to a life of profound reverence and holiness. We are to "sanctify" ourselves, setting apart our lives, thoughts, words, and actions for God's glory, recognizing that His presence within us demands a consecrated walk. Like Eleazar, we are entrusted with guarding something precious—not a physical Ark, but the spiritual truths of the Gospel, the purity of our faith, and the integrity of our witness in the world. This requires diligence, a deep respect for God's holiness, and a commitment to living in a manner worthy of His indwelling presence, avoiding both careless irreverence and presumptuous familiarity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I cultivate a deeper sense of reverence for God's presence in my daily life?**
* **In what specific areas of my life am I called to be "sanctified" or set apart for God's purposes?**
* **What spiritual "treasures" (e.g., God's Word, my testimony, the church community) has God entrusted to me to "keep" or guard diligently?**

### FAQ
**Why was the Ark taken to Kirjath-jearim specifically, and not back to the Tabernacle or a priestly city?**

Answer: The Ark was taken to Kirjath-jearim primarily out of necessity and the desperate plea from Beth-shemesh, whose people had suffered severe judgment for their irreverence. At this time, the central Tabernacle was likely at Shiloh, but it had been largely abandoned or destroyed following the Philistine defeat in [1 Samuel 4](/1_samuel/4 "1 Samuel 4 - The Ark Captured"). The priesthood was also in disarray due to the corruption of Eli's sons and the subsequent judgment. Kirjath-jearim was a Gibeonite city (Joshua 9:17) located on the border of Judah and Benjamin, which may have made it a practical and accessible location for the Ark's temporary relocation. While it was a Levitical city, the text does not indicate that Abinadab or Eleazar were Levites. This suggests a pragmatic, provisional solution in a period of spiritual and governmental breakdown, highlighting the urgency of providing a safe, albeit unconventional, dwelling for the sacred Ark when formal structures were failing.

**Was Eleazar a legitimate priest, and was his "sanctification" a proper ordination?**

Answer: The text does not explicitly state Eleazar's lineage, but it is generally understood that he was not a Levitical priest in the formal sense required by Mosaic Law for handling the Ark ([Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Levites to Carry the Ark")). His "sanctification" was not a formal priestly ordination but rather an act of practical consecration, setting him apart for the specific, solemn duty of guarding the Ark. This arrangement was provisional, born out of the desperate circumstances and the breakdown of proper priestly order during the period of the Judges. It demonstrates that in times of spiritual disarray, God can providentially use individuals and unconventional means to ensure the preservation of His holy things, even if the formal requirements of the Law cannot be fully met. It highlights the principle of dedication to sacred service, even when formal structures are compromised.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Ark of the Covenant, a tangible symbol of God's presence among His people, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. The Ark, with its mercy seat, was the place where God met with His people and atonement was made for sins ([Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God Speaks from the Mercy Seat")). Christ is the true "mercy seat" (propitiation) through His blood, where God's justice and mercy perfectly meet ([Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ Our Propitiation")). The temporary and provisional care of the Ark by Eleazar in a private home in Kirjath-jearim points to the profound truth that God's ultimate dwelling place is not in a man-made structure or through human-appointed caretakers, but in the incarnate Son. Jesus is Immanuel, "God with us" ([Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us")), the true Tabernacle where God's glory dwells in human flesh ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). He is the ultimate High Priest ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Our Great High Priest")) who perfectly sanctifies His people and brings them into intimate, permanent fellowship with God, a reality far surpassing the temporary guardianship of Eleazar. Through Christ's finished work, God's presence now indwells believers through the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")), making us living temples, a fulfillment that the physical Ark could only foreshadow.

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

Psalms 132:6

Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood.

Isaiah 52:11

Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean [thing]; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the LORD.

1 Chronicles 13:5

So David gathered all Israel together, from Shihor of Egypt even unto the entering of Hemath, to bring the ark of God from Kirjathjearim.

1 Chronicles 13:7

And they carried the ark of God in a new cart out of the house of Abinadab: and Uzza and Ahio drave the cart.

Joshua 18:14

And the border was drawn [thence], and compassed the corner of the sea southward, from the hill that [lieth] before Bethhoron southward; and the goings out thereof were at Kirjathbaal, which [is] Kirjathjearim, a city of the children of Judah: this [was] the west quarter.

1 Samuel 6:21

And they sent messengers to the inhabitants of Kirjathjearim, saying, The Philistines have brought again the ark of the LORD; come ye down, [and] fetch it up to you.

2 Samuel 6:2

And David arose, and went with all the people that [were] with him from Baale of Judah, to bring up from thence the ark of God, whose name is called by the name of the LORD of hosts that dwelleth [between] the cherubims.