2 Chronicles 1:4

KJV

But the ark of God had David brought up from Kirjathjearim to [the place which] David had prepared for it: for he had pitched a tent for it at Jerusalem.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {H61} the ark {H727} of God {H430} had David {H1732} brought up {H5927} from Kirjathjearim {H7157} to the place which David {H1732} had prepared {H3559} for it: for he had pitched {H5186} a tent {H168} for it at Jerusalem {H3389}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But the ark of God David had brought up from Kiryat-Ye'arim to the place he had prepared for it - he had set up a tent for it in Yerushalayim.

Berean Standard Bible

Now David had brought the ark of God from Kiriath-jearim to the place he had prepared for it, because he had pitched a tent for it in Jerusalem.

American Standard Version

But the ark of God had David brought up from Kiriath-jearim to the place that David had prepared for it; for he had pitched a tent for it at Jerusalem.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Chronicles 1:4 functions as a vital parenthetical clarification within the Chronicler's narrative of Solomon's early reign, immediately following the mention of his grand sacrifice at Gibeon. This verse interjects to explain that while Solomon traveled to Gibeon to offer sacrifices at the Mosaic Tabernacle, the Ark of God—the supreme symbol of Yahweh's covenant presence—was not located there. Instead, it explicitly states that King David had previously brought the Ark from Kirjathjearim to Jerusalem, where he had meticulously prepared a special tent for its dwelling, thereby establishing Jerusalem as the burgeoning spiritual heart of the nation even before the construction of the permanent Temple.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse appears as a crucial explanatory note following [2 Chronicles 1:3](/2_chronicles/1-3 "2 Chronicles 1:3 - Solomon's Sacrifice at Gibeon"), which details Solomon's journey to Gibeon to offer sacrifices at "the tabernacle of the congregation" and the bronze altar. The Chronicler, writing with a distinct theological agenda that emphasizes proper worship, the Davidic dynasty, and the centrality of Jerusalem, inserts [2 Chronicles 1:4](/2_chronicles/1-4 "2 Chronicles 1:4 - David's Provision for the Ark") to resolve a potential discrepancy for his readers. He clarifies that although the Mosaic Tabernacle was at Gibeon, the Ark of the Covenant, the very heart of Israel's worship and the most potent symbol of God's presence, was in Jerusalem. This distinction is paramount for understanding the spiritual landscape at the outset of Solomon's reign and sets the narrative stage for the eventual construction of the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem, which would finally reunite the Ark with a permanent dwelling place. The Chronicler subtly highlights David's foresight and unwavering devotion in preparing a sacred space for the Ark, underscoring the continuity of divine purpose and the spiritual legacy passed from David to Solomon.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For many decades prior to Solomon's ascension, the Ark of the Covenant had been separated from the Mosaic Tabernacle. Following its capture by the Philistines and its subsequent return to Israel, the Ark had resided at [Kirjathjearim](/1_samuel/7-1 "1 Samuel 7:1 - The Ark at Kirjathjearim") for an extended period, a time characterized by spiritual disunity and a lack of centralized, unified worship. King David, driven by a profound spiritual vision to honor God and consolidate Israel's worship, made it a paramount priority to bring the Ark to his newly established capital, Jerusalem. This momentous event, meticulously recounted in [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "2 Samuel 6 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem") and expanded upon in [1 Chronicles 15-16](/1_chronicles/15 "1 Chronicles 15 - David Organizes the Ark's Transfer") and [1 Chronicles 16](/1_chronicles/16 "1 Chronicles 16 - David's Song of Thanksgiving"), was far more than a political maneuver; it was a deeply spiritual act of national consecration. By bringing the Ark to Jerusalem and pitching a dedicated tent for it, David effectively consecrated the city as the spiritual heart of the nation, anticipating the future Temple that would solidify this sacred status. This action demonstrated David's clear understanding of the Ark's unique significance as the tangible symbol of God's covenant presence among His people.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes prominent throughout the book of Chronicles. Firstly, it underscores **The Centrality of God's Presence**, as the Ark was not merely an artifact but the preeminent symbol of Yahweh's dwelling among His people. David's meticulous effort to bring it to Jerusalem highlights his profound understanding that Israel's true strength, identity, and prosperity were intrinsically linked to the Lord's active presence and blessing. Secondly, it showcases **David's Devotion and Preparations**, portraying him as a proactive and exemplary spiritual leader whose actions laid the essential groundwork for the future Temple. His initiative in preparing a place for the Ark in Jerusalem, as recounted in [1 Chronicles 16:1](/1_chronicles/16-1 "1 Chronicles 16:1 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem"), demonstrates his fervent heart for God and his unwavering commitment to establishing proper divine worship. Lastly, the verse emphasizes **Jerusalem as the Holy City**. By bringing the Ark, David consecrated Jerusalem as both the political and spiritual capital, a status it would maintain for centuries. The temporary tent he pitched for the Ark was a significant, albeit provisional, dwelling place, directly anticipating the magnificent and permanent Temple that Solomon would eventually construct, solidifying Jerusalem's sacred identity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ark (Hebrew, _ʼârôwn'_):** From H727, meaning "a box; ark, chest, coffin." In this context, it refers specifically to the Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred object in ancient Israelite worship. It was a gold-covered wooden chest containing the tablets of the Law, a pot of manna, and Aaron's rod. More than a mere container, it symbolized God's throne and His active presence among His people, serving as the focal point of their covenant relationship with Yahweh.
* **Prepared (Hebrew, _kûwn'_):** From H3559, a primitive root meaning "to be erect (i.e. stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix, prepare, apply), or figurative (appoint, render sure, proper or prosperous)." David's action of "preparing" a place for the Ark signifies a deliberate, intentional, and well-thought-out effort to establish a proper and stable dwelling for God's presence, highlighting his foresight and commitment to divine order.
* **Tent (Hebrew, _ʼôhel'_):** From H168, meaning "a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance); covering, (dwelling) (place), home, tabernacle, tent." This refers to the temporary, portable dwelling place David erected for the Ark in Jerusalem. While not the elaborate Mosaic Tabernacle, this tent was a consecrated structure, signifying a dedicated, albeit provisional, space for the Ark, emphasizing its sacredness and the importance of its presence in the new capital.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the ark of God had David brought up from Kirjathjearim":** This initial clause serves as a crucial contrast to the Tabernacle's location at Gibeon, mentioned in the preceding verse. It highlights King David's decisive and intentional action in relocating the Ark, the preeminent symbol of God's presence, from its long-term, somewhat obscure residence in Kirjathjearim. This act was a pivotal moment in Israel's spiritual history, centralizing the focus of divine presence within the newly established capital.
* **"to [the place which] David had prepared for it":** This phrase underscores David's intentionality, foresight, and meticulous planning. The bringing of the Ark was not a spontaneous decision but part of a deliberate and well-executed plan to establish a proper and fitting dwelling for God's presence in Jerusalem. It speaks volumes about David's spiritual leadership and his deep, personal desire to honor God by providing a suitable abode for the Ark.
* **"for he had pitched a tent for it at Jerusalem":** This final clause specifies both the nature and the precise location of the Ark's new dwelling. The "tent" signifies a temporary, yet consecrated and reverent, structure, indicating that while it was not the permanent Temple, it was a dedicated and sacred space for worship and the Ark's holy presence. Placing it specifically in Jerusalem cemented the city's role as the spiritual and political capital of Israel, laying the essential groundwork for the future, permanent Temple that Solomon would construct.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler masterfully employs several literary devices in [2 Chronicles 1:4](/2_chronicles/1-4 "2 Chronicles 1:4 - David's Provision for the Ark"). Primarily, the verse functions as a **Parenthetical Note**, an explanatory insertion that clarifies the Ark's distinct location relative to the Tabernacle mentioned in [2 Chronicles 1:3](/2_chronicles/1-3 "2 Chronicles 1:3 - Solomon's Sacrifice at Gibeon"). This prevents reader confusion and emphasizes the unique, central status of Jerusalem. There is a clear **Contrast** established between the Tabernacle at Gibeon and the Ark's dwelling in Jerusalem, highlighting the unusual separation of these two central cultic objects during this period and underscoring the Ark's preeminence. Furthermore, David's act of pitching a tent for the Ark serves as significant **Foreshadowing** of the grand Temple that Solomon would eventually build. This temporary dwelling anticipates the permanent structure, linking David's preparatory work with Solomon's ultimate achievement and emphasizing the continuity of God's plan for a dwelling among His people. The verse also employs **Emphasis** through repetition, noting twice that "David had prepared" and "David had pitched," underscoring his personal devotion, active role, and the divine approval of his actions in establishing Jerusalem's spiritual significance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, though brief, carries profound theological weight, underscoring God's enduring desire to dwell among His people and the human responsibility to prepare a fitting place for His presence. David's meticulous actions in bringing the Ark to Jerusalem and preparing a tent for it reflect a deep understanding that the nation's spiritual vitality and covenant relationship were intrinsically tied to the visible symbol of God's covenant. This act was not merely about logistics but about honoring God, centralizing proper worship, and establishing Jerusalem as the chosen place for God's name to dwell. It highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan, moving from the portable Tabernacle to David's temporary tent, and ultimately to Solomon's magnificent Temple, all pointing to God's enduring commitment to be present with His people and His progressive revelation of His dwelling.

* [1 Chronicles 16:1](/1_chronicles/16-1 "1 Chronicles 16:1 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem")
* [2 Samuel 6:17](/2_samuel/6-17 "2 Samuel 6:17 - David Pitches a Tent for the Ark")
* [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God Commands a Sanctuary")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of David diligently preparing a place for the Ark of God in Jerusalem offers a timeless and profound lesson on prioritizing God's presence in our lives and communities. Just as David spared no effort to establish a fitting dwelling for the symbol of God's presence, we are called to intentionally create and cultivate space for God in our personal lives, our families, and our churches. This means actively cultivating an environment conducive to worship, prayer, diligent study of His Word, and genuine fellowship, recognizing that our hearts and our gathered communities are meant to be dwelling places for the Holy Spirit. David's devotion reminds us that true spiritual leadership and genuine faith involve proactive steps to honor God and facilitate His presence, rather than passively waiting for Him to manifest. It challenges us to critically examine what "tents" we are pitching today—what structures, habits, priorities, or intentional spaces we are building to welcome and prioritize God in our contemporary world, ensuring His presence remains central to all we do and are.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what tangible ways do I actively "prepare a place" for God's presence in my daily life and personal schedule?**
* **How does my personal worship and the communal worship I participate in reflect a genuine prioritization of God's dwelling among us?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate an environment more conducive to God's presence in my home, workplace, or local church community?**
* **How can David's example of intentional spiritual leadership inspire me to be more proactive and devoted in honoring God in my sphere of influence?**

### FAQ
**Why was the Ark not at Gibeon with the Tabernacle?**

Answer: The separation of the Ark of the Covenant from the Mosaic Tabernacle at the beginning of Solomon's reign was a unique and prolonged historical circumstance. After its capture by the Philistines and its subsequent return to Israel, the Ark spent many years at [Kirjathjearim](/1_samuel/7-1 "1 Samuel 7:1 - The Ark at Kirjathjearim") (also known as Kiriath-jearim), residing there for approximately 70 years. During this period, the Mosaic Tabernacle, with its bronze altar, was eventually moved to Gibeon ([1 Chronicles 16:39](/1_chronicles/16-39 "1 Chronicles 16:39 - Zadok at Gibeon") and [2 Chronicles 1:3](/2_chronicles/1-3 "2 Chronicles 1:3 - Solomon's Sacrifice at Gibeon")), where legitimate sacrifices continued. King David, upon establishing Jerusalem as his capital, made it a spiritual priority to bring the Ark to the new city, where he pitched a special tent for it ([2 Samuel 6:17](/2_samuel/6-17 "2 Samuel 6:17 - David Pitches a Tent for the Ark")). Thus, at the time of Solomon's accession, the Ark was in Jerusalem, while the Tabernacle was at Gibeon, a situation that persisted until the completion of Solomon's magnificent Temple, which finally brought both sacred objects together in one permanent and unified dwelling place.

**What was the significance of David pitching a tent for the Ark in Jerusalem?**

Answer: David's act of pitching a tent for the Ark in Jerusalem was profoundly significant on multiple theological and practical levels. Firstly, it demonstrated his deep personal devotion and exemplary spiritual leadership, prioritizing God's presence at the very heart of his newly established kingdom and national life. Secondly, it centralized Israel's worship, transforming Jerusalem into not just the political capital but also the undisputed spiritual hub, a status it would retain for centuries. This temporary tent served as a consecrated, albeit provisional, dwelling for the Ark, signifying God's active presence among His people in the new capital. Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, it was a crucial preparatory step for the future Temple. While David himself was not permitted to build the permanent Temple, his actions laid the essential groundwork, both spiritually and practically, for Solomon's grand construction. The tent symbolized David's earnest desire for a permanent dwelling for God, anticipating the fulfillment of that desire in the magnificent Temple that would ultimately house the Ark.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Ark of God, dwelling in David's tent in Jerusalem, serves as a powerful Old Testament foreshadowing of God's ultimate desire to dwell intimately with humanity, a desire perfectly and eternally fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. The Ark symbolized God's veiled and temporary presence among His people, confined to a physical structure. However, in Christ, God's presence is no longer confined to a tent or a physical building, but is fully and perfectly embodied in a person. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") profoundly declares, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." The Greek word for "made his dwelling" (ἐσκήνωσεν, _eskēnōsen_) literally means "pitched his tent" or "tabernacled," directly echoing the temporary dwelling of the Ark and the Mosaic Tabernacle. Jesus is the true and ultimate "tent" or tabernacle, the very presence of God in human form ([Hebrews 8:2](/hebrews/8-2 "Hebrews 8:2 - Christ, the Minister of the True Tabernacle")). Furthermore, through Christ's redemptive work, believers themselves become living temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body, a Temple of the Holy Spirit")), signifying that God's dwelling place is now within His redeemed people, not just in a physical structure. This glorious journey culminates in the New Jerusalem, where there will be no need for a temple because "the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple" ([Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - No Temple in New Jerusalem")), and God will dwell directly and intimately with His people forever ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling with Humanity")). Thus, David's humble tent points forward to the glorious reality of God's permanent, personal, and intimate dwelling with humanity through Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of all divine presence.

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

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.

2 Samuel 6:17

And they brought in the ark of the LORD, and set it in his place, in the midst of the tabernacle that David had pitched for it: and David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD.

1 Chronicles 15:25

¶ So David, and the elders of Israel, and the captains over thousands, went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the house of Obededom with joy.

1 Chronicles 15:28

Thus all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the LORD with shouting, and with sound of the cornet, and with trumpets, and with cymbals, making a noise with psalteries and harps.

1 Chronicles 15:1

¶ And [David] made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent.

1 Chronicles 16:1

¶ So they brought the ark of God, and set it in the midst of the tent that David had pitched for it: and they offered burnt sacrifices and peace offerings before God.

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.