2 Chronicles 5:9

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they drew out {H748} the staves {H905} of the ark, that the ends {H7218} of the staves {H905} were seen {H7200} from the ark {H727} before {H6440} the oracle {H1687}; but they were not seen {H7200} without {H2351}. And there it is unto this day {H3117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The poles were so long that their ends could be seen [extending] from the ark into the sanctuary, but they could not be seen from outside; they are there to this day.

Berean Standard Bible

The poles of the ark extended far enough that their ends were visible from in front of the inner sanctuary, but not from outside the Holy Place; and they are there to this day.

American Standard Version

And the staves were so long 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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 5:9 meticulously describes the climactic placement of the Ark of the Covenant within the Most Holy Place of Solomon's newly dedicated Temple. This verse underscores the profound reverence surrounding the Ark, noting that its carrying staves, though drawn out, remained visible from within the inner sanctuary but were completely hidden from those outside. This precise detail emphasizes the Ark's supreme sanctity, the exclusivity of God's dwelling place, and serves as a historical affirmation of its fixed position in the Temple at the time of the Chronicler's writing, marking a pivotal moment in Israel's worship life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the grand narrative of the dedication of Solomon's Temple, marking the culmination of its construction and preparation. The preceding verses ([2 Chronicles 5:2-8](/2_chronicles/5-2-8 "2 Chronicles 5:2-8 - Bringing the Ark to the Temple")) detail the solemn procession of Israel's leaders and the Levites bringing the Ark of the Covenant from the City of David (Zion) into the Temple. The precise installation of the Ark into its designated place in the Holy of Holies, as described in [2 Chronicles 5:9](/2_chronicles/5-9 "2 Chronicles 5:9 - Placement of the Ark's Staves"), is the immediate precursor to the glorious manifestation of God's presence, where the cloud of the Lord's glory fills the Temple, preventing the priests from ministering ([2 Chronicles 5:13-14](/2_chronicles/5-13-14 "2 Chronicles 5:13-14 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple")). This account closely parallels the narrative found in [1 Kings 8](/1_kings/8 "1 Kings 8 - Dedication of Solomon's Temple"), particularly [1 Kings 8:6-9](/1_kings/8-6-9 "1 Kings 8:6-9 - Placement of the Ark in the Temple").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in ancient Israel, symbolizing God's covenant presence among His people since the Exodus (cf. [Exodus 25:10-22](/exodus/25-10-22 "Exodus 25:10-22 - Instructions for the Ark of the Covenant")). For centuries, it had resided in the portable Tabernacle, moving with Israel through the wilderness and into the Promised Land. Solomon's Temple represented a monumental shift: the establishment of a permanent, central sanctuary in Jerusalem, signifying a new era of stability for God's dwelling among His people. The meticulous protocol surrounding the Ark's placement—its staves, used for carrying, being drawn out but still visible only from within the innermost sanctum—underscored its transition from a mobile dwelling to a fixed, permanent residence. This detail also highlights the profound cultural reverence for sacred objects and spaces, where proximity to the divine required strict adherence to prescribed rituals and boundaries, emphasizing the awe and separation associated with God's holiness.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Chronicles 5:9](/2_chronicles/5-9 "2 Chronicles 5:9 - The Ark's Final Placement") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Chronicles. Foremost is the **sacredness and centrality of the Ark of the Covenant** as the preeminent symbol of God's covenant presence and the focal point of Israelite worship. The precise description of the staves' visibility emphasizes the **sanctity and exclusivity of the Most Holy Place**, the inner sanctuary where God's presence was believed to dwell most intensely. This restricted visibility maintained an aura of mystery and awe, ensuring that God's immediate dwelling place was protected from casual or unauthorized viewing, a principle also noted in [1 Kings 8:8](/1_kings/8-8 "1 Kings 8:8 - Visibility of the Ark's Staves"). Furthermore, the verse underscores the theme of **divine dwelling and presence**, as the permanent placement of the Ark signified God's willingness to inhabit the Temple and dwell among His people, fulfilling His promises. Finally, the Chronicler's concluding remark, "And there it is unto this day," serves as a crucial **historical affirmation**, providing continuity and assurance to the original readers about the Ark's fixed location within the Temple, thereby lending authority and verisimilitude to the sacred narrative.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Staves (Hebrew, _bad'_):** (H905) These were the poles used to carry the Ark of the Covenant, explicitly commanded to remain in the rings of the Ark even when not being carried ([Exodus 25:14-15](/exodus/25-14-15 "Exodus 25:14-15 - Staves for the Ark")). The action of "drawing out" (from H748, _ʼârak_, meaning "to lengthen" or "prolong") the staves indicates they were extended as far as possible, perhaps touching the inner walls of the Most Holy Place. This act symbolically marked the Ark's transition from a portable, nomadic shrine to a fixed, permanent dwelling place in the Temple, signifying the end of its journey and the establishment of God's settled presence.
* **Oracle (Hebrew, _dᵉbîyr'_):** (H1687) This specific Hebrew term refers to the innermost sanctuary of the Temple, known as the Most Holy Place or Holy of Holies. It was the most sacred area, separated by a veil and accessible only to the High Priest, and then only once a year on the Day of Atonement ([Leviticus 16](/leviticus/16 "Leviticus 16 - The Day of Atonement")). The Ark's placement "before the oracle" means it was positioned in the very heart of this sacred space, directly beneath the cherubim whose wings overshadowed the mercy seat, emphasizing its role as the focal point of God's immediate presence.
* **Day (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** (H3117) Used in the phrase "unto this day," this word functions as a temporal marker, indicating a specific point in time. In the Chronicler's concluding remark, "And there it is unto this day," it serves as a historical affirmation, assuring the original readers that the Ark remained in its designated place within the Temple at the time the book was written. This phrase grounds the sacred history in the contemporary reality of the Chronicler's audience, providing continuity and validating the enduring significance of the Ark's installation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they drew out the staves [of the ark],"**: This initial clause describes the specific action taken by the priests regarding the Ark's carrying poles. The verb "drew out" (Hebrew: _wayya'ariku_, from _ʼârak_) implies an extension or lengthening. This action signifies the Ark's transition from a mobile object to a permanently installed fixture, marking the end of its nomadic history and its establishment in a fixed sanctuary.
* **"that the ends of the staves were seen from the ark before the oracle;"**: This highly precise detail indicates the exact positioning of the Ark within the Most Holy Place. The staves were extended to such a degree that their ends were visible from a certain vantage point within the Most Holy Place itself, specifically "before the oracle" (i.e., from the area immediately in front of where the Ark sat). This limited visibility, accessible only to the High Priest, served as a tangible reminder of the Ark's presence and its historical significance, even within the most restricted sacred space.
* **"but they were not seen without."**: This crucial qualification underscores the profound sanctity and exclusivity of the Most Holy Place. While the staves were visible to the High Priest who could legitimately enter the inner sanctuary, they were entirely hidden from anyone outside, even those in the Holy Place. This ensured that the Ark, and thus God's immediate dwelling, remained shrouded in mystery and protected from common sight, reinforcing the awe and reverence due to God's transcendent presence.
* **"And there it is unto this day."**: This concluding phrase is a characteristic Chronicler's note, serving as a powerful historical affirmation. It assures the readers that the Ark remained in its designated place within the Temple at the time the book was written, providing continuity and validating the historical account for subsequent generations. It implies the Ark's continued presence and the enduring significance of its installation as a central element of Israel's worship.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler masterfully employs several **Literary Devices** in [2 Chronicles 5:9](/2_chronicles/5-9 "2 Chronicles 5:9 - The Ark's Final Placement") to underscore the Ark's profound significance and the sanctity of the Temple. The highly specific **Narrative Detail** regarding the staves' visibility and invisibility serves to highlight the meticulous care taken in establishing God's dwelling place. This detail functions as powerful **Symbolism**, where the hiddenness of the Ark's staves from outside the Most Holy Place symbolizes the profound holiness, transcendence, and inaccessibility of God's immediate presence. Only the High Priest, acting as mediator for the nation, could approach this sacred space, reinforcing the concept of divine separation and the necessity of proper mediation. Furthermore, the concluding phrase, "And there it is unto this day," acts as a crucial **Historical Note** or **Affirmation**, grounding the sacred narrative in the contemporary reality of the Chronicler's audience and lending credibility and enduring relevance to the account of the Ark's permanent installation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The careful placement of the Ark and the specific details surrounding its staves in [2 Chronicles 5:9](/2_chronicles/5-9 "2 Chronicles 5:9 - The Ark's Final Placement") speak volumes about God's desire to dwell among His people, yet on His own terms of holiness and accessibility. The Ark, as the earthly throne of God and the repository of the covenant, represented the very heart of Israel's relationship with Yahweh. Its permanent installation in the Temple signified a new era of stable divine presence, moving beyond the transient nature of the Tabernacle. This act solidified Jerusalem as the spiritual center and the Temple as the focal point of worship, where God's glory would manifest. The restricted visibility of the staves served as a constant reminder of God's transcendence and the profound reverence required to approach His holy presence, underscoring the gap between human sinfulness and divine perfection, a gap bridged only by divine provision and strict adherence to sacred protocols. This verse powerfully illustrates the balance between God's immanence (His dwelling among His people) and His transcendence (His absolute holiness and otherness).

* [Exodus 25:10-22](/exodus/25-10-22 "Exodus 25:10-22 - Instructions for the Ark of the Covenant")
* [1 Kings 8:6-9](/1_kings/8-6-9 "1 Kings 8:6-9 - Parallel Account of Ark's Placement")
* [Hebrews 9:1-5](/hebrews/9-1-5 "Hebrews 9:1-5 - Description of the Earthly Sanctuary")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the physical Ark and Temple no longer stand, the profound theological principles embedded in [2 Chronicles 5:9](/2_chronicles/5-9 "2 Chronicles 5:9 - The Ark's Final Placement") remain profoundly relevant for believers today. This verse calls us to cultivate a deep sense of reverence and awe for God's presence. Just as the Ark's hiddenness underscored the sanctity and exclusivity of God's dwelling, we are reminded that God is holy and is to be approached with humility, respect, and a recognition of His majesty, not casually or presumptuously. For those in Christ, the physical Temple has been superseded by the spiritual reality that God's Spirit now indwells believers individually and corporately (cf. [1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Our Bodies as Temples of the Holy Spirit") and [Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21-22 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - Believers as a Holy Temple")). This means that our lives, our bodies, and our gatherings are sacred spaces where God's presence resides. Therefore, our worship, our conduct, and our interactions should reflect the profound holiness of the One who dwells within us. This verse challenges us to consider how we honor God's presence in our daily lives and in our communal worship, ensuring that our approach is marked by genuine reverence, a pursuit of purity, and a profound recognition of His supreme majesty.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed description of the Ark's placement in [2 Chronicles 5:9](/2_chronicles/5-9 "2 Chronicles 5:9 - The Ark's Final Placement") inform our understanding of God's holiness and His desire for a consecrated dwelling among His people?**
* **In what ways can we, as believers, cultivate a greater sense of reverence and awe for God's presence in our personal lives and corporate worship, knowing that we are now His spiritual temple?**
* **What "staves" or external indicators of God's presence might be "seen" by those within the "oracle" of our faith (i.e., fellow believers), but remain "unseen without" (i.e., to the world), and what is the significance of this distinction for our witness?**
* **How does the historical affirmation "unto this day" encourage us in our faith, knowing that God's promises and His enduring presence are faithful across generations?**

### FAQ
**Why were the staves of the Ark drawn out but still visible from within the oracle?**

Answer: The act of drawing out the staves (poles) signified that the Ark had reached its permanent resting place in the Most Holy Place of Solomon's Temple, no longer needing to be carried. The fact that their ends were still visible from within the "oracle" (the Most Holy Place) but "not seen without" (from the Holy Place or beyond) served multiple purposes. First, it maintained a connection to the Ark's historical journey and its original design, which included the staves for transport (cf. [Exodus 25:14-15](/exodus/25-14-15 "Exodus 25:14-15 - Staves for the Ark")). Second, and more importantly, it emphasized the extreme sanctity and exclusivity of the Most Holy Place; only the High Priest, on the Day of Atonement, would have been able to discern this detail, reinforcing the awe and mystery surrounding God's immediate presence. It visually communicated that while the Ark was settled, it remained a distinct and sacred object, not to be casually approached or viewed by unauthorized persons.

**What happened to the Ark of the Covenant after this period, as it is not present in later accounts of the Second Temple?**

Answer: The Bible does not explicitly record the ultimate fate of the Ark of the Covenant. After its placement in Solomon's Temple as described in [2 Chronicles 5:9](/2_chronicles/5-9 "2 Chronicles 5:9 - Placement of the Ark"), it is mentioned intermittently, notably during King Josiah's reforms (cf. [2 Chronicles 35:3](/2_chronicles/35-3 "2 Chronicles 35:3 - Josiah's Command Regarding the Ark")). However, it is conspicuously absent from accounts of the Second Temple (built after the Babylonian exile), and there is no mention of it being carried into exile or returned. Theories abound, suggesting it might have been hidden before the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 BC, destroyed by the Babylonians, or even taken to another location. The Ark's disappearance, however, ultimately points to a greater theological truth: with the coming of Christ, the need for a physical symbol of God's presence diminished, as God's presence is now found in a new and living way (cf. [Jeremiah 3:16](/jeremiah/3-16 "Jeremiah 3:16 - Prophecy of a Time Without the Ark")).

**What is the significance of the phrase "And there it is unto this day"?**

Answer: This phrase is a common literary device used by ancient chroniclers and historians to affirm the continued existence or status of something at the time of their writing. In [2 Chronicles 5:9](/2_chronicles/5-9 "2 Chronicles 5:9 - Placement of the Ark"), it serves as a historical note, assuring the original readers that the Ark of the Covenant remained in its designated place within the Temple. This adds a layer of authenticity and reliability to the narrative, confirming that the events described were not merely ancient legends but had enduring, tangible consequences visible to the Chronicler's audience. It grounds the sacred history in the contemporary reality of the people of Israel, providing a sense of continuity and divine faithfulness through generations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous placement of the Ark of the Covenant in the Most Holy Place, as described in [2 Chronicles 5:9](/2_chronicles/5-9 "2 Chronicles 5:9 - The Ark's Final Placement"), powerfully foreshadows the ultimate dwelling of God among humanity in the person of Jesus Christ. The Ark, with its hidden staves and restricted access, symbolized God's holy presence, veiled from common sight and approachable only through prescribed means and a mediating high priest. This earthly sanctuary, however, was but a shadow of the true and perfect tabernacle (cf. [Hebrews 9:11](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11 - Christ as High Priest of the Greater Tabernacle")). Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of all that the Ark and Temple represented: He is "Immanuel," God with us, the Word made flesh who "dwelt among us" (cf. [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). His very body became the new Temple, as He declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" (cf. [John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Speaks of His Body as the Temple")). Through His sacrificial death on the cross, Jesus, our great High Priest, entered the true heavenly sanctuary, not with the blood of animals, but with His own blood, securing eternal redemption and opening a new and living way for us to boldly approach God's presence (cf. [Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Most Holy Place")). Thus, the hiddenness of the Ark's staves gives way to the unveiled glory of God in Christ, making God's presence not only accessible but indwelling through the Holy Spirit, transforming believers into a holy temple for the Lord (cf. [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Believers as a Holy Temple")).

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

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.

1 Kings 8:9

[There was] nothing in the ark save the two tables of stone, which Moses put there at Horeb, when the LORD made [a covenant] with the children of Israel, when they came out of the land of Egypt.