2 Samuel 15:24

KJV

¶ And lo Zadok also, and all the Levites [were] with him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God: and they set down the ark of God; and Abiathar went up, until all the people had done passing out of the city.

KJV (with Strong's)

And lo Zadok {H6659} also, and all the Levites {H3881} were with him, bearing {H5375} the ark {H727} of the covenant {H1285} of God {H430}: and they set down {H3332} the ark {H727} of God {H430}; and Abiathar {H54} went up {H5927}, until all the people {H5971} had done {H8552} passing {H5674} out of the city {H5892}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Tzadok also came, accompanied by all the L'vi'im bearing the ark for the covenant of God. They set the ark of God down, but Evyatar went up until all the people had finished leaving the city.

Berean Standard Bible

Zadok was also there, and all the Levites with him were carrying the ark of the covenant of God. And they set down the ark of God, and Abiathar offered sacrifices until the people had passed out of the city.

American Standard Version

And, lo, Zadok alsocame, and all the Levites with him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God; and they set down the ark of God; and Abiathar went up, until all the people had done passing out of the city.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 15:24 vividly portrays a pivotal moment during King David's forced exodus from Jerusalem, fleeing the rebellion led by his son Absalom. As David sorrowfully departs, the priests Zadok and Abiathar, along with the Levites, emerge bearing the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's presence and covenantal faithfulness. Their act of bringing the Ark out of the city, and then setting it down, underscores their loyalty to David and the profound theological implications of the Ark's role amidst national crisis, setting the stage for David's subsequent decision regarding its return.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the dramatic narrative of Absalom's rebellion, which begins in [2 Samuel 15](/2_samuel/15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion Begins"). Immediately preceding this verse, David has been informed of Absalom's successful coup and the widespread defection of the people of Israel, prompting his urgent decision to flee Jerusalem to avoid bloodshed ([2 Samuel 15:13-14](/2_samuel/15-13 "2 Samuel 15:13-14 - David Flees Jerusalem")). The scene in [2 Samuel 15:24](/2_samuel/15-24 "2 Samuel 15:24 - The Ark is Brought Out") occurs as David and his loyalists are making their sorrowful exit from the city. The subsequent verses ([2 Samuel 15:25-29](/2_samuel/15-25 "2 Samuel 15:25-29 - David Sends the Ark Back")) detail David's profound decision to send the Ark back to Jerusalem, demonstrating his trust in God's sovereignty rather than relying on the Ark as a magical charm. This episode highlights David's spiritual maturity and contrasts with earlier, less faithful uses of the Ark in Israel's history.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in ancient Israel, representing God's throne, His presence, and the covenant He made with His people at Sinai. It was typically housed in the Tabernacle (and later, Solomon's Temple). Its appearance outside the city during a king's flight was highly unusual and symbolic. Priests and Levites were responsible for its care and transport, as detailed in texts like [Numbers 4](/numbers/4 "Numbers 4 - Duties of the Levites"). The presence of Zadok and Abiathar, the two chief priests, underscores the gravity of the situation and their personal loyalty to David. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the presence of divine symbols was often sought in times of war or crisis, believed to guarantee victory or divine favor. David's later decision to return the Ark challenges this common cultural understanding, emphasizing a deeper theological truth about God's presence not being confined to an object.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 2 Samuel and the broader Deuteronomistic History. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **God's enduring presence and covenant faithfulness** even amidst human rebellion and political upheaval. The Ark's appearance reminds the reader that God has not abandoned David or His people, despite their sin. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **loyalty and devotion** to the anointed king, exemplified by Zadok, Abiathar, and the Levites. Their willingness to follow David with the Ark signifies their allegiance not just to the man, but to the divine institution of kingship. Finally, it sets the stage for David's demonstration of **profound faith and submission to divine sovereignty** in the face of adversity. His subsequent decision regarding the Ark, as seen in [2 Samuel 15:25](/2_samuel/15-25 "2 Samuel 15:25 - David's Faith in Action"), reveals a king who understands that God's will is not manipulated by symbols but enacted through humble trust.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Zadok (Hebrew, _Tsadōq'_):** Meaning "righteous" or "just," Zadok was one of the two chief priests during David's reign, alongside Abiathar. His consistent loyalty to David, particularly during Absalom's rebellion and later during Adonijah's attempted usurpation ([1 Kings 1:8](/1_kings/1-8 "1 Kings 1:8 - Zadok's Loyalty to David")), ultimately led to him becoming the sole chief priest under Solomon. His name itself reflects the character of faithfulness and adherence to God's ways.
* **Ark of the Covenant (Hebrew, _ʾărôn bərît Yahweh'_):** This sacred chest was the most potent symbol of God's presence among His people, containing the tablets of the Law, Aaron's staff, and a pot of manna. Its name, "Ark of the Covenant of God," emphatically links it to the binding agreement (covenant) between Yahweh and Israel. It represented God's throne, His dwelling place, and the tangible reminder of His promises and commands, first described in [Exodus 25:10-22](/exodus/25-10 "Exodus 25:10-22 - Instructions for the Ark"). Its presence signified divine endorsement and protection, though its power was not automatic, as demonstrated by its capture by the Philistines in [1 Samuel 4:11](/1_samuel/4-11 "1 Samuel 4:11 - The Ark Captured").
* **Set down (Hebrew, _wayyannîḥū'_):** This verb implies a deliberate and purposeful action of placing something down, often with the intent of leaving it or resting it. In this context, it signifies the temporary halt of the Ark's journey, anticipating David's command for its return to Jerusalem. It is not merely a casual setting down but a significant pause in its movement, marking a moment of decision and transition.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And lo Zadok also, and all the Levites [were] with him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God:"** This opening clause introduces the dramatic appearance of the priestly contingent. The "lo" (Hebrew _hinneh_) serves as an interjection, drawing attention to the unexpected and significant sight. Zadok, as a chief priest, is highlighted, along with "all the Levites," who were the designated bearers of the Ark according to Mosaic law ([Numbers 3:31](/numbers/3-31 "Numbers 3:31 - Levites' Duty with the Ark")). Their presence with the Ark underscores their unwavering loyalty to David and their commitment to their sacred duties even in a time of national upheaval. The Ark's presence symbolizes God's covenantal faithfulness, a powerful reminder amidst the king's flight.
* **"and they set down the ark of God;"** This phrase describes the immediate action taken upon reaching David. The Ark is not kept moving but is deliberately placed down. This action is crucial as it creates a pause in the chaotic flight and sets the scene for David's momentous decision in the subsequent verses. It suggests a moment of contemplation and a recognition of the Ark's profound significance, prompting a halt to the immediate flight.
* **"and Abiathar went up, until all the people had done passing out of the city."** Abiathar, the other chief priest, is mentioned separately, perhaps indicating his role in overseeing the orderly departure of the people. The phrase "went up" could refer to his position at a higher vantage point or simply his active involvement in the process of ensuring everyone exited the city. His presence, alongside Zadok, emphasizes the unified priestly support for David. The delay in the Ark's movement allows for the entire populace loyal to David to pass out of Jerusalem, highlighting the scale of the exodus and the solemnity of the moment.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Symbolism**, with the Ark of the Covenant serving as the central symbol. It represents not only God's tangible presence and covenant with Israel but also the legitimate authority of the Davidic king. Its appearance during David's flight is a powerful visual statement of divine endorsement and the enduring nature of God's promises, even when the human situation seems dire. The scene also utilizes **Foreshadowing**, as the act of "setting down the ark" subtly hints at David's impending decision to send it back to Jerusalem, thereby foreshadowing his profound act of faith and submission to God's sovereignty. The **Juxtaposition** of the sacred Ark with the chaotic flight of the king and his people creates a poignant contrast, emphasizing the spiritual dimension of the crisis and David's reliance on God rather than mere physical symbols. The mention of specific individuals like Zadok and Abiathar also serves as **Characterization**, highlighting their loyalty and the divided loyalties within Israel during Absalom's rebellion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, though brief, is rich with theological significance. It powerfully illustrates the tension between human crisis and divine presence. The priests' act of bringing the Ark out of Jerusalem demonstrates a deeply ingrained Israelite understanding that God's presence, symbolized by the Ark, was essential for His people and His anointed king, especially in times of dire need. However, David's subsequent decision to send the Ark back reveals a more mature theological understanding: God's sovereignty and presence are not confined to a physical object, nor can divine favor be manipulated by its proximity. True faith, as exemplified by David, trusts in God's will and timing, even when it means relinquishing what might seem like a spiritual advantage. This passage thus speaks to the nature of divine immanence and transcendence, reminding believers that God is both intimately present with His people and sovereignly active beyond any human control or symbol.

* [Numbers 10:35-36](/numbers/10-35 "Numbers 10:35-36 - The Ark's Movement and God's Presence")
* [Psalm 27:1-3](/psalm/27-1 "Psalm 27:1-3 - Trust in God Amidst Adversity")
* [Jeremiah 3:16](/jeremiah/3-16 "Jeremiah 3:16 - The Future Without the Ark")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in 2 Samuel 15:24 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers facing personal or collective crises. Like David, we often desire tangible assurances of God's presence and favor, seeking "arks" in our lives—whether they be specific spiritual practices, charismatic leaders, or even physical places. This passage challenges us to move beyond a superstitious or manipulative view of God's presence. While the loyalty of Zadok and the Levites is commendable, David's subsequent decision to return the Ark teaches us that true faith is not about possessing a physical symbol, but about trusting in the invisible, sovereign God who works through all circumstances. In our own moments of upheaval, are we tempted to cling to external comforts or symbols, or do we, like David, humbly submit to God's overarching plan, trusting that His presence is with us regardless of our immediate circumstances? This verse calls us to a deeper, more mature faith that recognizes God's presence in the midst of chaos and His ability to restore, even when all seems lost. It encourages us to prioritize humble obedience and trust over perceived spiritual advantages.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might we, like the Israelites with the Ark, be tempted to rely on external symbols or rituals rather than cultivating a deeper trust in God's unseen sovereignty?**
* **How does David's willingness to send the Ark back to Jerusalem challenge our own understanding of God's presence and His work in our lives, especially during times of uncertainty or suffering?**
* **What does the loyalty of Zadok and the Levites teach us about faithfulness to God and His appointed leaders, even when circumstances are dire?**

### FAQ
**Why was the Ark of the Covenant so important to the Israelites?**

Answer: The Ark of the Covenant was paramount to the Israelites because it served as the most tangible symbol of God's presence among them and His covenant relationship with them. It was considered the earthly throne of Yahweh, where He communed with His people, particularly through the mercy seat above it ([Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God Speaks from the Mercy Seat")). It contained the tablets of the Law, representing God's commands and the terms of the covenant. Its presence was associated with divine guidance, protection, and victory, as seen in the crossing of the Jordan River ([Joshua 3](/joshua/3 "Joshua 3 - Crossing the Jordan with the Ark")) and the fall of Jericho ([Joshua 6](/joshua/6 "Joshua 6 - The Ark at Jericho")). However, its power was not automatic or magical, as tragically demonstrated when it was captured by the Philistines due to Israel's unfaithfulness ([1 Samuel 4](/1_samuel/4 "1 Samuel 4 - The Ark Captured by Philistines")).

**What was the significance of Zadok and Abiathar being present with the Ark?**

Answer: The presence of Zadok and Abiathar, the two chief priests, along with the Levites, bearing the Ark, was profoundly significant. It demonstrated their unwavering loyalty to King David and, by extension, to the legitimate, divinely appointed kingship. As chief priests, they were the spiritual leaders responsible for the Ark's care and the nation's worship. Their decision to bring the Ark out with David signified their belief that God's presence should accompany His anointed king, even in exile. This act underscored the gravity of the rebellion and the spiritual dimension of the crisis. Their loyalty also stands in contrast to the widespread defection of the people to Absalom, highlighting a faithful remnant. Later, Zadok would remain loyal to David and his lineage, eventually becoming the sole high priest under Solomon, while Abiathar would be deposed for supporting Adonijah ([1 Kings 2:26-27](/1_kings/2-26 "1 Kings 2:26-27 - Abiathar's Dismissal")).

**Why did David send the Ark back to Jerusalem in the next verses?**

Answer: David's decision to send the Ark back to Jerusalem, elaborated in [2 Samuel 15:25-29](/2_samuel/15-25 "2 Samuel 15:25-29 - David Sends the Ark Back"), was a profound act of faith and submission to God's sovereignty. He understood that God's presence was not confined to the Ark, nor was the Ark a good luck charm to guarantee his victory or safe return. David declared, "If I find favor in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me back and let me see it and his dwelling place again" ([2 Samuel 15:25](/2_samuel/15-25 "2 Samuel 15:25 - David's Faith Statement")). This demonstrated his trust that God would act according to His will, not according to human manipulation of sacred objects. By sending the Ark back, David affirmed that God's true dwelling was in Jerusalem, and his return would be by divine grace, not by the Ark's physical presence in his camp. It was an act of humble reliance on God's will, even in the face of uncertainty and potential defeat.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The poignant scene of the Ark of the Covenant being brought out during David's flight, and his subsequent decision to send it back, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The Ark, as the ultimate symbol of God's presence among His people, foreshadowed the ultimate embodiment of God with us: Jesus Christ, "Immanuel" ([Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Jesus is Immanuel")). While the Ark was a physical object, confined to a specific place, Christ is the living, omnipresent God who "became flesh and dwelt among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). David's refusal to use the Ark as a talisman, trusting instead in God's sovereign will to bring him back to Jerusalem, prefigures the New Covenant reality where God's presence is not bound by a material object or a temple, but indwells believers through the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - You Are God's Temple")). The true "Ark of the Covenant" is Christ Himself, in whom God's promises are eternally fulfilled and through whom we have access to the very presence of God, not through ritualistic proximity to a box, but through faith in His atoning sacrifice ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Thus, David's act of faith, relinquishing the symbol for reliance on the unseen God, points forward to the spiritual reality of Christ, who is our true dwelling place and the ultimate manifestation of God's enduring covenant with humanity.

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.

2 Samuel 8:17

And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, [were] the priests; and Seraiah [was] the scribe;

2 Samuel 20:25

And Sheva [was] scribe: and Zadok and Abiathar [were] the priests:

1 Samuel 22:20

¶ And one of the sons of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped, and fled after David.

2 Samuel 15:35

And [hast thou] not there with thee Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore it shall be, [that] what thing soever thou shalt hear out of the king's house, thou shalt tell [it] to Zadok and Abiathar the priests.

1 Chronicles 6:8

And Ahitub begat Zadok, and Zadok begat Ahimaaz,

1 Chronicles 6:12

And Ahitub begat Zadok, and Zadok begat Shallum,