2 Samuel 6:11

KJV

And the ark of the LORD continued in the house of Obededom the Gittite three months: and the LORD blessed Obededom, and all his household.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the ark {H727} of the LORD {H3068} continued {H3427} in the house {H1004} of Obededom {H5654} the Gittite {H1663} three {H7969} months {H2320}: and the LORD {H3068} blessed {H1288} Obededom {H5654}, and all his household {H1004}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The ark of ADONAI stayed in the house of 'Oved-Edom the Gitti for three months; and ADONAI blessed 'Oved-Edom and all his household.

Berean Standard Bible

Thus the ark of the LORD remained in the house of Obed-edom the Gittite for three months, and the LORD blessed him and all his household.

American Standard Version

And the ark of Jehovah remained in the house of Obed-edom the Gittite three months: and Jehovah blessed Obed-edom, and all his house.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following the tragic death of Uzzah, King David, in awe and fear of the Lord's holiness, diverted the Ark of the Covenant to the nearby home of Obed-Edom the Gittite. For a period of three months, the Ark, which uniquely symbolized God's manifest presence among His people, resided there. During this time, the Lord poured out comprehensive and tangible blessings upon Obed-Edom and his entire household, powerfully demonstrating that divine presence, when reverently received and honored, brings profound favor, prosperity, and flourishing. This remarkable period served as a vivid testament to God's desire to bless those who approach His sacred presence with due reverence, ultimately encouraging David to complete the Ark's journey to Jerusalem with proper protocol.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a crucial narrative pivot within [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "2 Samuel 6 - The Ark Brought to Jerusalem"), which recounts David's initial, fraught attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The chapter begins with David's enthusiastic but ultimately misguided effort to transport the Ark on a new cart, a method explicitly contrary to Mosaic law, which mandated that Levites carry it on poles ([Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Handling the Ark")). This improper approach culminates in the divine judgment upon Uzzah, who touched the Ark to steady it as the oxen stumbled ([2 Samuel 6:6-7](/2_samuel/6-6 "2 Samuel 6:6-7 - Uzzah's Death for Touching the Ark")). This terrifying event instilled great fear in David, causing him to abandon the immediate plan to bring the Ark to Jerusalem ([2 Samuel 6:9-10](/2_samuel/6-9 "2 Samuel 6:9-10 - David's Fear and Diversion of the Ark")). Instead, the Ark was diverted to the nearby house of Obed-Edom the Gittite, where it remained for three months. This period sets the stage for the remarkable demonstration of God's blessing described in [2 Samuel 6:11](/2_samuel/6-11 "2 Samuel 6:11 - The Ark Blesses Obed-Edom"), which subsequently emboldened David to resume the Ark's journey to Jerusalem with proper reverence and celebration ([2 Samuel 6:12-15](/2_samuel/6-12-15 "2 Samuel 6:12-15 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem with Proper Worship")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in ancient Israel, representing the very throne of God's invisible presence and His covenant with His people ([Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God's Presence Above the Mercy Seat")). Its proper handling was governed by strict divine commands, emphasizing God's absolute holiness and the imperative for reverent obedience. In the ancient Near East, the presence of a deity's cultic object was often believed to bring either blessing or curse, depending on how it was treated. The identification of Obed-Edom as a "Gittite" is significant; it suggests he was either a Philistine from Gath or, more plausibly given later references to his Levite descendants serving in the temple ([1 Chronicles 26:4-8](/1_chronicles/26-4-8 "1 Chronicles 26:4-8 - Obed-Edom's Descendants as Gatekeepers")), a Levite who resided in Gath-Rimmon, a Levitical city near the Philistine city of Gath. Regardless of his precise origin, his designation highlights that God's blessing is not confined to a narrow ethnic or geographical boundary but extends to those who honor His presence, even if they are perceived as "outsiders" or live on the fringes of Israelite society.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several key themes central to the Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **holiness and power of God's presence**, symbolized by the Ark. While God's holiness can bring judgment when violated (as with Uzzah's death in [2 Samuel 6:7](/2_samuel/6-7 "2 Samuel 6:7 - Uzzah Struck Down")), it also brings profound blessing when approached with reverence and proper protocol. Secondly, the theme of **divine blessing** is central, demonstrating God's comprehensive favor upon Obed-Edom and his entire household. This blessing encompasses prosperity, well-being, and fruitfulness, showcasing God's generosity and covenant faithfulness. Thirdly, the narrative implicitly emphasizes the critical importance of **reverence and obedience** in approaching God. Obed-Edom's household, unlike Uzzah, must have handled the Ark with the prescribed reverence, leading to blessing rather than judgment. This stark contrast sets the stage for David's renewed understanding of how to properly approach the divine, a crucial lesson for his reign and the establishment of Jerusalem as Israel's spiritual center ([Psalm 24:3-4](/psalm/24-3-4 "Psalm 24:3-4 - Who May Ascend the Hill of the Lord?")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **continued (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** This verb (H3427) means "to sit down," and by implication, "to dwell," "to remain," or "to abide." In this context, it signifies the Ark's settled presence in Obed-Edom's house. It implies a stable, albeit temporary, residence, contrasting with the previous tumultuous journey. The word suggests that the Ark was not merely stored, but truly "dwelt" there, establishing a divine presence that then became the source of blessing.
* **blessed (Hebrew, _bârak'_):** This primitive root (H1288) means "to kneel," and by implication, "to bless God" (as adoration) or "to bless man" (as a benefit). Here, it refers to God actively pouring out good things upon Obed-Edom. The blessing is comprehensive, encompassing material prosperity, health, family growth, and overall flourishing. It denotes a tangible, observable favor that touched every aspect of life for Obed-Edom and his family, directly attributed to the Lord's agency.
* **household (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** This noun (H1004) primarily means "a house," but in its greatest variation of applications, it refers to a "family" or "household." In this verse, "all his household" signifies that the blessing extended beyond Obed-Edom himself to encompass his entire family, including his children, servants, and all his possessions. This emphasizes the holistic and pervasive nature of God's favor, demonstrating that His presence can bring comprehensive flourishing to an entire domestic unit.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the ark of the LORD continued in the house of Obededom the Gittite three months:"** This clause sets the scene, specifying the duration and location of the Ark's temporary dwelling. The phrase "the ark of the LORD" explicitly identifies it as the sacred symbol of God's covenant presence, not merely a religious artifact. The period of "three months" is significant; it was long enough for the blessings to become evident and for the news to reach King David, confirming that God's presence, when properly honored, brings life and prosperity, not just judgment. The specific mention of "the house of Obededom the Gittite" highlights the unexpected and perhaps initially fearful hospitality shown by this individual, whose identity as a "Gittite" might have suggested an outsider status.
* **"and the LORD blessed Obededom, and all his household."** This is the central affirmation of the verse, directly attributing the comprehensive blessing to "the LORD," emphasizing divine agency. The blessing was not coincidental but a direct result of the Ark's presence and, implicitly, Obed-Edom's reverent reception of it. The phrase "all his household" signifies the comprehensive nature of this blessing, extending beyond Obed-Edom himself to his entire family, servants, and possessions. This demonstrates God's holistic benevolence and His desire to extend His favor broadly to those connected to His presence, establishing a powerful contrast with the earlier judgment on Uzzah.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound message. **Contrast** is a primary device, starkly juxtaposing the judgment upon Uzzah for his irreverent touch of the Ark with the comprehensive blessing upon Obed-Edom and his household for their reverent hosting of the sacred object. This stark difference underscores the critical importance of approaching God's holiness with proper respect and obedience. **Symbolism** is also central, as the Ark of the Covenant functions as the tangible symbol of God's invisible presence and His covenant faithfulness. Its dwelling in Obed-Edom's house symbolizes the transformative power of divine presence when welcomed appropriately. Furthermore, there is a subtle **foreshadowing** in the blessing of Obed-Edom, identified as a "Gittite." This detail hints at God's broader redemptive plan, suggesting that His favor is not exclusively limited to the covenant people of Israel but can extend to those perceived as outsiders who embrace His presence, anticipating the inclusion of Gentiles in God's future kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The narrative of Obed-Edom profoundly illustrates the dual nature of God's holiness: it is both consuming fire and life-giving presence. While Uzzah's death underscores the danger of irreverence and the absolute sanctity of God, Obed-Edom's blessing reveals God's profound desire to bless those who receive His presence with honor and obedience. This demonstrates that God's holiness, when properly acknowledged, is the source of all true blessing and flourishing. The comprehensive nature of the blessing—extending to "all his household"—highlights God's holistic care and the ripple effect of His favor on those connected to a reverent individual. This episode serves as a powerful theological lesson for David and for all believers, affirming that true prosperity flows from a right relationship with God and a deep reverence for His presence.

* [Proverbs 10:22](/proverbs/10-22 "Proverbs 10:22 - The Blessing of the LORD Makes Rich")
* [Psalm 128:1-4](/psalm/128-1-4 "Psalm 128:1-4 - Blessed is Everyone Who Fears the LORD")
* [Deuteronomy 28:1-6](/deuteronomy/28-1-6 "Deuteronomy 28:1-6 - Blessings for Obedience")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The story of Obed-Edom serves as a timeless reminder of the profound impact of God's presence in our lives and homes. Just as the physical Ark brought tangible blessing to Obed-Edom, the spiritual presence of God through the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers and the centrality of Christ in our families and communities promises true and lasting favor. This narrative challenges us to consider how we "host" God's presence in our daily lives. Do we approach Him with reverence, obedience, and a desire to honor His holiness, or with casual disregard? Cultivating a life of worship, prayer, and obedience to God's Word invites His comprehensive blessing, not just upon ourselves but upon our entire "household"—our families, relationships, work, and all spheres of influence. The blessing on Obed-Edom was observable, prompting David to act; similarly, our lives, marked by God's favor, can be a powerful testimony that draws others to seek His presence and experience His transformative power.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the contrast between Uzzah's fate and Obed-Edom's blessing inform your understanding of God's holiness and grace?**
* **In what practical ways can you cultivate a deeper sense of God's presence in your home and daily life, ensuring it is a place where His presence is honored?**
* **What does "blessing" mean to you, and how does the comprehensive nature of Obed-Edom's blessing expand your perspective on God's favor?**
* **How might your reverence for God's presence impact "all your household" or your immediate sphere of influence, making God's goodness visible to others?**

### FAQ

**Who was Obed-Edom the Gittite, and why was his house chosen to host the Ark?**

Answer: Obed-Edom is identified as a "Gittite," which likely indicates his origin from Gath or a Levite family residing near the Philistine city of Gath. He was, in fact, a Levite of the Kohathite clan, whose hereditary duty it was to carry the Ark ([1 Chronicles 15:18](/1_chronicles/15-18 "1 Chronicles 15:18 - Levites Appointed to Carry the Ark")). His house was chosen out of necessity and fear after Uzzah's death. David, terrified by God's judgment, did not want to bring the Ark further into Jerusalem and needed a temporary, nearby sanctuary. Obed-Edom's Levite heritage, though perhaps not immediately apparent to David, made his home a fitting, if temporary, repository for the sacred Ark, and his reverent handling of it led to divine blessing.

**What kind of "blessing" did Obed-Edom and his household receive?**

Answer: The Hebrew word for "blessed" (בָּרַךְ, _barak'_) implies a comprehensive and holistic favor from God. While the text doesn't specify the exact nature of the blessings, it would have encompassed prosperity, health, fruitfulness (likely including children, as later genealogies show his numerous descendants who served in the temple; [1 Chronicles 26:4-8](/1_chronicles/26-4-8 "1 Chronicles 26:4-8 - Obed-Edom's Descendants as Gatekeepers")), and general well-being. It was a tangible demonstration of God's favor that extended to every aspect of his family's life and possessions, making his household a visible example of divine prosperity. This blessing was so evident that the news reached King David, prompting him to reconsider his fear and bring the Ark to Jerusalem ([2 Samuel 6:12](/2_samuel/6-12 "2 Samuel 6:12 - David Hears of Obed-Edom's Blessing")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of the Ark's presence in Obed-Edom's house, bringing comprehensive blessing, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Ark symbolized God's dwelling among His people, but it was a veiled presence, accessible only to a select few and under strict conditions. Jesus, however, is the very embodiment of God's presence, the Word made flesh who "dwelt among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). He is the true and greater Ark, the mercy seat where God's holiness and grace perfectly meet, not just above a golden box, but in His very person. Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus has removed the barrier of sin that prevented humanity from approaching God's holiness without fear of judgment, allowing us to draw near with confidence to the [throne of grace](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence"). The blessing experienced by Obed-Edom for reverently hosting the Ark is a foreshadowing of the infinitely greater spiritual blessings poured out upon those who "host" Christ in their lives through faith. Believers, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, become temples of God ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")), experiencing not just temporal prosperity but eternal life, peace, joy, and every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Blessed in Christ")). The universal scope of the blessing on Obed-Edom, a "Gittite" from the fringes of Israelite society, also powerfully foreshadows the global reach of Christ's salvation, extending God's favor to all nations who believe, making them part of His household and recipients of His abundant grace, where in Christ there is [neither Jew nor Gentile](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile in Christ").

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

Genesis 39:5

And it came to pass from the time [that] he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field.

Genesis 30:27

And Laban said unto him, I pray thee, if I have found favour in thine eyes, [tarry: for] I have learned by experience that the LORD hath blessed me for thy sake.

Proverbs 3:9

Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:

Proverbs 3:10

So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.

Malachi 3:10

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that [there shall] not [be room] enough [to receive it].

Genesis 39:23

The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing [that was] under his hand; because the LORD was with him, and [that] which he did, the LORD made [it] to prosper.