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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Samuel 6:12–19. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
We have here the second attempt to bring the ark home to the city of David; and this succeeded, though the former miscarried.
I.It should seem the blessing with which the house of Obed-edom was blessed for the ark's sake was a great inducement to David to bring it forward; for when that was told him (Sa2 6:12) he hastened to fetch it to him. For,
1.It was an evidence that God was reconciled to them, and his anger was turned away. As David could read God's frowns upon them all in Uzzah's stroke, so he could read God's favour to them all in Obed-edom's prosperity; and, if God be at peace with them, they can cheerfully go on with their design.
2.It was an evidence that the ark was not such a burdensome stone as it was taken to be, but, on the contrary, happy was the man that had it near him. Christ is indeed a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, to those that are disobedient; but to those who believe he is a corner-stone, elect, precious, Pe1 2:6-8. When David heard that Obed-edom had such joy of the ark, then he would have it in his own city. Note, The experience others have had of the gains of godliness should encourage us to be religious. Is the ark a blessing to others' houses? let us bid it welcome to ours; we may have it, and the blessing of it, without fetching it from our neighbours.
II.Let us see how David managed the matter now.
1.He rectified the former error. He did not put the ark in a cart now, but ordered those whose business it was to carry it on their shoulders. This is implied here (Sa2 6:13) and expressed Ch1 15:15. Then we make a good use of the judgments of God on ourselves and others when we are awakened by them to reform and amend whatever has been amiss.
2.At their first setting out he offered sacrifices to God (Sa2 6:13) by way of atonement for their former errors and in a thankful acknowledgment of the blessings bestowed on the house of Obed-edom. Then we are likely to speed in our enterprises when we begin with God and give diligence to make our peace with him, When we attend upon God in holy ordinances our eye must be to the great sacrifice, to which we owe it that we are taken into covenant and communion with God, Psa 50:5.
3.He himself attended the solemnity with the highest expressions of joy that could be (Sa2 6:14): He danced before the Lord with all his might; he leaped for joy, as one transported with the occasion, and the more because of the disappointment he met with the last time. It is a pleasure to a good man to see his errors rectified and himself in the way of his duty. His dancing, I suppose, was not artificial, by any certain rule or measure, nor do we find that any danced with him; but it was a natural expression of his great joy and exultation of mind. He did it with all his might; so we should perform all our religious services, as those that are intent upon them and desire to do them in the best manner. All our might is little enough to be employed in holy duties: the work deserves it all. On this occasion David laid aside his imperial purple, and put on a plain linen ephod, which was light and convenient for dancing, and was used in religious exercises by those who were no priests, for Samuel wore one, Sa1 2:18. That great prince thought it no disparagement to him to appear in the habit of a minister to the ark.
4.All the people triumphed in this advancement of the ark (Sa2 6:15): They brought it up into the royal city with shouting, and with sound of trumpet, so expressing their own joy in loud acclamations, and giving notice to all about them to rejoice with them. The public and free administration of ordinances, not only under the protection, but under the smiles, of the civil powers, is just matter of rejoicing to any people. 5. the ark was safely brought to, and honourably deposited in, the place prepared for it, Sa2 6:17. They set it in the midst of the tabernacle, or tent, which David had pitched for it; not the tabernacle which Moses reared, for that was at Gibeon (Ch2 1:13), and, we may suppose, being made of cloth, in so many hundred years it had gone to decay and was not fit to be removed; but this was a tent set up on purpose to receive the ark. He would not bring it into a private house, no, not his own, lest it should seem to be too much engrossed, and people's resort to it, to pray before it, should be less free; yet he would not build a house for it, lest that should supersede the building of a more stately temple in due time, and therefore, for the present, he placed it within curtains, under a canopy, in imitation of Moses's tabernacle. As soon as ever it was lodged, he offered burnt-offerings and peace-offerings, in thankfulness to God that the business was now done without any more errors or breaches, and in supplication to God for the continuance of his favour. Note, All our joys must be sanctified both with praises and prayers; for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. New, it should seem, he penned the 132nd Psa 6:1-10. The people were then dismissed with great satisfaction. He sent them away,
(1.)With a gracious prayer: He blessed them in the name of the Lord of hosts (v. 18), having not only a particular interest in heaven as a prophet, but an authority over them as a prince; for the less is blessed of the better, Heb 7:7. He prayed to God to bless them, and particularly to reward them for the honour and respect they had now shown to his ark, assuring them they should be no losers by their journey, but the blessing of God upon their affairs at home would more than bear their charges. He testified his desire for their welfare by this prayer for them, and let them know they had a king that loved them.
(2.)With a generous treat; for so it was, rather than a distribution of alms. The great men, it is probable, he entertained at his own house, but to the multitude of Israel, men and women (and children, says Josephus), he dealt to every one a cake of bread (a spice-cake, so some), a good piece of flesh - a handsome decent piece (so some) - a part of the peace-offerings (so Josephus), that they might feast with him upon the sacrifice, and a flagon, or bottle, of wine, Sa2 6:19. Probably he ordered this provision to be made for them at their respective quarters, and this he did,
[1.]In token of his joy and gratitude to God. When the heart is enlarged in cheerfulness the hand should be opened in liberality. The feast of Purim was observed with sending portions one to another, Est 9:22. As those to whom God is merciful ought to show mercy in forgiving, so those to whom God is bountiful ought to exercise bounty in giving.
[2.]To recommend himself to the people, and confirm his interest in them; for every one is a friend to him that giveth gifts. Those that cared not for his prayers would love him for his generosity; and this would encourage them to attend him another time if he saw cause to call them together.
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Summary
Second Samuel 6:17 narrates the climactic moment of David's successful endeavor to bring the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem. This pivotal event signifies the centralization of Israel's spiritual life and worship in the newly established capital, as the Ark, representing God's manifest presence, is ceremonially placed within a temporary tabernacle David had prepared. The king's subsequent offering of burnt offerings and peace offerings underscores the profound theological significance of this occasion, emphasizing dedication, atonement, and fellowship with the LORD as foundational elements of the kingdom's relationship with God.
Context
Literary Context
This verse serves as the triumphant climax of the narrative concerning the Ark's journey to Jerusalem in 2 Samuel 6. Following the tragic death of Uzzah in 2 Samuel 6:7, which occurred due to improper handling of the Ark, David had temporarily housed it at the home of Obed-Edom the Gittite. The preceding narrative highlights a period of divine blessing upon Obed-Edom's household (2 Samuel 6:11), prompting David to resume the procession with renewed reverence and adherence to Mosaic law. The verses immediately prior to 2 Samuel 6:17 detail the joyous, albeit cautious, procession, involving sacrifices every six steps and David's exuberant worship (2 Samuel 6:13-15). Verse 17 thus represents the successful completion of this sacred task, establishing the Ark's presence in Jerusalem and setting the stage for subsequent acts of worship and the eventual plans for a permanent 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, His throne, and His divine authority (Exodus 25:22). Its relocation to Jerusalem was a strategic and deeply spiritual act by King David, solidifying the city not only as the political capital but also as the religious heart of the united kingdom. At this time, the Mosaic Tabernacle, with its altar of burnt offering, remained at Gibeon (1 Chronicles 16:39), indicating that David's "tabernacle" was a new, simpler, temporary structure specifically erected to house the Ark in Jerusalem. This move represented a significant shift in Israelite worship, centralizing it under the Davidic monarchy and foreshadowing the eventual construction of the Temple by Solomon. The offerings made by David were standard practices in Israelite worship, signifying dedication, atonement, and the re-establishment of fellowship with God after a period of separation and divine judgment.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes central to the book of 2 Samuel and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it underscores the centrality of God's presence in the life of Israel and its king. The Ark's arrival in Jerusalem signifies the LORD's dwelling among His people, a source of blessing and guidance. Secondly, it highlights David's devout leadership and fervent worship. Unlike Saul, David demonstrates a deep personal commitment to God's honor, actively participating in the Ark's procession and offering sacrifices. His actions portray him as a king after God's own heart, prioritizing spiritual matters for the nation. Thirdly, the event emphasizes the importance of proper worship and atonement. The tragic lesson of Uzzah's death led David to ensure the Ark's transport was conducted according to divine protocol, and the subsequent offerings of burnt and peace offerings served to consecrate the moment and re-establish the nation's right relationship with God, illustrating the necessity of atonement for sin and the pursuit of peace with God. Finally, the establishment of the Ark in David's tabernacle lays the foundation for future worship infrastructure, directly anticipating Solomon's Temple and establishing Jerusalem as the enduring spiritual epicenter of Israel.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This refers to the Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred object in Israelite worship. It was a wooden chest overlaid with gold, containing the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. More significantly, it was understood as the earthly throne of God, the place where His presence (Shekinah) manifested, and from which He spoke to His people (Exodus 25:22). Its presence symbolized God's covenant faithfulness, His power, and His guidance for Israel. Its arrival in Jerusalem was therefore not merely the relocation of an object, but the symbolic enthronement of Yahweh in the nation's capital, establishing His permanent presence among His people.
This term, derived from a root meaning "to be clearly conspicuous from a distance," refers to a tent or dwelling. In this context, it specifically denotes a temporary tent structure that David had "pitched" or erected for the Ark in Jerusalem. It is crucial to distinguish this from the original Mosaic Tabernacle, which was a more elaborate, portable sanctuary constructed in the wilderness and, at this time, resided in Gibeon (1 Chronicles 16:39), indicating that David's "tabernacle" was an immediate, albeit provisional, dwelling place for the Ark, signifying his commitment to bringing God's presence to the heart of his kingdom without delay, even before a permanent temple could be built.
These represent two distinct categories of sacrifices in Israelite worship. The ‘ôlâh, or burnt offering, was entirely consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing complete dedication, devotion, and atonement for sin, as the offering ascended wholly to God (Leviticus 1:9). The shelem, or peace offering, was an offering of fellowship, thanksgiving, or vows, where parts of the animal were burned on the altar, but other parts were shared by the worshipper and priests in a communal meal, symbolizing reconciliation, communion, and peace with God (Leviticus 7:15). David's offering of both types underscores a comprehensive act of worship: total surrender and atonement, followed by joyous fellowship and thanksgiving in God's presence.
Verse Breakdown
"And they brought in the ark of the LORD, and set it in his place,"
This clause describes the successful and reverent placement of the Ark. "They" refers to the Levites and priests, who, unlike Uzzah, were now following the proper divine instructions for transporting the Ark on their shoulders, as stipulated in Numbers 4:15. The phrase "set it in his place" emphasizes that the Ark was being restored to its rightful, central position as the emblem of God's dwelling among His people, a place of honor and reverence after its temporary stay in Obed-Edom's house. This act signifies the re-establishment of proper order and divine protocol.
"in the midst of the tabernacle that David had pitched for it:"
This specifies the new, temporary dwelling place for the Ark in Jerusalem. David's personal initiative in "pitching" or erecting this tabernacle highlights his devotion and his vision for Jerusalem as the spiritual capital. The Ark was placed "in the midst," signifying its preeminence and centrality to the nation's life and worship. This temporary structure served as a preparatory step for the future Temple, demonstrating David's immediate commitment to providing a suitable dwelling for God's presence in the heart of his kingdom.
"and David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD."
This final clause details David's actions of worship immediately following the Ark's placement. As king and spiritual leader, David personally led the nation in sacrifice. The "burnt offerings" signify a complete dedication of himself and the nation to God, acknowledging sin and seeking atonement. The "peace offerings" represent a celebration of restored fellowship and communion with God, expressing gratitude and joy for His presence. These offerings were a formal act of consecration, dedicating the Ark's new resting place and the kingdom itself to the LORD, solidifying the covenant relationship.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning. Narrative Climax is evident as this verse represents the successful culmination of David's arduous and previously flawed attempt to bring the Ark to Jerusalem, resolving the tension created by Uzzah's death and the subsequent pause in the procession. The careful description of the Ark's placement and David's immediate offerings underscores the gravity and triumph of the moment. Symbolism is paramount, with the "Ark of the LORD" serving as the central symbol of God's tangible presence, covenant, and authority. Its arrival in Jerusalem symbolizes God's dwelling among His people and the establishment of His spiritual reign in the capital. The "tabernacle that David had pitched" acts as a symbol of David's devotion and foresight, a temporary dwelling that foreshadows the permanent Temple. Furthermore, the "burnt offerings and peace offerings" are symbolic acts of worship, representing atonement, dedication, and fellowship with God. The sequence of these offerings—first complete surrender, then joyful communion—is itself a symbolic representation of the proper order of approaching a holy God.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse is profoundly significant, marking a pivotal moment in Israel's theological history. It underscores the Old Testament emphasis on God's desire to dwell among His people, a theme that runs from the wilderness tabernacle to the Jerusalem Temple. David's actions demonstrate a king who understands that the true strength and legitimacy of his kingdom derive not from military might or political prowess, but from the manifest presence of the LORD at its very heart. The offerings highlight the foundational requirement of atonement and reconciliation for humanity to stand in the presence of a holy God, while also celebrating the peace and fellowship that such a relationship affords. This event foreshadows the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity and the perfect sacrifice that would enable it.
Reflection and Application
The arrival of the Ark in Jerusalem and David's subsequent worship provide a powerful blueprint for our own spiritual lives and communal worship. Just as David prioritized God's presence by bringing the Ark to the center of his kingdom, we are called to make God's presence the central focus of our lives, homes, and communities. This isn't about physical objects, but about cultivating a spiritual environment where God is honored, sought, and worshipped. The offerings remind us that approaching God requires both a recognition of our need for atonement (burnt offerings) and a desire for genuine fellowship and thanksgiving (peace offerings). Our worship should be marked by intentionality, reverence, and a joyful response to God's grace. David's leadership inspires us to be proactive in facilitating opportunities for others to encounter God and and to ensure that our collective endeavors are rooted in His will and glory.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did David build a new tabernacle for the Ark when the original Mosaic Tabernacle still existed?
The original Mosaic Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary designed for the wilderness wanderings, was located at Gibeon at this time, along with the altar of burnt offering (1 Chronicles 16:39). David's decision to "pitch" a new, simpler tent in Jerusalem for the Ark was driven by his vision to make Jerusalem the spiritual and political capital of Israel. He wanted God's manifest presence, symbolized by the Ark, to be at the heart of his new capital. This temporary structure served as an immediate dwelling for the Ark, while the more elaborate plans for a permanent Temple, which David envisioned but his son Solomon would build, were still in the future. It demonstrated David's immediate commitment to centralizing worship in Jerusalem.
What was the significance of David offering both burnt offerings and peace offerings?
The offering of both burnt offerings (‘olah) and peace offerings (shelem) was highly significant. The burnt offering symbolized complete dedication and atonement. By offering it, David and the people acknowledged their sinfulness and sought full reconciliation with God, demonstrating their total surrender to Him. The peace offering, on the other hand, was an offering of thanksgiving, fellowship, and communion. It celebrated the restored relationship with God and the peace that came from His presence. Together, these offerings represented a comprehensive act of worship: first, making atonement and dedicating oneself wholly to God, and then, enjoying the blessing of fellowship and peace with Him. This dual offering underscored the solemnity and joy of the Ark's arrival.
How does this event relate to the later building of the Temple in Jerusalem?
The event in 2 Samuel 6:17 is a crucial precursor to the building of the Temple. By bringing the Ark to Jerusalem and placing it in a temporary tabernacle, David established the city as the spiritual center of Israel, the place where God's presence resided. This act laid the theological and geographical foundation for the permanent Temple. David himself later desired to build a magnificent house for the LORD (2 Samuel 7:2), though God revealed that his son, Solomon, would be the one to complete this task (2 Samuel 7:13). Thus, 2 Samuel 6:17 marks the initial, foundational step in centralizing Israelite worship in Jerusalem, culminating in the glorious Temple built by Solomon.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The bringing of the Ark to David's tabernacle in Jerusalem, and the subsequent offerings, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate dwelling of God among humanity and the perfect sacrifice accomplished in Jesus Christ. The Ark, as the symbol of God's presence, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, who is Immanuel, "God with us". John's Gospel declares that the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, using a Greek term (eskēnōsen) that literally means "tabernacled" or "pitched His tent." Jesus is the true and living tabernacle, the very embodiment of God's presence, in whom "all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form" (Colossians 2:9). Furthermore, David's burnt offerings and peace offerings, which provided temporary atonement and fellowship, are perfectly fulfilled in Christ's singular, all-sufficient sacrifice on the cross. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the ultimate burnt offering through whom we receive complete dedication and atonement (Hebrews 10:10). Through His blood, He also makes peace, reconciling us to God and to one another, becoming our true peace offering (Ephesians 2:14). Thus, the joyous celebration of God's presence and the offerings in 2 Samuel 6:17 find their glorious and eternal reality in the person and work of Jesus, who enables us to truly dwell with God and experience everlasting peace and fellowship.