2 Samuel 6:17

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they brought {H935} in the ark {H727} of the LORD {H3068}, and set {H3322} it in his place {H4725}, in the midst {H8432} of the tabernacle {H168} that David {H1732} had pitched {H5186} for it: and David {H1732} offered {H5927} burnt offerings {H5930} and peace offerings {H8002} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They brought the ark of ADONAI in and put it in its place inside the tent that David had set up for it. David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

So they brought the ark of the LORD and set it in its place inside the tent that David had pitched for it. Then David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD.

American Standard Version

And they brought in the ark of Jehovah, and set it in its place, in the midst of the tent that David had pitched for it; and David offered burnt-offerings and peace-offerings before Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Samuel 6:17 marks the triumphant and divinely sanctioned culmination of David's second attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem. This pivotal moment 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 event, 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 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](/2-samuel/6-7 "2 Samuel 6:7 - Uzzah's Death"), which occurred due to improper handling of the Ark, David had temporarily housed it at the home of Obed-Edom the Gittite. The narrative highlights a period of divine blessing upon Obed-Edom's household ([2 Samuel 6:11](/2-samuel/6-11 "2 Samuel 6:11 - Obed-Edom Blessed")), prompting David to resume the procession with renewed reverence and adherence to Mosaic law. The preceding verses detail the joyous, albeit cautious, procession, involving sacrifices every six steps and David's exuberant worship ([2 Samuel 6:13-15](/2-samuel/6-13 "2 Samuel 6:13-15 - David's Worship")). 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](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God's Presence on the Mercy Seat")). 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](/1-chronicles/16-39 "1 Chronicles 16:39 - Tabernacle at Gibeon")), 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](/leviticus/4-20 "Leviticus 4:20 - Atonement for Sin") and the pursuit of [peace with God](/isaiah/26-3 "Isaiah 26:3 - Peace for the Steadfast"). 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
* **Ark of the LORD (Hebrew: אֲרוֹן יְהוָה, _’aron YHWH_):** 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](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God's Instructions for the Mercy Seat")). 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.
* **Tabernacle (Hebrew: אֹהֶל, _’ohel_):** This term simply means "tent" or "dwelling." In this context, it refers to a temporary tent structure that David had specifically "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](/1-chronicles/16-39 "1 Chronicles 16:39 - The Tabernacle at Gibeon")). David's tabernacle served as 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.
* **Burnt offerings (Hebrew: עֹלָה, _‘olah_) and Peace offerings (Hebrew: שְׁלָמִים, _sh’lamim_):** These represent two distinct categories of sacrifices in Israelite worship. The _‘olah_, 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](/leviticus/1-9 "Leviticus 1:9 - The Burnt Offering")). The _sh’lamim_, 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](/leviticus/7-15 "Leviticus 7:15 - The Peace Offering")). 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 following the proper divine instructions for transporting the Ark on their shoulders, as stipulated in [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Carrying the Ark"). 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.
* **"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 commitment to providing a suitable dwelling for God's presence.
* **"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.

#### 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. 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.

* [Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "God's Promise to Meet Israel at the Ark")
* [Psalm 132:8](/psalms/132-8 "God's Resting Place with the Ark")
* [1 Chronicles 16:1-3](/1-chronicles/16-1 "1 Chronicles 16:1-3 - Parallel Account of the Ark's Arrival and Offerings")

### 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 to ensure that our collective endeavors are rooted in His will and glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does prioritizing God's presence in our lives, both individually and corporately, manifest in practical ways today?**
* **What lessons can we draw from David's meticulous preparation and worship in contrast to Uzzah's earlier error, regarding our approach to God?**
* **In what ways do our "burnt offerings" (complete dedication) and "peace offerings" (fellowship and thanksgiving) find expression in our Christian walk?**
* **How can leaders today emulate David's example of passionate spiritual leadership within their spheres of influence?**

### FAQ

**Why did David build a new tabernacle for the Ark when the original Mosaic Tabernacle still existed?**

Answer: 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](/1-chronicles/16-39 "1 Chronicles 16:39 - The Tabernacle at Gibeon")). 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?**

Answer: The offering of both burnt offerings (_‘olah_) and peace offerings (_sh’lamim_) 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?**

Answer: 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](/2-samuel/7-2 "2 Samuel 7:2 - David's Desire to Build a Temple")), though God revealed that his son, Solomon, would be the one to complete this task ([2_samuel/7-13](/2-samuel/7-13 "2 Samuel 7:13 - God's Promise to David about Solomon Building the Temple")). 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"](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Jesus, Immanuel"). John's Gospel declares that [the Word became flesh and dwelt among us](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), 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](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). 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](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), the ultimate burnt offering through whom we receive complete dedication and atonement ([hebrews/10-10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Sanctified Through Christ's Sacrifice")). Through His blood, He also makes peace, reconciling us to God and to one another, becoming our true peace offering ([ephesians/2-14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")). 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.

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 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.

2 Chronicles 1:4

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.

1 Kings 8:62

¶ And the king, and all Israel with him, offered sacrifice before the LORD.

1 Kings 8:65

And at that time Solomon held a feast, and all Israel with him, a great congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt, before the LORD our God, seven days and seven days, [even] fourteen days.

1 Kings 8:5

And king Solomon, and all the congregation of Israel, that were assembled unto him, [were] with him before the ark, sacrificing sheep and oxen, that could not be told nor numbered for multitude.

Psalms 132:8

Arise, O LORD, into thy rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength.

2 Chronicles 5:6

Also king Solomon, and all the congregation of Israel that were assembled unto him before the ark, sacrificed sheep and oxen, which could not be told nor numbered for multitude.