Psalms 132:6

KJV

Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood.

KJV (with Strong's)

Lo, we heard {H8085} of it at Ephratah {H672}: we found {H4672} it in the fields {H7704} of the wood {H3293}.

Complete Jewish Bible

We heard about it in Efrat, we found it in the Fields of Ya'ar.

Berean Standard Bible

We heard that the ark was in Ephrathah; we found it in the fields of Jaar.

American Standard Version

Lo, we heard of it in Ephrathah: We found it in the field of the wood.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 132:6 marks a pivotal moment in this Psalm of Ascents, shifting from David's fervent vow to establish a permanent dwelling for the Ark of the Covenant to a historical recollection of its discovery and retrieval. The verse encapsulates the collective memory of Israel's earnest quest for God's tangible presence, symbolized by the Ark, recalling the initial awareness of its whereabouts and the subsequent successful recovery from its obscure resting place, setting the stage for its grand entry into Jerusalem.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 132 is a "Psalm of Ascents" (Song of Degrees), likely sung by pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem for the great festivals. It is unique among these psalms for its focus on the Ark of the Covenant, the Davidic Covenant, and the establishment of Zion as God's dwelling place. The psalm opens with David's solemn vow to find a resting place for the Lord (vv. 1-5), demonstrating his fervent devotion. Verse 6 serves as a crucial transition, recalling the historical search and discovery of the Ark, thereby providing the historical backdrop for the subsequent prayers for the priests and the king (vv. 7-10) and God's enduring response, reiterating His covenant promises to David's lineage and Zion (vv. 11-18). This verse grounds the psalm's theological aspirations in concrete historical events, emphasizing the diligent effort required to bring God's presence to the center of national life and worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "it" in this verse refers to the Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred object in ancient Israel, representing God's throne and His presence among His people. After its capture by the Philistines (as recounted in [1 Samuel 4:11](/1_samuel/4-11 "1 Samuel 4:11 - The Ark Captured")), and its subsequent return, the Ark spent approximately two decades in relative obscurity at Kirjath-jearim, in the house of Abinadab ([1 Samuel 7:1-2](/1_samuel/7-1 "1 Samuel 7:1-2 - The Ark at Kirjath-jearim")). King David, upon consolidating his kingdom and establishing Jerusalem as his capital, prioritized bringing the Ark to Jerusalem as a central act of worship and national identity (detailed in [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "2 Samuel 6 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem") and [1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - David's First Attempt to Bring the Ark") and [1 Chronicles 15-16](/1_chronicles/15 "1 Chronicles 15 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem")). "Ephratah" is widely associated with Bethlehem, David's hometown ([Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Bethlehem Ephratah")), suggesting either the origin of the *idea* or *quest* for the Ark's proper place, or the beginning of David's reign and his God-given mission. The "fields of the wood" is a descriptive term for the rural area around Kirjath-jearim, highlighting the Ark's long period of neglect and its eventual "finding" by David.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Psalm 132 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Presence and Dwelling**, as the search for the Ark is fundamentally a search for God's tangible presence among His people, culminating in its permanent installation in Jerusalem. Secondly, it highlights **David's Zeal and Devotion**, showcasing his personal commitment and leadership in seeking to honor God by providing a proper resting place for the Ark, a commitment that undergirds God's subsequent covenant promises to him regarding his lineage and the eternal kingship ([2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant")). Thirdly, the verse emphasizes **Historical Remembrance and Continuity**, recalling a significant historical event that connects the present worship and national identity to God's past acts and faithfulness. Finally, it subtly touches upon the theme of **Pilgrimage and Worship**, as the Ark's journey to Jerusalem made the city the central place of worship, a destination for pilgrims, aligning with the psalm's genre as a "Psalm of Ascents" sung by those journeying to the holy city.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ephratah (Hebrew, _Ephratah'_):** This geographical reference holds deep significance. While it can refer to the region around Bethlehem, David's hometown, its mention here is interpretively rich. It could signify the place where the *idea* or *desire* to find a proper dwelling for the Ark was first conceived, perhaps during David's early life or anointing in Bethlehem before he became king. Alternatively, it might allude to the beginning of the Davidic dynasty, from which the zeal for God's dwelling would spring forth. It represents the origin point of the quest, whether literal or symbolic.
* **fields of the wood (Hebrew, _s'dei ya'ar'_):** This phrase is widely understood to refer to Kirjath-jearim (also known as Baale-Judah), the place where the Ark of the Covenant resided for approximately 20 years in the house of Abinadab after its return from the Philistines. The descriptive "fields of the wood" suggests a rural, perhaps somewhat obscure or forgotten, location. Its mention emphasizes the Ark's long period of relative neglect and its eventual "discovery" and retrieval from this hidden place by King David, bringing it back into the national consciousness and central worship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah:"**: The exclamation "Lo" (Hebrew: *hinneh*) serves to draw immediate attention, signaling a significant declaration or recollection. The phrase "we heard of it" implies a collective memory or a shared awareness among the people, perhaps initiated by David, concerning the Ark's existence and its need for a proper home. The mention of "Ephratah" as the place where this "hearing" occurred suggests a connection to David's origins or the nascent stages of his kingdom, where the vision for the Ark's relocation might have first taken root. It speaks to the initial knowledge or the genesis of the fervent desire to bring God's presence back to the center of Israelite life.
* **"we found it in the fields of the wood."**: This clause signifies the successful culmination of the search and the actual location where the Ark was discovered. "Fields of the wood" points directly to Kirjath-jearim, the rural site where the Ark had been residing. The act of "finding" implies a diligent, intentional search and recovery, bringing the sacred object out of obscurity and neglect. This phrase marks the historical reality of the Ark's retrieval, a physical manifestation of the nation's and David's zeal to re-establish God's presence in their midst.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices to convey its message. The use of **Historical Allusion** is prominent, as the entire verse refers to the well-known historical narrative of the Ark's journey and David's efforts to bring it to Jerusalem. This allusion grounds the psalm's theological themes in concrete events, making them relatable and impactful for the original audience. There is also an element of **Synecdoche** or **Metonymy**, where "Ephratah" and "fields of the wood" represent not just physical locations but also the entire process of the Ark's rediscovery and relocation, encapsulating the long journey from initial awareness to actual retrieval. The **Collective Voice** of "we" creates a sense of shared national memory and participation in this momentous event, fostering communal identity and devotion. Furthermore, the structure presents an implicit **Parallelism** between "heard of it" and "found it," highlighting the two stages of the quest: initial knowledge or intent, followed by successful execution and discovery.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 132:6, in its recollection of the diligent search for the Ark of the Covenant, powerfully articulates the enduring human and divine desire for intimate presence. The Ark, as the tangible symbol of God's dwelling among His people, was not merely an object but represented the very heart of their relationship with Yahweh. The "hearing" and "finding" of the Ark signify a profound spiritual quest—a longing to draw near to God and to establish a proper, honored place for His presence. This theological impulse, evident in Israel's history, resonates throughout the biblical narrative, emphasizing that true worship is rooted in seeking and cherishing God's nearness. The verse, therefore, serves as a testament to the importance of actively pursuing and valuing the divine presence in the life of the community and the individual.

* [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Command to Build a Sanctuary")
* [1 Chronicles 13:3](/1_chronicles/13-3 "1 Chronicles 13:3 - David's Desire to Bring Back the Ark")
* [Isaiah 2:3](/isaiah/2-3 "Isaiah 2:3 - All Nations Will Go to the Lord's House")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The psalmist's recollection in Psalms 132:6 invites contemporary believers to reflect on their own spiritual journey and the earnestness with which they seek God's presence. Just as ancient Israel diligently sought a physical dwelling place for the Ark, we are called to pursue God's presence in our lives and communities with intentionality and zeal. Our "Ephratah" might represent the initial stirring of faith, the place where we first "heard" of God's truth or felt a call to deeper relationship—perhaps a childhood church, a significant sermon, or a personal revelation. Our "fields of the wood" then become the unexpected, sometimes obscure, places where we truly "find" God: in moments of quiet solitude, in the midst of trials, in acts of service, or in the fellowship of believers. This verse reminds us that seeking God is an active, ongoing process, requiring perseverance and a heart dedicated to discovering where He is at work and how we can draw closer to Him. It challenges us to move beyond mere intellectual assent to a passionate pursuit of His indwelling presence, recognizing that God no longer dwells in temples made with hands, but through the Holy Spirit, He makes His home within us and among us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "seeking God's presence" look like in your daily life, beyond formal worship?**
* **Can you identify your "Ephratah"—the place or moment where you first "heard" of God's call or felt a desire for His presence?**
* **Where have you "found" God in unexpected or "obscure" places, like the "fields of the wood," and what did you learn from that discovery?**
* **How does the zeal of David to establish a dwelling for God challenge your own commitment to Christ and His Church today?**

### FAQ

**What is the "it" that was heard of and found?**

Answer: The "it" refers to the Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred chest in ancient Israel, symbolizing God's presence, His throne, and the covenant relationship with His people. After its capture by the Philistines and subsequent return, it remained in relative obscurity at Kirjath-jearim for many years until King David initiated its relocation to Jerusalem, as detailed in [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "2 Samuel 6 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem") and [1 Chronicles 13](/1_chronicles/13 "1 Chronicles 13 - David's First Attempt to Bring the Ark").

**Why are "Ephratah" and "fields of the wood" significant?**

Answer: "Ephratah" is commonly understood to refer to Bethlehem, David's hometown ([Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Bethlehem Ephratah")). Its mention here could signify the origin of the *idea* or *desire* to find a permanent home for the Ark, perhaps stemming from David's early life or anointing, or even symbolizing the beginning of the Davidic reign and its commitment to God's dwelling. "Fields of the wood" is widely identified with Kirjath-jearim (also known as Baale-Judah), the place where the Ark had resided for approximately 20 years in the house of Abinadab ([1 Samuel 7:1-2](/1_samuel/7-1 "1 Samuel 7:1-2 - The Ark at Kirjath-jearim")). These locations collectively mark the journey from the initial conception of the quest to the actual discovery and retrieval of the Ark from its long period of obscurity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 132:6, with its focus on the diligent search for a dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Ark, as the ultimate symbol of God's presence among His people, powerfully foreshadows Christ Himself, who is [Immanuel, "God with us"](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - God With Us"). The longing to "hear of it at Ephratah" and "find it in the fields of the wood" becomes the spiritual yearning for the Incarnate Word, the one in whom the fullness of God dwells bodily ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). David's zeal to establish a dwelling for the Lord is ultimately fulfilled in Christ's own zeal for His Father's house ([John 2:17](/john/2-17 "John 2:17 - Jesus' Zeal for the Temple")), and more profoundly, in His establishment of a new temple: His own resurrected body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")). Through Christ, God's presence is no longer confined to a physical box or a stone temple, but through the Holy Spirit, He indwells believers, making them living temples ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body a Temple of the Holy Spirit")) and collectively building them into a holy dwelling place for God ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone, Believers as a Holy Temple")). The ultimate fulfillment of this longing for God's dwelling is found in the New Jerusalem, where God Himself will dwell directly with His people, and the Lamb will be its temple ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling with Humanity") and [Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - The Lamb is its 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 Samuel 7:1

¶ And the men of Kirjathjearim came, and fetched up the ark of the LORD, and brought it into the house of Abinadab in the hill, and sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD.

1 Samuel 17:12

¶ Now David [was] the son of that Ephrathite of Bethlehemjudah, whose name [was] Jesse; and he had eight sons: and the man went among men [for] an old man in the days of Saul.

Micah 5:2

But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, [though] thou be little among the thousands of Judah, [yet] out of thee shall he come forth unto me [that is] to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth [have been] from of old, from everlasting.

Genesis 35:19

And Rachel died, and was buried in the way to Ephrath, which [is] Bethlehem.

1 Chronicles 13:5

So David gathered all Israel together, from Shihor of Egypt even unto the entering of Hemath, to bring the ark of God from Kirjathjearim.

1 Chronicles 13:6

And David went up, and all Israel, to Baalah, [that is], to Kirjathjearim, which [belonged] to Judah, to bring up thence the ark of God the LORD, that dwelleth [between] the cherubims, whose name is called [on it].

Ruth 1:2

And the name of the man [was] Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah. And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there.