(6.3) The Ark of the Covenant - The ark of God was a national treasure in Israel and was symbolic of God's presence among the people. It was ordinarily kept in the tabernacle. When the ark was returned to Israel after a brief Philistine captivity, it was kept in Abinadab's home for 20 years (i Samuel 41-7:2). By bringing the ark to Jerusalem, David demonstrated that both the people of Israel and he as their king were submitted completely to God's rule unlike during Saul's reign. David also demonstrated his desire for God's close presence and blessing. (See the notes on Exodus 37:1 and Joshua 3:2-4 for more information on the ark.)

(6:6-7) Uzzah Receives Harsh Punishment - Uzzah was only trying to protect the ark, so was God's anger against Uzzah just? According to Numbers 415-15, the ark was to be moved only by the Levites, who were to carry it using the carrying poles- they were never to touch the ark itself. To touch it was a capital offense under Hebrew law (Numbers 4:15). God's action was directed against both David and Uzzah. David placed the ark on a cart, following the Philistines' example (1 Samuel 6:7-8) rather than God's commands. Uzzah, though sincere in his desire to protect the ark, had to face the consequences of the sin of touching it. Also, Uzzah may not have been a Levite. As David sought to bring Israel back into a relationship with God, God had to dramatically remind him and the people that enthusiasm must be accompanied by obedience to his laws. The next time David tried to bring the ark to Jerusalem, he was careful to handle it correctly ( Chronicles 15:1-15).

(6:8-12) David Sees God's Wrath - David was angry that a well-meaning man had been killed and that his plans for a joyous return of the ark had been spoiled. He undoubtedly knew that the fault was his own for transporting the ark carelessly. After cooling down, he had the ark put into temporary storage while he waited to see if the Lord would allow him to bring it to Jerusalem. This also gave David time to consider the right way to transport the ark. The fact that God blessed the home of Obed-edom was a sign to David that he could try once again to move the ark to Jerusalem.

(6:14) David Wears the Ephod - David wore a linen ephod, the priest's apron, because the celebration was national and religious. Perhaps he had removed his royal clothing as an act of sincerity and humility.

(6:16-23) Michal Shows Contempt Toward David - Michal was David's first wife, but here she is called "Saul's daughter," possibly to show how similar her attitude was to her father's. Her contempt for David probably did not start with David's stand entrance into the city. Perhaps she thought it was undignified to be so expressive in public worship at a time when it was so neglected in the kingdom. Or maybe she thought it was not fitting for a king to display such emotion. She may also have resented David's taking her from Phaltiel, who loved her (see the note on 3:13-16). Whatever the reason, this contempt she felt toward her husband escalated into a difficult confrontation, and Michal ended up childless for life. Feelings of bitterness and resentment that go unchecked will destroy a person's relationship with God and with others. If you have these feelings, go to someone you trust, and deal with them before they escalate into open warfare.

(6:17) David Offers a Sacrifice - Only a priest could place the sacrifices on the altar. Leviticus 1:2-13 indicates that anyone who was ceremonially clean could assist a priest in offering the sacrifice (see the notes on Joshua 3:5 and 1 Samuel 20:26). So David probably offered these sacrifices to God with the aid of a priest. Solomon would do the same (1 Kings 8:62-65).

(6:20-22) Michal Resents David's Public Worship - Michal was disgusted with David as he led the ark's procession into Jerusalem. Like her father, Saul, she was concerned only about outward appearances. But David focused on the inward condition of his heart before God. He was willing to look foolish in the eyes of some in order to worship God more fully and honestly. People may worship God in ways that look foolish to us because we have a different culture or tradition from theirs. We should accept their heartfelt expressions of worship. We should also not be afraid to express our feelings of love and devotion toward God even when others are present.