July 15, 2012, 7 Pentecost
2 Samuel 6:1-19
David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem
Background: The book of 2 Samuel is considered part
of the Deuteronomistic history and continues developing the history of the
Davidic kingship in the nation of Israel. 2 Samuel highlights the nature of the
human king; faithful and fallible. Principle in the first portion of this book
is the establishment of a unified kingdom with connections to the separated
kingdoms.
Theme: In this passage we see the movement of the
Ark of the Covenant from Baale-judah to Jerusalem. A series of incidents is
recounted that reminds the reader of the unpredictable nature of human
interaction with God and with other humans.
Questions to Ponder
* Please read the entire passage 2 Samuel 6:1-19.
* Briefly reflect on the social, political, and religious
setting for the passage. What have been the principle items of interest in
Israel in the recent past?
* Identify the principle characters in the story including
Abinadab, Uzzah, Obed-edom the Gittite and Michal.
* What is the significance of the Ark and how is its
presence in Israel ironic to the Jewish religion?
* Why do you think David and “all the house of Israel” were
dancing and carrying on before the Ark?
* Why was the Ark being transported on a “new cart” in this
story? How does this mode of transportation match the intended/directed method
of moving the Ark?
* Why might Uzzah have been struck down when he reached out
to steady the Ark? What is problematic about Uzzah’s death in this manner?
* Why do you think David became angry with God over God’s
action? Why might David have been hesitant to continue taking the Ark to
Jerusalem?
* For what reason do you think David’s fear is recounted
even though he later took the Ark to Jerusalem?
* For what reason do you think David had the change of heart
about bringing the Ark to Jerusalem? Is there anything problematic about
David’s rationale for moving the Ark?
* What do you find ironic about the classification of
Michal? What do you think the writer intended to imply with this
classification?
* Why do you think Michal despised David’s actions?
* How are Michal’s actions replayed in our church, our
faith, and our society today?
* Why do you think David pitched a tent for the Ark in
Jerusalem? Do you think this would be the proper place for the symbol of God’s
greatness to the Israelites?
* By what justification do you think David could offer
“burnt offerings and offerings of well-being” for Israel? Is this justification
warranted by David’s station?
* How does this passage comment on our life in community as
a church carrying forth the Gospel to the world?
* What are the implications and applications of this passage
for us today?
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