The Ark Returned to Israel
1 Samuel 6:1-7:1
1 S.6.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- ארון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בשדה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- שבעה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חדשים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 5:1–12 (structural): Immediate narrative context: the ark is captured by the Philistines, placed in Dagon’s temple, and causes plagues — explains why the ark ends up in Philistine territory.
- 1 Samuel 4:10–11 (verbal): Reports the Israelite defeat and explicit seizure of the ark by the Philistines, the event that leads to its being in Philistine fields.
- 1 Samuel 7:1–2 (structural): Describes the Israelites’ recovery of the ark from Philistine control and its temporary residence at Kiriath‑Jearim — the subsequent stage after the ark’s stay among the Philistines.
- 2 Samuel 6:1–11 (thematic): Later narrative of the ark’s transport to Jerusalem; contrasts the ark’s residence among enemies with its return to Israelite worship and the dangers of improper transport.
- Psalm 78:60–61 (allusion): Speaks of God rejecting his dwelling at Shiloh and the ensuing calamity — thematically echoes the loss of the ark from Israelite sanctuary and its absence from Israelite control.
Alternative generated candidates
- The ark of God was in the field of the Philistines seven months.
- The ark of God was in the field of the Philistines seven months.
1 S.6.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויקראו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- לכהנים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ולקסמים: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- מה: PRON,int
- נעשה: VERB,qal,impf,1,pl
- לארון: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- הודענו: VERB,hiph,perf,1,na,pl
- במה: PREP+PRON,interr
- נשלחנו: VERB,nip,perf,1,na,pl
- למקומו: PREP,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 5:6-12 (verbal): Immediate context: the Philistine cities are struck with tumors and mice after seizing the ark, and the people and rulers call their priests/diviners to explain the calamity—this is the direct precursor that prompts 6:2.
- 1 Samuel 6:3-9 (structural): Direct continuation of the same scene: the Philistine leaders consult their priests and diviners and debate how to return the ark, giving instructions for sending it back to Israel.
- 2 Samuel 6:2-11 (thematic): A later account of moving the ark that highlights Israelite and non‑Israelite reactions to the ark’s presence (fear, reverence, mishandling such as Uzzah’s death), showing similar concerns about how to deal with the divine presence.
- 1 Chronicles 13:6-14 (verbal): Chronicles’ parallel narrative of transporting the ark and the fatal mishandling (Uzzah), providing a closely related tradition about proper handling and the consequences of the ark’s movement.
- 1 Samuel 28:7-8 (thematic): Illustrates the wider pattern of turning to priests, diviners, or mediums to inquire about divine will or mishaps; parallels 6:2 in the Philistines’ reliance on religious specialists to interpret and resolve a crisis involving a deity.
Alternative generated candidates
- The Philistines called together the priests and the diviners and said, “What shall we do with the ark of the God? Tell us to what place we shall send it.”
- The Philistines called their priests and their diviners and said, "What shall we do with the ark of God? Tell us how we shall send it to its place."
1 S.6.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- אם: CONJ
- משלחים: VERB,qal,part,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- ארון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אלהי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- תשלחו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- ריקם: ADV
- כי: CONJ
- השב: VERB,hif,imp,2,m,sg
- תשיבו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- אשם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אז: ADV
- תרפאו: VERB,niphal,imperfect,2,m,pl
- ונודע: VERB,niphal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- למה: ADV
- לא: PART_NEG
- תסור: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- ידו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- מכם: PREP,2,m,pl
Parallels
- Numbers 5:6-8 (verbal): Law requiring restoration plus a guilt (asham) offering when one has defrauded or wronged another — parallels the instruction to send the ark back with a guilt offering.
- Leviticus 5:14-16 (verbal): Regulations for the ashām (guilt/trespass) offering and restitution; similar vocabulary and ritual logic underlying the demand to return the ark 'with a guilt offering' for healing.
- Joshua 7:19-26 (thematic): Achan's hidden trespass brings communal calamity until the sin/treasure is removed and punished — parallel theme of communal affliction caused by offense and the need for removal/restitution to secure healing.
- 1 Samuel 4:3-11 (allusion): Earlier episode in which the ark is captured and Israel suffers because 'the hand of the LORD' is against them; 6:3 echoes this motif of God's hand not being turned from Israel as explanation for their sufferings.
- 1 Samuel 6:4-5 (structural): Immediate continuation that prescribes making five golden images (tumors and mice) and sending them with the ark as a guilt offering — direct procedural parallel that fleshes out 6:3's injunction.
Alternative generated candidates
- They said, “If you send away the ark of the God of Israel, do not send it empty; return a guilt offering to him, and then you will be healed — and you will know why his hand has not turned from you.”
- They said, "If you send away the ark of the God of Israel, do not send it away empty; return with it a guilt offering. Then you will be healed, and you will know why his hand has not turned away from you."
1 S.6.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- מה: PRON,int
- האשם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- נשיב: VERB,qal,impf,1,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- מספר: VERB,qal,impf,1,m,sg
- סרני: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- חמשה: NUM,m,pl
- טחרי: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- זהב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וחמשה: CONJ+NUM,m,pl
- עכברי: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- זהב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- מגפה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אחת: NUM,f,sg
- לכלם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- ולסרניכם: CONJ+PREP,NOUN,m,pl,construct,2,m,pl
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 5:6-7 (structural): Narrative antecedent: describes the plague of tumors (emerods) inflicted on the Philistines after they captured the ark — the affliction that prompts the golden offerings in 6:4.
- 1 Samuel 6:5 (structural): Immediate contextual parallel within the same scene: the leaders discuss what guilt offering (asham) should accompany the ark to atone for the affliction on them and their lords.
- 1 Samuel 6:11-12 (structural): Narrative fulfillment: reports the crafting of the golden tumors and mice and the dispatching of the ark with the offerings on a cart to Beth‑shemesh, completing the action envisaged in 6:4.
- Leviticus 7:1-7 (verbal): Cultic/legal background for the term asham ('guilt offering'): defines the nature and purpose of guilt offerings in Israelite sacrificial practice, clarifying the meaning of the Philistines' proposed offering.
Alternative generated candidates
- They said, “What guilt offering shall we return to him?” They answered, “Five golden tumors and five golden mice, according to the number of the lords of the Philistines; for one plague came upon all of you and upon your lords.”
- They asked, "What guilt offering shall we return to him?" They answered, "Five golden tumors and five golden mice, according to the number of the lords of the Philistines—for one plague was on you all and on your lords."
1 S.6.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועשיתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- צלמי: NOUN,m,pl,const
- טחריכם: NOUN,m,pl,poss,2,m,pl
- וצלמי: NOUN,m,pl,const
- עכבריכם: NOUN,m,pl,poss,2,m,pl
- המשחיתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ונתתם: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- לאלהי: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,const
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כבוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אולי: ADV
- יקל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- ידו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- מעליכם: PREP+PRON,2,pl
- ומעל: PREP
- אלהיכם: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- ומעל: PREP
- ארצכם: NOUN,f,sg,abs+2mp
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:3-6 (structural): Immediate context: instructions about making a guilt offering—models of their tumors and of their mice—and giving glory to the God of Israel, same scene and wording as v.5.
- 1 Samuel 5:6-12 (structural): Earlier narrative of the Philistines afflicted with tumors and devastated by mice after seizing the Ark; explains the reason for making images and sending offerings to Israel’s God.
- Exodus 32:7-14 (thematic): Idolatry provokes the LORD’s anger and threatens national destruction; Moses’ intercession and the need to avert divine wrath parallels the Philistines’ attempt to placate Israel’s God with offerings.
- Deuteronomy 7:25 (thematic): Command to destroy graven images and not bring their worship into Israel’s midst; contrasts with Philistines’ creation of votive models and highlights the theological problem of images tied to plagues and land devastation.
- Acts 19:24-27 (allusion): Artisans making and selling small silver shrines of Artemis (votive replicas) parallels the cultural practice of producing model images as offerings or ex-votos, similar to the Philistine models of tumors and mice.
Alternative generated candidates
- “Make images of your tumors and images of your mice that have devastated the land; give them to the God of Israel as a glory offering — perhaps he will lighten his hand from you, from your gods, and from your land.”
- "Make images of your tumors and images of your mice that ravaged the land, and give them to the God of Israel as an offering; perhaps his hand will be lightened from upon you, upon your gods, and upon your land."
1 S.6.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ולמה: CONJ
- תכבדו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- לבבכם: NOUN,m,sg,poss
- כאשר: CONJ
- כבדו: VERB,qal,perf,3,pl
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- ופרעה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- לבם: NOUN,m,sg,poss
- הלוא: PART
- כאשר: CONJ
- התעלל: VERB,hitpael,perf,3,m,sg
- בהם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- וישלחום: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg,obj3,m,pl
- וילכו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Exodus 9:12 (verbal): Both passages speak of Pharaoh's hardened heart in the context of God's judgments on Egypt; Exodus describes the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart during the plagues, paralleling 1 Samuel’s rebuke of hardening hearts like Egypt and Pharaoh.
- Exodus 9:34–35 (thematic): Describes Pharaoh hardening his heart after the storms ceased—illustrates the same pattern 1 Samuel 6:6 condemns: hardening in response to God’s affliction and release.
- Hebrews 3:8 (quotation): Uses the same admonition 'harden not your hearts' in recalling Israel’s wilderness provocation; thematically parallels 1 Samuel’s warning against adopting the stubbornness of Egypt/Pharaoh.
- Romans 9:17–18 (thematic): Reflects on God’s dealings with Pharaoh and the hardening of heart theologically; connects the Exodus motif of Pharaoh’s obstinacy to broader scriptural reflections on hardening and divine purpose.
Alternative generated candidates
- “Why do you harden your hearts as Egypt and Pharaoh hardened their hearts? When he afflicted them, did he not let them go — and they went?”
- "And why should you harden your hearts as Egypt and Pharaoh hardened their hearts? When he afflicted them, did he not send them away, and they departed?"
1 S.6.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועתה: CONJ
- קחו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- ועשו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- עגלה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- חדשה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
- אחת: NUM,f,sg
- ושתי: CONJ+NUM,f,du
- פרות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- עלות: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- אשר: PRON,rel
- לא: PART_NEG
- עלה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- עליהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- על: PREP
- ואסרתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- הפרות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- בעגלה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- והשיבתם: VERB,hif,perf,2,m,pl
- בניהם: NOUN,m,pl,abs+3,pl
- מאחריהם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- הביתה: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:8 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: the Israelites follow the instruction—putting the ark on the cart and hitching the cows—so this verse completes the action begun in 6:7.
- 1 Samuel 6:12 (thematic): Reports the outcome: the yokeless cows go straight toward Israel (Beth-shemesh), showing divine guidance of the unyoked animals as anticipated in 6:7.
- 2 Samuel 6:3-4 (verbal): Later narrative uses very similar language about placing the ark on a new cart; parallels the motif and phrasing of transporting the ark on a cart.
- 1 Chronicles 13:7 (verbal): Chronicles recounts the same episode of setting the ark on a new cart (parallel to 2 Sam 6 and echoing the cart-transport motif found in 1 Sam 6:7).
Alternative generated candidates
- “Now therefore take and prepare a new cart, and two cows that have not been yoked; tie the cows to the cart, and put the ark of God upon the cart; and the golden things which you return as a guilt offering put in a chest beside it; and send it away and let it go.”
- "Now therefore take and make one new cart, and two cows that have borne calves and that have not been yoked; tie the cows to the cart and bring their calves home from them."
1 S.6.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ולקחתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- ארון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ונתתם: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- אל: NEG
- העגלה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- כלי: NOUN,m,pl,const
- הזהב: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- השבתם: VERB,hiph,perf,2,m,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- אשם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תשימו: VERB,qal,imp,2,pl
- בארגז: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מצדו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- ושלחתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- והלך: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:3 (verbal): Same episode in immediate context: the Philistines prepare the ark for return by putting it on a cart together with a guilt offering—language and actions closely mirror v.8.
- 2 Samuel 6:3-4 (thematic): David later sets the ark on a new cart to transport it (non‑Levitical transport); parallels the motif of moving the ark on a cart and raises similar issues about proper handling.
- Exodus 25:14-15 (allusion): Divine law prescribes that the ark be carried on poles placed in its rings (by Levites), not transported on a cart—provides the legal/theological background and contrast to placing the ark on a cart in 1 Sam 6:8.
- Numbers 4:15 (allusion): Instructions for the Kohathites to carry holy objects with poles emphasize the authorized Israelite method of transport, highlighting why the ark's placement on a cart (as in 1 Sam 6:8) is notable and irregular.
Alternative generated candidates
- “And see — if it goes up by the border to Beth‑shemesh, then it has done us this great harm; but if not, we shall know that his hand has not struck us, but that it happened to us by chance.”
- "Put the ark of God upon the cart, and the box with the golden objects that you return as a guilt offering set beside it; then send it away."
1 S.6.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וראיתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- אם: CONJ
- דרך: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- גבולו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- יעלה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שמש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- עשה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לנו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- הרעה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- הגדולה: ADJ,f,sg,def
- הזאת: DEM,f,sg,def
- ואם: CONJ
- לא: PART_NEG
- וידענו: VERB,qal,perf,1,pl
- כי: CONJ
- לא: PART_NEG
- ידו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- נגעה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- בנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- מקרה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- היה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לנו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
Parallels
- 1 Sam 5:6 (verbal): The people of Ashdod say that 'the hand of the LORD is heavy upon us'—language very similar to 1 Sam 6:9's concern that 'his hand is against you' (ידו נגעה בנו), linking the idea of divine causation of suffering.
- 1 Sam 6:19 (structural): Immediate narrative follow-up: God strikes many of the men of Beth‑shemesh. This is the outcome to the test contemplated in 6:9 about whether the LORD's hand had touched a particular house.
- 2 Sam 6:6-11 (thematic): Account of Uzzah being struck for touching the ark and the ark then remaining in Obed‑edom's house (which is blessed). Parallels the concern in 1 Sam 6:9 about whose household suffered or was favored when the ark was moved.
- Josh 7:16-18 (thematic): Israel casts lots to identify the person whose sin brought God's hand upon the community (the Achan episode). Similar motif of using a test or sign to determine who or which house caused divine affliction.
- Num 17:8 (allusion): Aaron's rod budding is a divinely given sign to show whom the LORD has chosen—analogous to using a sign/test in 1 Sam 6:9 to reveal whether the LORD's hand had touched a particular man or house.
Alternative generated candidates
- The men did so: they took two cows that had recently calved and tied them to the cart, and shut up their calves at home.
- "Observe: if it goes up by the road of its own border to Beth Shemesh, he has dealt us this great evil; but if not, we shall know that his hand has not touched us but that it happened to us by chance."
1 S.6.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעשו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- כן: ADV
- ויקחו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- שתי: NUM,card,f,du
- פרות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- עלות: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- ויאסרום: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- בעגלה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- בניהם: NOUN,m,pl,abs+3,pl
- כלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- בבית: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:9 (verbal): Immediate instruction in the same episode specifying a new cart and two milch cows to bear the ark—same wording and ritual actions.
- 2 Samuel 6:3-8 (structural): Later episode of moving the ark on a cart to Jerusalem; parallels in method of transport and highlights dangers/ritual proprieties (Uzzah’s death).
- 1 Chronicles 13:7-10 (structural): Parallel account of David’s attempt to transport the ark on a cart; echoes the cart-transport motif and the consequences of improper handling.
- Judges 6:36-40 (thematic): Gideon’s request for a sign (the fleece) parallels the Philistines’ setting up of a providential sign using animals to discern God’s will.
- Numbers 22:21-30 (thematic): The episode of Balaam and his donkey where an animal acts as instrument/agent of divine revelation—similar motif of animals conveying God’s purpose.
Alternative generated candidates
- They put the ark of God on the cart and the chest with the golden mice and the images of their tumors.
- The men did as they were instructed: they took two cows that had borne calves, yoked them to a cart, and shut up their calves at home.
1 S.6.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישמו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- ארון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- העגלה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- הארגז: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- עכברי: NOUN,m,pl,const
- הזהב: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- צלמי: NOUN,m,pl,const
- טחריהם: NOUN,m,pl,abs+suff:3,m,pl
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 5:11 (verbal): Explicitly lists the golden mice and images of their tumors brought as a guilt offering — the same objects placed with the ark in 6:11.
- 1 Samuel 6:4-5 (structural): Gives the Philistine plan and instructions to send the ark back with a cart and five golden tumors and mice — directly precedes and explains the items on the cart in 6:11.
- Numbers 4:15 (allusion): Prescribes that the Levites must carry holy objects on poles when moving the sanctuary, contrasting with the Philistines’ placing the ark on a cart (implicit legal/ritual contrast).
- 2 Samuel 6:3-7 (thematic): Narrates a later Israelite attempt to transport the ark on a cart and the fatal consequence (Uzzah), thematically linked to moving the ark and issues of proper handling.
- 1 Chronicles 13:7-10 (verbal): Parallel account to 2 Samuel describing David’s use of a new cart to move the ark and Uzzah’s death — another textual witness to the motif of transporting the ark on a cart.
Alternative generated candidates
- The cows went straight on the road toward Beth‑shemesh, along the highway; they went along the one road, lowing as they went, and they did not turn aside to the right or to the left; the lords of the Philistines went after them to the border of Beth‑shemesh.
- They put the ark of God on the cart along with the box and the golden mice and the images of their tumors.
1 S.6.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישרנה: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,pl
- הפרות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- בדרך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- דרך: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שמש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- במסלה: PREP
- אחת: NUM,f,sg
- הלכו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- הלך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- וגעו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- ולא: CONJ
- סרו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- ימין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ושמאול: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- וסרני: CONJ
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- הלכים: VERB,qal,ptc,.,m,pl
- אחריהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- עד: PREP
- גבול: NOUN,m,sg,cs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שמש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 4:25-27 (verbal): Uses the same idiom of not turning 'to the right hand nor to the left' (עין לאחור/אל־תסור ימינה ושמאלה) — a verbal parallel about keeping a straight course.
- Joshua 1:7-8 (allusion): Commands Joshua not to 'turn to the right or to the left' from God's law — a thematic/allusive echo of obedience and following a straight way.
- 1 Samuel 6:11 (structural): Immediate narrative parallel within the same episode describing the ark placed on the cart and the cows set to go — the preceding verse sets up the scene continued in 6:12.
- 2 Samuel 6:6-7 (thematic): Another ark-transport episode; both passages deal with moving the ark and the surrounding divine involvement and consequences of how it is handled.
- Psalm 78:52-53 (thematic): Speaks of God leading his people 'like sheep' and guiding them — a thematic parallel emphasizing divine guidance leading to a destined place, comparable to the cows guided to Beth‑Shemesh.
Alternative generated candidates
- The men of Beth‑shemesh were reaping their wheat in the valley; they lifted up their eyes and saw the ark, and they rejoiced at seeing it.
- The cows went straight on the road toward Beth Shemesh; they went along a single road and did not turn aside to the right or to the left. The lords of the Philistines followed them to the border of Beth Shemesh.
1 S.6.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ובית: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,cs
- שמש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- קצרים: VERB,qal,ptc,masc,pl
- קציר: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- חטים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- בעמק: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וישאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- עיניהם: NOUN,f,pl,abs+3mp
- ויראו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- הארון: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וישמחו: VERB,qal,perf,3,pl
- לראות: VERB,qal,inf
Parallels
- 1 Sam 6:14–15 (verbal): Immediate narrative continuation — the ark is brought into the field of the men of Beth‑shemesh and the people make a new cart; continues the same scene of seeing and responding to the ark.
- 2 Sam 6:12–15 (thematic): David’s bringing of the ark to Jerusalem features public rejoicing and celebration at the ark’s arrival (dancing, gladness) — a parallel motif of communal joy on seeing God’s presence.
- 1 Chron 15:25–28 (structural): Parallel account to 2 Samuel preserving the cultic procession and musical rejoicing when the ark is moved — similar liturgical/communal response to the ark’s arrival.
- Ps 132:8–9 (thematic): A liturgical plea for the LORD and his ark to ‘arise’ and come to his resting place; echoes the theological significance and joy attendant on the ark’s presence among the people.
Alternative generated candidates
- The cart came into the field of Joshua of Beth‑shemesh and stood there; there was a great stone there. They split the wood of the cart and offered the cows as a burnt offering to the LORD.
- The men of Beth Shemesh were reaping their wheat in the valley; they lifted up their eyes and saw the ark, and they rejoiced at the sight.
1 S.6.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והעגלה: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,def
- באה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- אל: NEG
- שדה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהושע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השמשי: ADJ,m,sg,def
- ותעמד: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- שם: ADV
- ושם: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אבן: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- גדולה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
- ויבקעו: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- עצי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- העגלה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- הפרות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- העלו: VERB,hifil,perf,3,pl
- עלה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:12 (structural): Immediate narrative precursor: describes the cart and the cows’ route to Beth‑shemesh, giving context for the cart’s arrival in Joshua’s field.
- 1 Samuel 6:15 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: describes the priests and Levites who saw the event and the offering/sacrifice carried out after the cart was cut up.
- Genesis 28:18–19 (thematic): Jacob sets up the stone he had used as a pillow as a pillar/monument; parallels the motif of erecting a stone to mark a sacred event or divine encounter.
- 2 Samuel 6:3–11 (thematic): Another tradition about transporting the Ark on a cart (and the problems that ensue, including offerings and the Ark’s temporary dwelling), thematically related to the Ark’s return and sacrificial responses.
Alternative generated candidates
- The Levites took down the ark of God and the chest that was with it, in which were the golden instruments, and set them on the great stone; and the men of Beth‑shemesh offered sacrifices on that day to the LORD.
- The cart came into the field of Joshua the Beth-shemite and stood there; there was a large stone. They split the wood of the cart and offered the cows as a burnt offering to God.
1 S.6.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- הורידו: VERB,hiph,impv,2,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- ארון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- הארגז: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- אשר: PRON,rel
- בו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- כלי: NOUN,m,pl,const
- זהב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וישמו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- האבן: NOUN,f,sg,def
- הגדולה: ADJ,f,sg,def
- ואנשי: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,cons
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שמש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- העלו: VERB,hifil,perf,3,pl
- עלות: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- ויזבחו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- זבחים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ביום: PREP
- ההוא: DEM,ms,sg
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 2 Samuel 6:12-15 (structural): David and the people bring the ark up to Jerusalem; Levites carry the ark and sacrifices are offered — a parallel episode of moving the ark and making burnt offerings before the LORD.
- 1 Chronicles 15:11-16, 25-29 (structural): David organizes the Levites to carry the ark properly and describes the accompanying sacrifices and worship — a parallel ritual and Levite responsibility for transporting the ark.
- Exodus 25:10-22 (thematic): Divine instructions for the construction and place of the ark (mercy-seat) emphasize the ark’s sanctity and centrality to Israelite worship, providing background for why the ark is handled reverently and offerings are made.
- Psalm 132:8-9 (thematic): A liturgical plea for the LORD to come to his resting place with the ark and for the priests to be clothed in righteousness; thematically connects bringing the ark and offering sacrifices to establish God’s presence.
- 1 Samuel 7:1-2 (structural): Follows the Beth-shemesh episode: the ark is taken to Kiriath-jearim and remains in the house of Abinadab, showing the immediate narrative outcome after the ark’s reception and the local offerings in 1 Sam 6.
Alternative generated candidates
- When the five lords of the Philistines saw it, they returned to Ekron that same day.
- The Levites took down the ark of God and the box that was with it, in which were the golden instruments, and set them on the large stone. The men of Beth Shemesh offered sacrifices and brought offerings to God on that day.
1 S.6.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וחמשה: CONJ+NUM,m,pl
- סרני: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- ראו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- וישבו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- עקרון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ביום: PREP
- ההוא: DEM,ms,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:15 (structural): Immediate narrative context: describes the ark’s arrival at Beth‑shemesh just before the five Philistine lords ‘saw’ and returned — the same sequence of events.
- 1 Samuel 6:17 (verbal): Direct continuation: this verse names the five Philistine lords mentioned in 6:16, providing the same actors and confirming the report of their return to Ekron.
- 1 Samuel 5:6-12 (thematic): Earlier account of the Philistines’ afflictions (tumors, panic) after taking the ark explains why the Philistine rulers are watching the ark’s departure and then hasten back to their cities in fear.
- 1 Chronicles 13:10-14 (thematic): Parallel theme of human reaction to the ark’s presence (Uzzah struck down and the ark detained at Obed‑Edom’s house): both passages show leaders/people responding with fear and decisive movement when confronted with God’s presence and its effects.
Alternative generated candidates
- These are the golden tumors which the Philistines returned as a guilt offering to the LORD: one for Ashdod, one for Gaza, one for Ashkelon, one for Gath, and one for Ekron.
- When the five lords of the Philistines saw it, they returned to Ekron on that day.
1 S.6.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואלה: CONJ+DEM,pl,abs
- טחרי: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- הזהב: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- השיבו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- אשם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- לאשדוד: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,def
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
- לעזה: PREP+NOUN,prop,f,sg,def
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
- לאשקלון: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,def
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
- לגת: PREP+NOUN,prop,f,sg,def
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
- לעקרון: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg,def
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:4 (verbal): Gives the instruction to make five golden tumors and five golden mice as an asham (guilt/trespass offering) — the same objects whose destinations are enumerated in 6:17.
- 1 Samuel 6:11 (structural): Reports that the Philistines' golden mice and images of their tumors were placed beside the Ark at Beth-shemesh, directly connecting the offerings named in 6:17 with their deposition.
- 1 Samuel 6:18 (structural): A close parallel/continuation that summarizes the golden mice and images of tumors according to the five Philistine cities and lords — essentially restating the distribution enumerated in 6:17.
- 1 Samuel 5:6-12 (thematic): Describes the plague of tumors (and distress) that fell on the Philistines after they captured the Ark — the afflictions that the golden tumors and mice symbolically acknowledge in the guilt offering.
- Leviticus 5:14-6:7 (allusion): Legal instructions for the asham (guilt/trespass) offering in the Priestly code — provides the cultic/terminological background for calling the Philistine gift an 'asham' in 1 Sam 6:17.
Alternative generated candidates
- The golden mice, for the number of all the cities of the Philistines, to the five lords — from the fortified city to the open village — and the great stone on which they set the ark of God remain to this day in the field of Joshua the Beth‑shemite.
- These are the golden tumors that the Philistines returned to God: one to Ashdod, one to Gaza, one to Ashkelon, one to Gath, and one to Ekron.
1 S.6.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועכברי: NOUN,m,pl,const
- הזהב: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מספר: VERB,qal,impf,1,m,sg
- כל: DET
- ערי: NOUN,f,pl,cons
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- לחמשת: NUM,card,sg,const
- הסרנים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- מעיר: PREP
- מבצר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ועד: CONJ+PREP
- כפר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הפרזי: ADJ,m,pl,def
- ועד: CONJ+PREP
- אבל: CONJ
- הגדולה: ADJ,f,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- הניחו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- עליה: PREP,3,f,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- ארון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- עד: PREP
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- הזה: DEM,m,sg
- בשדה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהושע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השמשי: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:17 (verbal): Gives the parallel, nearly identical inventory: the five golden mice and five golden emerods returned 'for a trespass offering' — same objects and distribution to the five Philistine city-lords.
- 1 Samuel 6:4–5 (quotation): Priestly instruction about making images of the tumors and mice and sending them with the ark — direct textual precursor to the offering described in 6:18.
- 1 Samuel 5:6–12 (thematic): Narrates the divine affliction on the Philistines (tumors/afflictions and panic with rodents) that motivates the Philistines' sending of the ark and the votive offerings in chapter 6.
- Leviticus 5:14–6:7 (thematic): Legal background on asham/trespass (guilt) offerings; 1 Sam 6 frames the Philistine gifts as a 'trespass offering,' which invokes this cultic/atonement category.
- 1 Samuel 7:12 (structural): Both 6:18 and 7:12 mention setting up a stone as a memorial; 7:12 (Ebenezer) provides a parallel motif of erecting stones to mark a divine act or deliverance.
Alternative generated candidates
- He struck the men of Beth‑shemesh because they had looked into the ark of the LORD; he struck among the people seventy men, fifty thousand men, and the people mourned because the LORD had struck the people with a great stroke.
- And the golden mice, in number for all the cities of the Philistines—belonging to the five lords—from the fortified city to the open village; and the great image upon which they had set the ark of God—until this day it is in the field of Joshua the Beth-shemite.
1 S.6.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- באנשי: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,cs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שמש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- ראו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- בארון: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ויך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- בעם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- שבעים: NUM,card,m,pl
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חמשים: NUM,card,pl
- אלף: NUM,m,sg
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויתאבלו: VERB,hitp,impf,3,m,pl
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- כי: CONJ
- הכה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בעם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- מכה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- גדולה: ADJ,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- 2 Sam 6:6-7 (verbal): Direct parallel narrative of the ark being handled improperly and God striking the man (Uzzah) for touching the ark during its transport; same motif of lethal divine retribution related to the ark.
- 1 Chron 13:9-10 (verbal): Chronicler's retelling of the same incident (the ark and Uzzah) with similar details; a parallel account reinforcing the consequence of irreverent contact with the ark.
- Leviticus 10:1-2 (thematic): Nadab and Abihu are consumed for offering unauthorized fire before the LORD; thematically related as examples of immediate, lethal punishment for improper approach to God's holy presence.
- Numbers 16:31-33 (thematic): Korah's rebellion and the earth opening to swallow the transgressors—another example of dramatic, communal divine judgment emphasizing the seriousness of rebellion/irreverence toward God's appointed order.
- Acts 5:1-11 (thematic): Ananias and Sapphira struck dead after deceit toward the Holy Spirit; a New Testament instance of sudden death as divine judgment within the believing community for irreverence/hypocrisy.
Alternative generated candidates
- The men of Beth‑shemesh said, “Who can stand before the LORD, this holy God? To whom will he go up away from us?”
- God struck the men of Beth Shemesh because they looked into the ark of God; he struck of the people seventy men—fifty thousand men. The people mourned, for God had struck the people with a great blow.
1 S.6.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- אנשי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שמש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מי: PRON,interr,sg
- יוכל: VERB,qal,impf,3,ms
- לעמד: VERB,qal,inf
- לפני: PREP
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- הקדוש: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- הזה: DEM,m,sg
- ואל: CONJ+PREP
- מי: PRON,interr,sg
- יעלה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- מעלינו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
Parallels
- Psalm 24:3-4 (verbal): Both verses pose a rhetorical question about who may approach or stand before the LORD, emphasizing moral/ritual purity required to be in God's presence.
- Isaiah 6:5 (thematic): Isaiah's confession 'Woe is me... for I am undone' after seeing the holy Lord parallels the awe and recognition of human inability to stand before God's holiness expressed by the men of Beth‑shemesh.
- 2 Samuel 6:9 (structural): David's fear concerning the ark's arrival ('How shall the ark of the LORD come to me?') echoes the Beth‑shemesh reaction to the holy presence of God and anxiety about who can bear it.
- Leviticus 10:3 (allusion): God's sanctification of those who approach Him and the warning about coming near in an improper way (context of Nadab and Abihu) underlies the Beth‑shemesh concern about standing before the 'holy God.'
Alternative generated candidates
- They sent messengers to the inhabitants of Kiriath‑jearim, saying, “The Philistines have returned the ark of the LORD; come down and take it up to you.”
- The men of Beth Shemesh said, "Who can stand before this holy God? To whom shall he go up from us?"
1 S.6.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישלחו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- מלאכים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- אל: NEG
- יושבי: PTC,qal,ptc,mp,cons
- קרית: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- יערים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- השבו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- את: PRT,acc
- ארון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- רדו: VERB,qal,imperative,2,m,pl
- העלו: VERB,hifil,perf,3,pl
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- אליכם: PREP+PRON,2,pl
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:11-12 (verbal): Immediate narrative parallel: describes how the Philistines placed the ark on a cart and sent it away (to Beth-shemesh), the same episode that culminates in the messengers sent to Kiriath‑Jearim.
- 1 Samuel 7:1-2 (structural): Continuation/aftermath: records the ark's arrival at Kiriath‑Jearim and its residence in the house of Abinadab, which is the intended result of the messengers' summons in 6:21.
- 2 Samuel 6:2-11 (thematic): Later narrative of transporting the ark to Jerusalem; parallels concerns about moving the ark, proper handling, and the consequences of improper transport (e.g., Uzzah's death).
- 1 Chronicles 13:6-14 (structural): Chronicle account of David's first attempt to bring the ark to Jerusalem and the fatal mishandling by Uzzah; echoes the theme of who may carry the ark and Israel's fear/respect toward it after its return from the Philistines.
- Exodus 25:10-22 (allusion): Divine instructions concerning the ark's construction and holiness underpin Israel's reverence and the precautions and responses surrounding the ark's movement and return.
Alternative generated candidates
- They sent messengers to the inhabitants of Kiriath‑jearim, saying, "The Philistines have returned the ark of God; come down and take it up to you."
1 S.7.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אנשי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- קרית: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- יערים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ויעלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- ארון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- אל: NEG
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אבינדב: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בגבעה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- אלעזר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- קדשו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- לשמר: VERB,qal,inf
- את: PRT,acc
- ארון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 6:21 (verbal): Same report that the people sent the ark to Kiriath‑jearim to the house of Abinadab — closely parallel wording and action.
- 2 Samuel 6:2–3 (verbal): David later takes the ark 'out of the house of Abinadab on the hill' — repeats location and the transfer motif (later narrative of moving the ark to Zion).
- 1 Chronicles 13:6–8 (structural): Parallel account of bringing the ark from the house of Abinadab and the ensuing transport incident (Uzzah), another retelling of the same tradition.
- Psalm 132:8 (thematic): Speaks of bringing the ark to its resting place (Zion) — shares the theological theme of the ark's movement and finding a dwelling for God's presence.
Alternative generated candidates
- The men of Kiriath‑jearim came and took up the ark of the LORD and brought it into the house of Abinadab on the hill; and they consecrated his son Eleazar to keep the ark of the LORD.
- The men of Kiriath‑jearim came and took up the ark of God and brought it into the house of Abinadab on the hill; they consecrated his son Eleazar to guard the ark of God.
The ark of the LORD remained in the country of the Philistines seven months.
The Philistines called together their priests and diviners and said, "What shall we do with the ark of the LORD? Tell us how we shall send it to its place."
They said, "If you send away the ark of the God of Israel, do not send it empty; but by all means send back a guilt offering to him. Then you will be healed, and it will be revealed to you why his hand has not turned away from you."
They said, "What guilt offering shall we send to him?" They answered, "Five golden tumors and five golden mice—for one plague has been upon all of you and upon your rulers."
"Make images of your tumors and images of your mice that have ravaged the land, and give them honor to the God of Israel; perhaps he will lighten his hand from you, from your gods, and from your land."
"Why then do you harden your hearts, as the Egyptians and Pharaoh hardened their hearts? When he had afflicted them, did he not let them go—he sent them away and they departed?"
"Now therefore take and prepare a new cart, and two milking cows that have borne no yoke; tie the cows to the cart and turn their calves away from them."
"Then take the ark of the LORD and put it upon the cart, and put the gold-dedications that you return to him for a guilt offering in a box beside it, and send it away; let it go."
"Watch and see: if it goes up by the way of its own border—Beth-shemesh—then Beth-shemesh has done us this great evil; but if not, we will know that his hand has not touched us, but it happened to us by chance." So the men did as they were commanded: they took two milking cows and tied them to the cart, and they turned their calves away from them at home.
They put the ark of the LORD upon the cart, and the box, and the golden mice, and the images of their tumors.
The cows went straight on the way to Beth-shemesh, along the highway; lowing as they went, they did not turn aside to the right or to the left. The rulers of the Philistines went after them to the border of Beth-shemesh.
The men of Beth-shemesh were reaping their wheat in the valley; they lifted up their eyes and saw the ark and rejoiced at the sight of it.
The cart came into the field of Joshua the Beth-shemite and stood there; there was a great stone. They split the wood of the cart and offered the cows as a burnt offering to the LORD.
The Levites took down the ark of the LORD and the box that was with it, in which were the gold objects, and set them upon the great stone; and the men of Beth-shemesh offered sacrifices on that day to the LORD.
The five rulers of the Philistines saw it and returned to Ekron that same day.
These are the golden tumors that the Philistines returned as a guilt offering to the LORD: one for Ashdod, one for Gaza, one for Ashkelon, one for Gath, and one for Ekron. And the golden mice—for the number of all the cities of the Philistines—to the five rulers, from fortified city to village, and to the great mound where they set the ark of the LORD;—until this day it is in the field of Joshua the Beth-shemite. And the LORD struck the men of Beth-shemesh, because they looked into the ark of the LORD; he struck among the people seventy men and fifty thousand. The people mourned, because the LORD had struck the people with a great blow.
The men of Beth-shemesh said, "Who is able to stand before the LORD, this holy God? To whom shall he go up from us?"
They sent messengers to the inhabitants of Kiriath-jearim, saying, "The Philistines have returned the ark of the LORD; come down and take it up for yourselves." So the men of Kiriath-jearim came and took up the ark of the LORD and brought it into the house of Abinadab on the hill, and they consecrated his son Eleazar to keep the ark of the LORD.