MPV Commentary

6-8. The procession arrived at Nachon's threshing-floor, also known as Chidon's (1Ch 13:9). The Chaldee version translates this phrase as "the place prepared for the reception of the ark," which is near the city of David (2Sa 6:13).

The oxen stumbled and shook the ark. In a moment of panic, Uzzah grabbed hold of it to steady it. Whether he was crushed by the falling ark or suddenly stricken with illness, he died instantly on the spot. This tragic event not only dampened the joyous atmosphere but also brought the procession to a halt. The ark remained where it was, near the capital city.

It's worth noting that the severity of Uzzah's punishment is proportionate to his offense. The Philistines suffered from diseases due to their lack of knowledge about God's law (1Sa 5:8-12), while the Bethshemites suffered but were not fatally punished (1Sa 6:19). However, Uzzah, a Levite who was well-instructed in God's law, paid with his life for his breach. We should not question God's dispensations; instead, we see that His purpose was to inspire awe of His majesty and a deep reverence for the symbols and ordinances of worship.

9-10. David was deeply afraid of the Lord on this day, fearing that he had provoked God's displeasure by moving the ark, and that the punishment would extend to himself and his people. He worried that they might make another mistake or neglect their duties during the further conveyance of the ark. As a result, he decided to wait for more guidance before proceeding.

11. Obed-edom the Gittite was appointed to care for the ark (1Ch 15:18, 21, 24; 16:5; 26:4). He is called a Gittite either because of his residence at Gath or more likely from Gath-rimmon, one of the Levitical cities (Jos 21:24, 25).