Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them hath the LORD chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister unto him for ever.

1 CHRONICLES 15:2KJV
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1 Chronicles 15:2 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 15:2 mean?

1 Chronicles 15:2 describes King David declaring that only the Levites should carry the ark of God, because the LORD had chosen them for this special task and to serve Him forever. David is making sure that the proper people, according to God's instructions, are responsible for moving the ark.

David is speaking to the leaders and people of Israel as they prepare to bring the ark of God to Jerusalem. The situation comes after a previous failed attempt to move the ark, which resulted in tragedy because the proper procedures were not followed. David emphasizes that the Levites alone are set apart for this role, highlighting obedience to God's specific instructions.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 15:2

  • לֵוִיִּי (Leviyyim, "Levites"): This word refers to the tribe of Levi, who were set apart for temple service. Only Levites were allowed to carry the ark, showing the importance of following God's chosen order.
  • בָּחַר (bachar, "chosen"): This verb means "to choose" or "to select." The verse stresses that it was not David's idea, but the LORD's decision to appoint the Levites for this sacred duty.
  • שָׁרַת (sharat, "minister"): This word means "to serve" or "to minister." It highlights that the Levites' role was not just about carrying the ark, but also about ongoing service to God.

Why 1 Chronicles 15:2 matters

  • This verse explains why David insisted on following God's instructions exactly, correcting the earlier mistake when the ark was moved improperly.
  • It clarifies that certain roles in Israel's worship were not open to everyone, but were assigned by God's choice, emphasizing order and reverence.
  • The verse connects to the larger story of bringing the ark to Jerusalem, showing David's respect for God's holiness and the seriousness of worship.

Where else these words appear

“minister” Hebrew H8334 · used in 92 verses

  • Genesis 39:4 And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand.
  • 1 Samuel 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
  • Esther 1:10 On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, and Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas, the seven chamberlains that served in the presence of Ahasuerus the king,

“for” Hebrew H5704 · used in 97 verses

  • Genesis 3:19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.
  • 1 Samuel 20:15 But also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever: no, not when the LORD hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth.
  • Job 38:11 And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed?