2 Samuel 6:13 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 6:13 mean?

2 Samuel 6:13 describes how, as soon as the people carrying the ark of the LORD had walked six steps, David offered sacrifices of oxen and fattened animals. This act showed deep respect and thankfulness to God as the ark was brought toward Jerusalem.

In this scene, King David is overseeing the transport of the ark of the LORD, a sacred chest representing God's presence, to Jerusalem. The verse highlights the careful and reverent way the ark is moved, especially after a previous attempt ended in tragedy. The specific mention of stopping after six steps to sacrifice shows the seriousness and gratitude with which David and the people approached this moment.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 6:13

• "bare" (נָשָׂא, nāśā’): This word means "to carry" or "to lift." It emphasizes that the ark was being physically carried by people, not transported by cart, which is important because carrying it by hand was the proper, respectful method according to earlier instructions.
• "ark" (אֲרוֹן, ’ārōn): This refers to the sacred chest that symbolized God's presence with Israel. Its movement was a major religious event.
• "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of Israel’s God, underlining that the ark belonged to Him and that the sacrifices were directed to Him.
• "sacrificed" (זָבַח, zāvaḥ): This means to offer a sacrifice, usually an animal, as an act of worship or thanksgiving. The immediate sacrifice after just six steps shows an extra measure of reverence and gratitude.

Why 2 Samuel 6:13 matters

• This verse clarifies that David and the people learned from their earlier mistake (when Uzzah died for touching the ark) and now approached the ark with much greater care and reverence.
• The detail about sacrificing after only six steps highlights the seriousness and joy of the occasion, showing that bringing the ark to Jerusalem was not just a political act but a deeply spiritual one.
• Understanding the specific actions taken here helps explain why the rest of the chapter describes such celebration and worship; it sets the tone for the joyful arrival of the ark in Jerusalem.