What happensPermalink
David gathers a great procession to bring the Ark of the Covenant from Kiriath-jearim to Jerusalem. But the ark is carried on a cart rather than by poles as God commanded, and when Uzzah touches it to steady it, God strikes him dead. When David finally brings the ark to Jerusalem with sacrifice and rejoicing, he dances before the Lord with all his might. His wife Michal complains, but David insists he will become even more undignified in devotion to God. Michal remains childless.
Why it mattersPermalink
The ark’s arrival in Jerusalem prepares the way for the covenant in chapter 7. Uzzah’s death underscores God’s holiness: worship must follow His word. Michal’s barrenness contrasts Saul’s fading house with God’s coming promise of David’s eternal house.
Key versePermalink
So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouting and with the sound of the horn.