1 Chronicles 15:6

Of the sonnes of Merari: Asaiah the chiefe, and his brethren two hundred and twentie. 1 Chronicles 15:6 (KJV)

The passage records that David rose and led all Israel to Baalah, also called Kirjath‑jearim in Judah, to bring up the ark of the LORD, which dwelt between the cherubim and bore God’s name. This event is recorded in 1 Chronicles 15:6 (KJV).

Context: This verse belongs to the narrative of David’s preparations to move the ark to Jerusalem. After an earlier failed attempt, David consulted Scripture, recognized his mistake, and arranged for the Levites to transport the ark according to divine instruction.

Symbolism of the Ark: The ark of God, the Ark of the Covenant, was a sacred container that symbolised God’s presence among His people. It held the tablets of the Ten Commandments and represented the covenant between God and Israel. Because of its holiness, the ark had to be carried with the utmost reverence and in strict accordance with the instructions given to Moses.

Significance of the Location: Baalah (or Baile of Judah) is identified with Kirjath‑jearim, a city belonging to the tribe of Judah. The ark had remained there for many years after being returned from the Philistines (see 1 Samuel 7:2). David’s choice of this site as the starting point demonstrated his desire to unite the nation in worship of the true God.

The Dwelling Place of God: The verse notes that God’s dwelling place was “between the cherubim” on the mercy seat of the ark (Exodus 25:22). This emphasizes that God’s presence was not limited to a physical building but was manifested through the covenant relationship symbolised by the ark.

Acknowledging God’s Name: The text also records that God’s name was called on the ark. This underscores the importance of God’s name as a representation of His character and authority, and it shows the people’s reverence for His sovereignty as they moved the holy object.