Key Figures — 1 Samuel 6

4 figures

1. Philistines

   Oppressors of Israel and custodians of the Ark of the Covenant.

   The Philistines, having captured the Ark of the Covenant, seek to return it to Israel after experiencing divine plagues.

   Related passages

   • 1 Samuel Chapter 5 (Philistines capture the Ark and suffer plagues)
   • Judges Chapter 13 (Philistines oppress Israel during the time of Samson)

   • #Philistines
   • #ArkOfTheCovenant
   • #Plagues

2. Israelites

   Recipients of the Ark of the Covenant upon its return.

   The Israelites receive the Ark back from the Philistines and offer sacrifices to God, acknowledging His power and holiness.

   Related passages

   • 1 Samuel Chapter 7 (Israelites repent and turn back to God)
   • Exodus Chapter 25 (Instructions for the Ark of the Covenant)

   • #Israelites
   • #ArkOfTheCovenant
   • #Sacrifice

3. Cows

   Animals used to transport the Ark back to Israel.

   Two milk cows, untrained and separated from their calves, miraculously carry the Ark directly to Beth-shemesh, demonstrating God's sovereignty.

   Related passages

   • 1 Samuel Chapter 6 (Cows carry the Ark)
   • Numbers Chapter 19 (Use of cows in sacrificial rituals)

   • #Cows
   • #Miracle
   • #BethShemesh

4. Beth-shemesh

   Location where the Ark is returned to Israel.

   The Ark arrives at Beth-shemesh, where the people rejoice and offer sacrifices, but some are struck down for looking into the Ark.

   Related passages

   • Joshua Chapter 15 (Beth-shemesh as a city in Judah)
   • 2 Samuel Chapter 6 (Uzzah struck down for touching the Ark)

   • #BethShemesh
   • #ArkOfTheCovenant
   • #Judgment

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