Uzzah Struck Dead for Touching the Ark
Uzzah reaches out to steady the ark and is struck dead by the LORD for his error.
David was bringing up the ark of God on a new cart. When the oxen stumbled at Nachon's threshingfloor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God and took hold of it. The anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah, and God smote him there for his error; and he died by the ark of God.
God
The threshingfloor of Nachon
What Happened
Key KJV Scriptures
"And when they came to Nachon's threshingfloor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen shook it. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah; and God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God."
Spiritual Significance
The death of Uzzah taught Israel that the holy God is approached on His terms, not ours. David later brought the ark up the right way, with Levites bearing it on poles.
Lesson for Today
Sincere intention is not a substitute for obedience. Approach God with reverence according to His revealed will.
Key People
Frequently Asked Questions
Wasn't Uzzah trying to help?
Yes, but the ark was to be carried by Levites with poles (Numbers 4). The whole procedure already disobeyed God's instructions.
What happened after Uzzah died?
David, afraid, left the ark with Obed-edom for three months before bringing it to Jerusalem the right way (2 Samuel 6:10-13).
Where in the Bible is the miracle of Uzzah Struck Dead for Touching the Ark?
The miracle of Uzzah Struck Dead for Touching the Ark is recorded in 2 Samuel 6:6-7 (KJV).
Who performed the miracle of Uzzah Struck Dead for Touching the Ark?
Scripture records that God carried out this miracle at The threshingfloor of Nachon. Ultimately the power belonged to God, who alone does wondrous things (Psalm 72:18).
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