Commentary on 1 Samuel 6:19

Verse Reference: 1 Samuel 6:19 - "And he smote the men of Bethshemesh, because they had looked into the ark of the Lord, even he smote of the people fifty thousand and threescore and ten men: and the people lamented, because the Lord had smitten many of the people with a great slaughter."

Introduction

This verse provides a somber reflection on the holiness of God and the severe consequences of irreverence toward divine things. The event encapsulated here illustrates a critical moment in Israel's history, emphasizing the tension between God's power and human disobedience.

Contextual Analysis

The context of 1 Samuel 6 deals with the return of the Ark of the Covenant to Israel after being in Philistine captivity. The Ark, representing God's presence among His people, was treated casually by the men of Bethshemesh, which led to their grave consequences.

Historical Background

The Philistines captured the Ark during the battle at Aphek (1 Samuel 4:11). Its return was marked by great rejoicing among the Israelites. However, this rejoicing was tainted by an impulsive attitude toward the sacred. The Ark's presence demands a response of awe and reverence, signifying God’s holiness.

Analysis of Key Themes

• The Holiness of God: The severe judgment upon the men of Bethshemesh serves to underscore God's holiness. In both the Old and New Testaments, there is a clear standard for approaching God, which should not be taken lightly.
• Reverence in Worship: This event stresses the need for reverence in worship and in all dealings that pertain to the Lord. The actions of the men of Bethshemesh reveal a misunderstanding of what it means to be in the presence of the holy God.
• Consequences of Disobedience: The disproportionate reaction—fifty thousand and seventy deaths—indicates the seriousness of their error, offering a stark warning of the consequences that follow disobedience to divine commandments.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Commentary

According to Matthew Henry, this passage exemplifies the seriousness with which God regards His own institutions and how it behoves His people to honor them. Henry stresses the point that “in the midst of their joy, they forgot the greatness of God,” illustrating a casual attitude toward the sacred.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Barnes notes that the Bethshemites' curiosity in looking into the ark was reckless. Initially, it was an act of delight and joy; however, such familiarity with the holy is disparaged in Scripture. He firmly states that “no man can behold God’s glory without due preparation.” He also interprets the 'fifty thousand and threescore and ten' as a reflection of the misery sin brings against those who fail to duly respect divine command.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke explains that even if the figure of ‘fifty thousand and threescore and ten’ may seem much exaggerated, it served to symbolize the total devastation of a community that treated holy things lightly. He emphasizes that the real lesson is to reconsider how one approaches God, particularly in worship, and the importance of adherence to the divine statutes laid down, particularly concerning the Ark.

Theological Implications

1 Samuel 6:19 calls the reader to reflect on the nature of God's justice, the meaning of holiness, and the gravity of sin. The theology here emphasizes:

• The Righteous Judgment of God: God's judgment was not arbitrary; it was a direct response to an affront against His holiness.
• Encouragement for Proper Worship: It is vital for worshippers to approach God with a heart and mindset steeped in respect.
• God's Mercy Amidst Judgment: While the judgment is severe, the mere fact that the Ark was returned indicates God's desire for reconciliation with His people.

Practical Applications

For contemporary readers, especially pastors, theologians, and laypeople alike, this passage and its commentary invite reflection on several fronts:

• Examine Attitudes Toward Sacred Practices: Are we maintaining a healthy reverence for God in our practices and teachings?
• Reassess Worship Experiences: Is our worship characterized by awe, or have we become too familiar and casual?
• Value of Obedience: Consider the implications of our actions and understand that disobedience can carry grave consequences.

Conclusion

1 Samuel 6:19 serves as a cautionary tale that transcends time, alerting all who seek to follow God to the necessity of reverence for His holiness, proper understanding of His requirements, and the dire consequences of casual disrespect toward divine matters. As we endeavor to apply these lessons, may we seek to approach God with the reverence He is due, recognizing His profound and sovereign presence in all aspects of life.