Overview of 1 Chronicles 15:1–16:43

God had been blessing David (1 Chronicles 14), as well as “the household of Obed-edom,” where the ark had been left (13:13–14). Eventually David resumed bringing the ark to Jerusalem, where he “prepared a place” (15:1). This time he would follow the command Moses had given “according to the word of the Lord” (15:15). Parts of chapters 15–16 adapt material from 2 Samuel 6 and Psalms, with changes and additions reflecting the Chronicler’s interests. Much of the added detail concerns the role of the Levites and arrangements for singing praise.

We read an account of joyous celebration and praise of God, with people given specific tasks. Musical thanksgiving to the Lord accompanying the ark progression (1 Chron. 15:16–29) is to be a continuing activity, both before the ark (16:4–7, 37) and in the interim at Gibeon, accompanying the regular sacrifices (16:41–42). A lengthy psalm of thanksgiving with concluding petition is included (16:8–36).