I Samuel 4-5

“The Glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured” (4:22). The corruption of the priests Phineas and Hophni, leaders of Israel’s worship, led to God’s judgment on the community (ch 4). This divine judgment included Israel being defeated by the Philistines, the death of the priests, and the capture of the ark, symbol of God’s presence (4:17). However, God’s power had not changed: the idol Dagon could not stand in God’s presence (5:4).

“What shall we do with the ark of the God of Israel?” (5:8). Israel learned that God’s favor cannot be owned or manipulated; he calls his people to humbly, honestly, seek him.