Ark of the Covenant
Definition, Etymology, and Significance
The Ark of the Covenant is a revered object in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. It is primarily known as a sacred chest or coffer that contains significant religious artifacts and symbolizes divine presence and covenant.
Etymology and Linguistic Roots
- Hebrew: The word for “Ark” is תֵּבָה (Teivah or Tebah), meaning a chest or a coffer.
- Chaldean (Aramaic): The term is תֵּיבוּתָא (Teivutha).
- Arabic: The words تابوت (Tābūt) and تابوة (Tabūh) are used.
Islamic Perspective
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Qur’anic Reference: The Ark of the Covenant is mentioned in the Qur’an, Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:249). The verse states, “The sign of his kingdom is that there shall come unto you the ark (Tābūt); in it shall be security (or the Shechinah, sakīnah, Heb. שְׁכִינָה) from your Lord, and the relics of what the family of Moses and the family of Aaron left; the angels shall bear it.”
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Interpretation by Jalālu’d-dīn: In Islamic exegesis, especially as described by Jalālu’d-dīn, the ark is believed to have contained images of the prophets and was sent down from heaven to Adam. It eventually came into the possession of the Israelites, who revered it and carried it into battle. It was later taken by the Amalekites but was miraculously returned by angels, who set it at Saul’s (T̤ālūt’s) feet, signifying his divine appointment as king.
Religious Significance
Judaism
In Jewish tradition, the Ark of the Covenant holds the Tablets of the Law given to Moses on Mount Sinai. It is a sacred container that represents God’s covenant with the Israelites.
Christianity
Christianity shares the Jewish understanding of the Ark’s significance, viewing it as a precursor to later Christian symbols of divine presence, such as the Eucharist.
Islam
In Islam, the Ark (Tābūt) symbolizes divine support and guidance. It was a sign of legitimacy for Saul’s (T̤ālūt’s) kingship and is seen as part of the Islamic prophets’ heritage.
Further Studies
To delve deeper into the Ark of the Covenant and its significance across different religious traditions, consider the following books:
- “The Quest for the Ark of the Covenant” by Stuart Munro-Hay
- “The Sign and the Seal: The Quest for the Lost Ark of the Covenant” by Graham Hancock
- “The Ark of the Covenant in Its Egyptian Context” by David A. Falk
- “The Ark of the Covenant: A Touchstone of the Truth” by George Wesley Buchanan
Takeaways
- The Ark of the Covenant is a significant religious artifact in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, symbolizing divine presence and covenant.
- The Hebrew term תֵּבָה (Teivah), Chald. תֵּיבוּתָא, and Arabic terminology تابوت (Tābūt) reflect its long-standing historical and religious roots.
- The Qur’an references the Ark to legitimize Saul’s (Tālūt’s) kingship, emphasizing divine approval and guidance.
Conclusion
The multifaith reverence for the Ark of the Covenant underscores its profound theological and cultural significance. It serves as a compelling symbol of divine assurance, heritage, and the unbroken chain of prophecy.
