THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
The ark served as a symbol of Him. He guided the Israelites through the desert, assuming the role of God, for He was their leader. This is affirmed by the Psalmist who declares, "O God, when Thou didst precede Thy people, when Thou didst pass through the wilderness, the earth was shaken, for the heavens also were melted" (Psalm 67:8). Although the ark consistently led the way, it is emphasized here that God was the one who went before them.
Read more (205 words)
Further evidence is found in the account of how God commanded the Israelites through Moses to boldly approach Mount Seir and engage the Amorites in battle (Deuteronomy 1:7, 19). However, those who received this directive succumbed to fear, believing they had to rely solely on their own strength rather than seeking divine assistance. Consequently, they sat down in sorrow by the mountain, as recorded (Deuteronomy 1:45). To this, the Lawgiver responded with rightful anger, threatening not to bring them into the promised land. Ignoring this warning, and with a misguided change of heart, they attempted to ascend the mountain, disobeying the Lord again by taking up arms against the Amorites. Yet God, speaking through Moses, had already predicted their fate: "Do not go up, and do not fall in the sight of your enemies, for I am not with you" (Deuteronomy 1:42). Despite their persistent disobedience, they forcibly attempted to climb the mountain, as noted. However, the ark of God, it is stated, did not accompany them and remained in the camp (Deuteronomy 1:43). This highlights that even when God declared, "I am not with you," the ark did not go with the disobedient, clearly signifying that it took on the role of God's guidance.