Definition: And they drew out the staves [of the ark], that the ends of the staves were seen from the ark before the oracle; but they were not seen without. And there it is unto this day.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 5:9. It’s a really important and evocative passage about God’s protection and the divine presence within the Ark of the Covenant. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, it says: “God was carefully arranging the staves (the wooden poles) of the ark so that you could see them from outside, but he wanted to keep them hidden until the very end.” Let’s unpack it further: “And they drew out the staves [of the ark]…” : This refers to the skilled artisans who carefully constructed and decorated the wooden poles of the Ark. They weren't just putting them in place; they were meticulously arranging them. “…that the ends of the staves were seen from the ark before the oracle…” : “Oracle” means a messenger or witness, often a priest or official. This suggests that God was looking at the ark with an eye to observe it. The fact that they were seeing them before the oracle indicates a deliberate act of observation and perhaps even a test – God was watching closely. “But they were not seen without.” : This is a crucial part. It means the arrangement wasn’t complete until after the ark had been opened and revealed to the people. The staves weren't just sitting there; they were being displayed, offering a visible sign of God's presence. “And there it is unto this day.” : This emphasizes that the arrangement remains a testament to God’s plan and protection. It’s a permanent reminder of his power and faithfulness. What does it mean symbolically? This verse speaks to several things: God's Presence: The staves are a visual representation of God’s presence. Protection: It shows that God is watching over the people and the sacred objects within the Ark. Divine Order: It highlights the careful and deliberate nature of God's plan, showing he doesn't simply act randomly. In short, it’s a powerful image of God revealing himself to his people through the visible presence of the ark. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?