The ark’s return
Jesus’ triumphal entry fulfills the typology of 2 Samuel 6 and 1 Kings 8, the ark’s entry into Jerusalem.
Jesus is in the center of a procession, as the ark was in Israel’s wanderings, preceded and followed by cheering crowds (Matthew 21:9). Jesus sits, strangely, on the back of two beasts of burden, which form a throne like the ark, cherubim flanking the Lord’s seat. He enters the temple, as the ark did at Solomon’s dedication.
Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem is the return of Yahweh, enthroned on the ark.
Peter Leithart
Peter J. Leithart is President of Theopolis Institute. He is the author of numerous books on theology, literature, and culture, including Theopolitan, Defending Constantine, and Baptized Body.
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