The placement of the law beside the ark of the covenant symbolized its authority and the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. It was not placed inside the ark, which held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, but beside it, signifying that it stood as a witness to the entire covenant given through Moses.
“Take this Book of the Law, and put it beside the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, that it may be there as a witness against you.” (Deuteronomy 31:26)
The law was not just a set of rules; it was a testimony. Its position next to the ark emphasized that obedience to God’s commands was central to Israel’s national life and relationship with Him. The ark represented God’s presence and mercy, while the Book of the Law reminded the people of their responsibility to walk in His ways.
By placing it beside the ark, the law served as a visible and enduring witness. If the people ever turned away, they could not claim ignorance. The written law was there, preserved, accessible, and confirmed as the standard of righteousness.
This placement also indicated the unity of law and worship. The ark was in the holiest part of the tabernacle, and placing the law beside it tied the people’s obedience directly to their worship of God.
