[bible]2 Samuel 6:1-11[/bible]

In this event, Oza kept the Ark of God from either falling off the ox cart or tipping over on the cart and was killed by God for touching the Ark. It does say that God's indignation against Oza was rekindled by this, so Oza must have done something previously to displease God.

However, it seems the purpose of Oza's act was to save the Ark from damage, so why did God kill Oza? Even David was unhappy with the death of Oza and was then afraid to bring the Ark on to the City of David. There must be more to this story.

It seems to me the standard of "the ends do not justify the means" plays a part in this story. Oza's desire was good, to save the ark, but his means disobeyed God's instructions.

God provided a specific way for the ark to be carried. That was disregarded, presumably in favor of speed? The ark was not to be transported by ox cart, and had the men been obedient, the situation never would have happened. Additionally, the priests were warned never to touch the ark, which instruction was disregarded, or not remembered, leading to the death of Oza.

Excerpt from the latter portion of:
http://www.aish.com/torahportion/mayano ... ou_See.asp

Best wishes on this lovely day.


[excerpt follows]
THE LESSON OF UZO

The story of Uzo the Levite recounted in Samuel II, Chapter 6: is a perfect illustration of the basic idea.

David went to fetch the Ark of the Covenant that had been captured by the Philistines. Instead of the Levites carrying it on their shoulders as required by Jewish law, he mistakenly had it transported on a wagon. The wagon hit a bump, the Ark seemed to slip, and Uzo, the chief Levite present, put out his arm to support it and keep it from falling. God instantly struck him dead and the entire venture was abandoned.

The Rabbis point out Uzo's sin. He should have realized that despite appearances, man does not support the Ark. It is the Ark that supports man.

Thank you for the explanation and the reference.