Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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ARK

The chest containing the tables of the law. God ordered Moses to construct it of acacia wood, telling him the exact dimensions. "Inside the ark you must place the Testimony I shall give you" (Exodus 25:10-22). This Ark of the covenant became a dramatic symbol in Israelite history, accompanying the people on their wilderness journeys and throughout Joshua's rule. Later it was seized by the Philistines but surrendered in fear to Israel. David brought the ark to Jerusalem, where it remained until the first temple was destroyed. At that point it disappeared from history.

See Also: SANCTUM SANCTORUM