Bible Figure
Uzzah
Biblical figure who died from touching the Ark of the Covenant
Uzzah was the man who died after taking hold of the ark of God when it was being transported to Jerusalem on a cart.
Biography
Second Samuel 6 and 1 Chronicles 13 describe David's attempt to bring the ark from the house of Abinadab. Uzzah and Ahio guided the cart. When the oxen stumbled, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark, and God struck him dead. David became angry and afraid, and the place was called Perez-uzzah. The later successful transport followed the prescribed Levitical manner.
Biblical Significance
Uzzah's death emphasizes the holiness of God and the requirement that sacred things be approached according to God's instructions, not merely with good intentions.