The answer is: It was carried on a cart pulled by cows

1 Samuel 6:10-12 - The cows pulled the cart along the road to Beth Shemesh

Imagine the scene: after the Philistines had endured a whirlwind of misfortunes since capturing the Ark of the Covenant, they were eager to return this symbol of Israel’s God. Rather than march it back in triumph, they came up with a unique plan that seems right out of an ancient comic strip. They took two cows, unhitched from their calves, hitched them to a cart, and set the Ark on board, essentially entrusting it to a pair of bewildered bovines.

In biblical times, cows stood only a notch below high-tech convenience—we’re talking a divine GPS that was “cow-powered!” Despite being pulled by cows with no training to follow a particular route, these animals went straight to Beth Shemesh. This area was prominent in Israelite history—reflecting the deep-rooted connection the Ark had with the Israelites’ covenant with God. Did you know that cows in the Bible often symbolize purity and do God's bidding without question?

When the cows traveled to Beth Shemesh, they left a trail of wonder. Their faithful movement was both miraculous and a poetic demonstration of God’s governance over the natural world. The people of Beth Shemesh rejoiced upon its arrival but were also reminded of the seriousness of treating the Ark with reverence. They dedicated the two cows as a burnt offering, further showing that something darkly unconventional could lead to a grateful return to poise and piety. This odd yet beautiful act highlights the intriguing dynamic of divine control and human involvement.