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

It's fascinating to dive into the story of the Ark of the Covenant's return in 1 Samuel. After spending some tumultuous time in Philistine territory, where it gained notoriety for the plagues that befell the Philistines, the Ark was sent back to Israel as a symbol of relief and restoration. So, picture this: a brand new cart, leading the way down the road to Beth Shemesh.

Funny enough, the divine logistics got a little quirky! The cows weren’t hitched up by skilled livestock handlers but were chosen because they were new mothers. They had just calved, and naturally, they might have preferred to stay close to their calves. So, this route became a test of divine intervention rather than human decision-making. Unnaturally, these cows refused to turn back to their young ones and headed straight toward Israelite territory. Only a miracle could lead them along that path, don't you think?

This event is layered with symbolism. The gold objects returned with the Ark served as offerings, reflecting the deep human need for reconciliation after a disjointed relationship with the divine. Joining the dots, it echoes themes of sacrifice and return—a recurring motif in biblical narratives, culminating in many life lessons about the quest for forgiveness, accountability, and peace. Not to forget, this served as a literal cart bringing the divine presence back to the people, reviving the wheels of community worship. Isn't it remarkable how these ancient stories can keep delivering doses of moral and spiritual nourishment?