The Levites that taught all Israel. — In the law (Nehemiah 8:7; comp. also 2 Chronicles 17:8-9).
Which were holy unto the Lord. — Separated to His service (Exodus 28:36, “Holiness to the Lord,” the inscription on Aaron’s mitre),
Put the holy ark in the house. — This command implies that the ark had been removed from its place in the inner sanctuary. The removal probably took place under Manasseh or his son, with the object of saving the sacred symbol from profanation. Or perhaps the repair of the Temple under Josiah had necessitated such a step. A third explanation takes the words in the sense of “Let the ark be, where it stands, in its proper place. Do not give a thought to your ancient function of bearing it about; but set your minds upon present duties.” This, however, is too artificial.
It shall not be a burden. — Literally, hearing on the shoulder is not for you. (Comp. the like statement in 1 Chronicles 23:26; see also Numbers 4:15; Numbers 7:9; 1 Chronicles 15:2.)
Serve now the Lord... and his people. — In the manner indicated in 2 Chronicles 35:4-6.