2 Samuel 6:1

David gathered together. See the same narrative, with a longer introduction, in 1 Chron. 13:1, 6–14. David purposed that Jerusalem should be not only the civil but also the religious capital of the nation. For many years the ark had been at Kirjath-jearim, where it had been taken upon its return from the Philistines after the death of Eli (1 Sam. 7:1). David desired to house the ark in a national shrine at Jerusalem. Before proceeding with this purpose he called together the leaders of the nation (1 Chron. 13:1–4), to counsel with them regarding his plan.

All the chosen men. The transfer of the ark was to be a matter of imposing display and national rejoicing. David requested 30,000 of the leading men of the realm to gather in Jerusalem to participate in the solemn festivities.