What is this Earth Charter/Ark of Hope connection to Islam?
Ark of the Covenant
This limestone relief from Capernaum, 4th century C.E., may be the ark of the covenant on a cart when the Philistines returned it to Israel.
Photo by Barry Bandstra
This account of the war with the Philistines interrupts the history of Samuel. In fact, he plays no role in it. The story appears to have been placed here to fulfill the judgment word of Eli's demise. It also demonstrates some things about the power of Israel's Yahweh. First, he refuses to be "used." He cannot be mechanically called on to perform for Israel's benefit, as they had attempted in battle at Aphek. Second, though apparently captured by the Philistines, Yahweh proves to be more powerful than their god Dagon, and Dagon even finds himself bowing down to Yahweh. Third, the Israelites had better respect him, or they will die, as did the men at Beth-shemesh.
Now Samuel returns to the story. He gathered the Israelites together at Mizpah and renewed their commitment to Yahweh. The Philistines fought them there but were defeated. In this part of the account (7:3-17) Samuel is described as Israel's great savior and judge, after the model of the earlier judge heroes. He is talked about as if he is about to pass from the scene, and yet he will be a major force behind the scenes for much of the remainder of First Samuel.