Eli’s two sons accompanied the ark because they were priests and the ark had to be carried by priests (see 2 Samuel 6:3, 2 Samuel 6:13; Deuteronomy 10:8; Joshua 3:6; Joshua 6:6; 1 Kings 2:26).1 Seeing as the ark was the most sacred object in Israel, it was accompanied by the most prominent priests (Hophni and Phinehas). The presence of Eli’s two sons confirms that he had still not heeded the warning of the Lord about judgment (see 1 Samuel 2:27–36; 1 Samuel 3:11–18), and that both of his sons continued to serve in their priestly office despite their flagrant sins (see 1 Samuel 2:12–26).
4 So the people sent to Shiloh and brought from there the ark of the covenant of the LORD of hosts, who is enthroned on the cherubim. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were there with the ark of the covenant of God.