1 Samuel 6:12
And the kine took the straight way to the way of Beth–shemesh, and went along the highway, lowing as they went, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left; and the lords of the Philistines went after them unto the border of Beth–shemesh.
Cross-reference
1 Samuel 6:16
Parallel
In 1 Samuel 6:16, the Philistine lords witness the cows heading to Beth Shemesh and return to Ekron, completing the episode.
Joshua 21:16
Historical context
In Joshua 21:16, Beth Shemesh is a Levitical city, explaining why the ark was brought there and sacrifices offered.
1 Chronicles 6:59
Historical context
In 1 Chronicles 6:59, Beth Shemesh is again listed as a Levitical city, reinforcing its sacred status.