Often abbreviated AN, this is a short-hand term first given to the early chapters of 1 Sam, which purports to depict the fate of the Ark from its removal from Shiloh until its installation in Jerusalem. The idea was first proposed by L. Rost in 1926 but its exact boundaries, and possible purpose, have been much debated since then, though most are agreed that it includes at the least Chaps 4-6. Though useful for scholars the idea has little direct relevance to preachers who do not work with often highly technical discussions about it.
For those of you who are interested in exploring this further, A. Stirrup, "'Why Has Yahweh Defeated Us Today Before the Philistines?" The Question of the Ark Narrative," Tyndale Bulletin 51.1 (2000): 81-100 Pdf N 7-8 (Open on Phone) is a good place to begin. The paper includes Hebrew words but they are explained everywhere it is used; a reader who does not know the language can still benefit from it though this will take some effort.
©ALBERITH
011121lch