1 Samuel 5:5

That is why, to this day, the priests of Dagon and all who enter the temple of Dagon in Ashdod do not step on the threshold.

Study Bible

That is why
This phrase introduces a cause-and-effect relationship, indicating that the events described in the preceding verses have led to a lasting tradition or practice. In the context of 1 Samuel 5, the Philistines had captured the Ark of the Covenant and placed it in the temple of their god, Dagon. The subsequent miraculous toppling of Dagon's statue serves as a divine assertion of God's supremacy. The phrase underscores the enduring impact of God's actions, which continue to influence behavior and beliefs.

to this day
This expression suggests the persistence of a tradition or practice over a significant period. It implies that the events surrounding the Ark and Dagon had a profound and lasting effect on the Philistines. Historically, this phrase is often used in the Bible to indicate that the consequences of divine intervention are not fleeting but have a lasting legacy. It serves as a reminder of God's enduring power and the lasting nature of His judgments.

neither the priests of Dagon
The priests of Dagon were the religious leaders responsible for the worship and rituals associated with the Philistine deity. Their avoidance of the threshold signifies a recognition of the power of the God of Israel, even among those who served other gods. This acknowledgment by the priests highlights the supremacy of the God of Israel over the false gods of the nations, a recurring theme in the Old Testament.

nor any who enter Dagon’s temple
This phrase extends the practice of avoiding the threshold to all who enter the temple, not just the priests. It indicates a communal acknowledgment of the event's significance. The temple, a place of worship and reverence, becomes a site of testimony to the power of the God of Israel. This collective behavior underscores the widespread impact of God's actions and serves as a witness to His authority.

step on the threshold
The threshold, in ancient Near Eastern culture, often held symbolic significance as a boundary between the sacred and the profane. By avoiding stepping on the threshold, the Philistines were acknowledging the power that had caused Dagon to fall. This act of avoidance becomes a ritualistic acknowledgment of the God of Israel's supremacy. It serves as a physical reminder of the divine encounter and the power of God to disrupt and challenge the status quo.

in Ashdod
Ashdod was one of the principal cities of the Philistines, known for its strategic and economic importance. The mention of Ashdod situates the event in a specific historical and geographical context, emphasizing the real-world impact of God's actions. The city's prominence in Philistine culture highlights the significance of the event, as it occurred in a major center of their religious and political life. This underscores the reach and influence of God's power beyond the borders of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dagon
A Philistine deity, often associated with fertility and grain. The idol of Dagon fell before the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing the supremacy of the God of Israel over pagan gods.

2. Ashdod
One of the five major Philistine cities. It was a center of worship for Dagon and the location where the Ark of the Covenant was brought after being captured by the Philistines.

3. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel. Its presence in the temple of Dagon led to the idol's downfall.

4. Philistines
A group of people who were often in conflict with Israel. They captured the Ark of the Covenant, leading to the events described in 1 Samuel 5.

5. Priests of Dagon
Religious leaders serving in the temple of Dagon. Their refusal to step on the threshold after the incident reflects a superstitious reverence and acknowledgment of the power of the God of Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Supremacy Over Idols
The fall of Dagon before the Ark illustrates the truth that no idol can stand before the living God. Believers are reminded to examine their lives for modern-day idols that may take precedence over God.

The Power of God's Presence
The presence of the Ark in a foreign temple caused chaos and demonstrated God's power. Christians are encouraged to invite God's presence into every area of their lives, trusting in His transformative power.

Respect for the Holy
The Philistines' reaction to the event shows a recognition of the sacred. Believers should cultivate a deep respect and reverence for the things of God, including His Word and His presence.

Consequences of Disobedience
The Philistines' experience serves as a warning about the consequences of opposing God. It is a call to obedience and submission to His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the fall of Dagon before the Ark of the Covenant teach us about the nature of God compared to idols?

2. How can we identify and remove modern-day idols in our lives that may be taking precedence over our relationship with God?

3. In what ways can we invite and honor God's presence in our daily lives, similar to how the Ark represented God's presence among the Israelites?

4. How does the reaction of the Philistines to the events in Ashdod challenge us to show reverence for the things of God in our own lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of disobedience to God. How did that experience shape your understanding of His authority and grace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
The commandment against idolatry highlights the futility of worshiping false gods, as demonstrated by Dagon's fall.

Isaiah 46:1-2
The prophecy against idols, where they are depicted as burdensome and powerless, parallels the events in Ashdod.

Philippians 2:10-11
The ultimate submission of all things to Christ echoes the submission of Dagon before the Ark.