After the Philistines had captured
The Philistines were a significant adversarial group to the Israelites, often depicted in the Old Testament as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God's people. The Hebrew root for "captured" is "לָכַד" (lakad), which conveys the idea of seizing or taking by force. This act of capturing the ark signifies a moment of triumph for the Philistines, yet it also sets the stage for God's sovereignty to be demonstrated despite apparent defeat. Historically, the Philistines were a seafaring people, known for their military prowess and advanced iron technology, which often gave them an advantage over the Israelites.

the ark of God
The ark of God, also known as the Ark of the Covenant, was the most sacred object in Israelite worship, representing God's presence among His people. It contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. The Hebrew word for "ark" is "אֲרוֹן" (aron), meaning a chest or box. The capture of the ark was not just a military loss but a spiritual crisis for Israel, as it symbolized the departure of God's glory from their midst. This event challenges the Israelites to reflect on their relationship with God and the consequences of their disobedience.

they took it from Ebenezer
Ebenezer, meaning "stone of help" in Hebrew, was a site of previous Israelite victory over the Philistines (1 Samuel 7:12). The irony of the ark being taken from a place named for divine assistance underscores the gravity of Israel's spiritual decline. It serves as a reminder that past victories do not guarantee future success if the people stray from God's commandments. The movement of the ark from Ebenezer marks a transition from a place of divine help to a period of divine judgment and correction.

to Ashdod
Ashdod was one of the five major Philistine cities, known for its worship of the god Dagon. The Hebrew name "אַשְׁדּוֹד" (Ashdod) can be associated with strength or power, fitting for a city that was a center of Philistine culture and religion. By bringing the ark to Ashdod, the Philistines intended to demonstrate the superiority of their god over the God of Israel. However, this sets the stage for God to reveal His power and supremacy, even in a foreign land. The journey of the ark to Ashdod is a pivotal moment that highlights the futility of idolatry and the ultimate authority of the God of Israel over all nations and deities.

carried it
The phrase "carried it" refers to the Philistines transporting the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest containing the tablets of the Ten Commandments, among other holy items. The Hebrew root for "carried" is "נָשָׂא" (nasa), which means to lift, bear, or carry. This action signifies the Philistines' triumph over Israel in battle, as they believed capturing the Ark symbolized capturing Israel's God. However, this act of carrying the Ark into a pagan temple foreshadows the impending divine retribution, as the Ark represents the presence and power of the one true God, who cannot be contained or controlled by human hands.

into the temple of Dagon
"Dagon" was a major deity of the Philistines, often associated with fertility and grain. The temple of Dagon was a place of worship and reverence for the Philistines, and bringing the Ark into this temple was an attempt to demonstrate the superiority of Dagon over the God of Israel. Historically, Dagon was depicted as part man and part fish, symbolizing the Philistines' maritime culture. This act of placing the Ark in Dagon's temple is a direct challenge to the God of Israel, setting the stage for a confrontation between the false god and the true God.

set it beside his statue
The phrase "set it beside his statue" indicates the Philistines' intention to place the Ark in a subordinate position to the idol of Dagon. The Hebrew word for "set" is "יָצַב" (yatsab), meaning to place or set firmly. This act of placing the Ark beside Dagon's statue was meant to symbolize the subjugation of Israel's God to Dagon. However, this juxtaposition highlights the futility of idol worship and the sovereignty of the God of Israel. The subsequent events in the narrative reveal that no idol can stand in the presence of the Almighty, as the statue of Dagon falls before the Ark, demonstrating God's supreme authority and power over all false gods.

When the people of Ashdod
The city of Ashdod was one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, a group often in conflict with Israel. Historically, Ashdod was a significant center of Philistine culture and religion. The Philistines were known for their worship of deities like Dagon, and Ashdod housed one of the main temples dedicated to this god. The mention of "the people of Ashdod" highlights the collective experience of the Philistines as they encounter the power of the God of Israel, contrasting their polytheistic beliefs with the monotheistic faith of the Israelites.

got up early the next morning
The phrase suggests a sense of urgency or routine, as the people of Ashdod rise to begin their day. In the context of ancient cultures, early rising was often associated with religious duties or daily labor. The early morning discovery of Dagon's fall underscores the immediacy and shock of the event, as the Philistines are confronted with the impotence of their god in the presence of the Ark of the Covenant.

there was Dagon, fallen on his face
Dagon was a major deity in the Philistine pantheon, often associated with grain and agriculture. The image of Dagon "fallen on his face" is symbolic of submission and defeat. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, prostration was a gesture of worship or subjugation. The fall of Dagon before the Ark signifies the supremacy of the God of Israel over the gods of the nations, illustrating a powerful theological statement about the futility of idolatry.

before the ark of the LORD
The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in Israelite worship, representing the presence and power of Yahweh. Its placement in the temple of Dagon was an attempt by the Philistines to assert dominance over the God of Israel. However, the narrative demonstrates that the presence of the Ark brings about the humiliation of Dagon, reinforcing the idea that no other god can stand before the LORD. This event foreshadows the ultimate victory of God's kingdom over all false powers.

So they took Dagon and returned him to his place
The act of returning Dagon to his place reveals the Philistines' attempt to restore order and maintain their religious practices despite the clear sign of their god's defeat. It highlights the stubbornness of idolatry and the human tendency to cling to false securities. This action serves as a cautionary tale for believers, emphasizing the need to recognize and submit to the true God rather than relying on powerless idols. The narrative invites reflection on the futility of resisting God's will and the call to worship Him alone.

But when they got up early the next morning
This phrase sets the scene for a new day, emphasizing the continuity of God's actions and the unfolding of His divine plan. The Philistines, having captured the Ark of the Covenant, are about to witness a powerful demonstration of God's supremacy. The early morning signifies a fresh revelation, a new opportunity for the Philistines to recognize the power of the God of Israel.

there was Dagon, fallen on his face on the ground
Dagon, the chief deity of the Philistines, is depicted here in a posture of submission and defeat. The Hebrew root for "fallen" (נָפַל, naphal) conveys a sense of being overthrown or cast down. This imagery is significant as it symbolizes the impotence of false gods before the true God. Historically, Dagon was associated with fertility and grain, yet here he is powerless, emphasizing the futility of idol worship.

before the ark of the LORD
The Ark of the Covenant represents the presence and power of Yahweh, the God of Israel. Its presence in the temple of Dagon serves as a stark contrast between the living God and lifeless idols. The phrase underscores the theme of divine sovereignty, as the ark's presence alone causes the downfall of Dagon, illustrating that no other power can stand before the Lord.

with his head and hands broken off
The breaking of Dagon's head and hands is symbolic of total defeat and humiliation. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the head represented wisdom and authority, while hands symbolized power and action. The Hebrew word for "broken" (כָּרַת, karath) implies a cutting off or severing, indicating a decisive and irreversible act by God. This act serves as a divine judgment against idolatry and a demonstration of God's unmatched power.

and lying on the threshold
The threshold of a temple was considered a sacred boundary. The fact that Dagon's head and hands are found there signifies a desecration of the Philistine temple and a clear message that their god has been rendered powerless. This detail highlights the futility of trusting in idols and the need to recognize the true God who transcends all human and divine boundaries.

Only Dagon’s body remained
This phrase emphasizes the completeness of Dagon's defeat. The Hebrew word for "body" (גְּוִיָּה, geviyah) refers to a lifeless corpse, underscoring the idea that Dagon is nothing more than a powerless idol. The narrative invites readers to reflect on the emptiness of idolatry and the need to turn to the living God, who alone is worthy of worship and reverence.

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.

Now the hand of the LORD
The phrase "hand of the LORD" is a powerful biblical metaphor representing God's active intervention and authority. In Hebrew, "hand" (יָד, yad) often symbolizes power and control. Here, it signifies God's direct involvement in the affairs of the Philistines, demonstrating His sovereignty and ability to execute judgment. This phrase reminds us of God's omnipotence and His ability to influence human history according to His divine will.

was heavy upon the people of Ashdod
The term "heavy" (כָּבֵד, kaved) in Hebrew conveys a sense of weightiness or severity. It indicates that God's presence was not only felt but was burdensome and oppressive to the Philistines. Ashdod, one of the principal cities of the Philistines, becomes a focal point of divine judgment. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God's will and the seriousness with which He defends His holiness and honor.

and He ravaged them
The word "ravaged" suggests a thorough and devastating impact. In the context of divine judgment, it implies that God allowed calamity to befall the Philistines as a direct result of their actions. This act of ravaging is not arbitrary but a response to the Philistines' capture of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's presence and covenant with Israel. It underscores the principle that God will not be mocked, and His holiness demands reverence.

and afflicted them with tumors
The affliction of "tumors" (עֳפָלִים, opalim) is a specific and painful judgment. Historically, this has been interpreted as a form of plague or disease, possibly related to the bubonic plague, given the symptoms described. This affliction serves as a tangible sign of God's displeasure and a call to repentance. It highlights the physical and spiritual consequences of sin and the need for humility before God.

both Ashdod and its territory
The inclusion of "its territory" indicates that the judgment was not confined to the city alone but extended to the surrounding areas. This widespread impact emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's judgment and serves as a warning to all who might challenge His authority. It also reflects the interconnectedness of communities and the far-reaching effects of sin and rebellion against God.

When the men of Ashdod saw what was happening
The city of Ashdod was one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, a people often in conflict with Israel. The phrase "saw what was happening" indicates a recognition of divine intervention. The Hebrew root for "saw" (רָאָה, ra'ah) implies not just physical sight but understanding and perception. The men of Ashdod were witnessing the power of the God of Israel, which was manifesting in their midst through plagues and the fall of their idol, Dagon. This acknowledgment by the Philistines highlights the universal recognition of God's sovereignty, even among those who do not worship Him.

they said, 'The ark of the God of Israel must not stay here with us
The "ark of the God of Israel" refers to the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments and represented God's presence with His people. The Philistines had captured the Ark, thinking it would bring them power, but instead, it brought calamity. The phrase "must not stay here with us" reflects a desperate realization that the presence of the Ark was too powerful and dangerous for them to handle. This moment underscores the holiness of God and the reverence due to Him, as even His enemies recognize the need to distance themselves from His overwhelming presence.

because His hand is heavy upon us
The "hand" of God is a metaphor for His power and judgment. The Hebrew word for "hand" (יָד, yad) often symbolizes strength and authority. The phrase "is heavy upon us" suggests a burden or affliction, indicating that the Philistines were experiencing severe consequences due to their possession of the Ark. This serves as a reminder of God's justice and the seriousness of His holiness. The Philistines' suffering was a direct result of their disrespect for the sacred, illustrating the principle that God's presence demands reverence and obedience.

and upon our god Dagon
Dagon was a major deity of the Philistines, often depicted as a fish-god or a god of grain. The mention of "our god Dagon" highlights the contrast between the living God of Israel and the powerless idols of the nations. The fall of Dagon before the Ark (as described earlier in the chapter) symbolizes the supremacy of the God of Israel over all false gods. This phrase serves as a powerful testament to the futility of idolatry and the ultimate victory of God's truth over deception. The Philistines' acknowledgment of their god's defeat is a prophetic foreshadowing of the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all earthly powers.

So they called together all the rulers of the Philistines
The Philistines were a confederation of city-states, each ruled by its own leader or "ruler." The Hebrew word for "rulers" here is "seren," which indicates a lord or prince. Historically, the Philistines were known for their military prowess and their conflicts with Israel. This gathering of rulers signifies a collective decision-making process, highlighting the gravity of the situation they faced with the Ark of the Covenant in their midst.

and asked, 'What shall we do with the ark of the God of Israel?'
The Ark of the Covenant, representing the presence and power of the God of Israel, was a source of fear and confusion for the Philistines. The Hebrew word for "asked" is "amar," which can also mean to say or speak. This indicates a deliberative process, as they sought wisdom on how to handle the divine artifact that was causing them distress. The Philistines recognized the Ark's power, even if they did not understand its significance fully.

They replied, 'Let the ark of the God of Israel be moved to Gath.'
Gath was one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, known for its strength and strategic importance. The decision to move the Ark to Gath reflects a pragmatic approach, perhaps hoping that a change in location might alleviate the plagues they were experiencing. The Hebrew root for "moved" is "suwr," which means to turn aside or remove. This action underscores their desperation and lack of understanding of the true nature of the God of Israel.

So they moved the ark of the God of Israel
The repetition of the phrase "the ark of the God of Israel" emphasizes the centrality of the Ark in this narrative. The Philistines' actions were driven by fear and a desire to rid themselves of the source of their afflictions. This movement of the Ark also foreshadows the continued journey and the unfolding of God's plan, demonstrating His sovereignty over all nations, even those who do not recognize Him. The historical context here is rich with the tension between the Philistines and Israelites, showcasing the power struggle and the divine intervention in human affairs.

But after they had moved it
This phrase refers to the movement of the Ark of the Covenant, which had been captured by the Philistines. The Ark, representing God's presence, was moved from Ashdod to Gath. The Hebrew root for "moved" (נָשָׂא, nasa) implies a physical carrying or lifting, indicating the Philistines' attempt to control or manipulate the divine presence. Historically, this reflects the Philistines' misunderstanding of the Ark's sacredness, treating it as a mere trophy of war rather than the holy symbol of the God of Israel.

the hand of the LORD
In Hebrew, "hand" (יָד, yad) often symbolizes power or action. Here, it signifies God's active intervention. The "hand of the LORD" is a recurring biblical motif representing divine judgment or deliverance. In this context, it underscores God's sovereignty and His ability to assert His will against those who oppose Him, regardless of their earthly power.

was against the city
The city in question is Gath, one of the five principal cities of the Philistines. The phrase indicates a direct divine opposition to the city, highlighting the futility of human efforts against God's will. Historically, this serves as a reminder of the Philistines' continued defiance and the consequences of their actions against God's chosen people.

causing a great panic
The Hebrew word for "panic" (מְהוּמָה, mehumah) conveys chaos and confusion. This divine-induced panic reflects the fear and disorder that ensued among the Philistines, illustrating the psychological impact of God's judgment. It serves as a powerful reminder of the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).

He afflicted the men of the city
The affliction is a direct result of divine judgment. The Hebrew verb "afflicted" (נָכָה, nakah) implies a striking or smiting, indicating a severe and intentional act by God. This demonstrates God's ability to humble the proud and bring low those who exalt themselves against Him.

both young and old
This phrase emphasizes the indiscriminate nature of God's judgment. It affected all demographics, underscoring the totality of the divine response to sin. It serves as a sobering reminder that God's justice is comprehensive and impartial.

with an outbreak of tumors
The Hebrew term for "tumors" (עֳפָלִים, ophalim) is often associated with painful swellings or boils. This physical affliction was a tangible sign of God's displeasure and a direct consequence of the Philistines' actions. Archaeologically, there is evidence of similar afflictions in ancient times, which adds historical credibility to the biblical account. This serves as a powerful testament to the reality of divine retribution and the seriousness of sin.

So they sent the ark of God to Ekron
The phrase "So they sent" indicates a decisive action taken by the Philistines. The Hebrew root for "sent" is שָׁלַח (shalach), which often implies a deliberate dispatching or sending away. This reflects the Philistines' desperation to rid themselves of the ark due to the calamities it brought upon them. The "ark of God" is central to this narrative, representing the tangible presence and power of Yahweh among His people. Historically, the ark was a sacred chest containing the tablets of the Ten Commandments, symbolizing God's covenant with Israel. "Ekron" was one of the five major Philistine cities, and its mention here highlights the widespread panic and fear among the Philistines as the ark moved from city to city, bringing divine judgment.

As the ark of God was entering Ekron
The phrase "was entering" suggests an ongoing action, indicating the ark's movement into Ekron. The Hebrew verb בּוֹא (bo) is used here, often meaning to come or go, emphasizing the ark's approach and the impending consequences. The "ark of God" again underscores the divine presence and the seriousness of the situation. Ekron, being the last of the Philistine cities to receive the ark, represents the culmination of the Philistines' failed attempts to control or contain the power of the God of Israel. This movement of the ark serves as a narrative device to demonstrate God's sovereignty and the futility of opposing His will.

the people of Ekron cried out
The "people of Ekron" refers to the inhabitants of this Philistine city. Their "cried out" is from the Hebrew זָעַק (za'aq), which conveys a loud, urgent call for help or protest. This reaction is one of fear and desperation, as they anticipate the same divine afflictions that befell the other Philistine cities. The collective cry of the people highlights the widespread recognition of the ark's power and the fear it instilled, serving as a testament to God's might and the acknowledgment of His supremacy even among the enemies of Israel.

'Why have you brought the ark of the God of Israel here
The question "Why have you brought" reveals the Ekronites' bewilderment and distress. It suggests a lack of understanding or control over the situation. The "ark of the God of Israel" is a significant title, emphasizing the ark's association with the God of Israel, Yahweh, and His covenantal relationship with His people. This acknowledgment by the Philistines of the ark's divine origin and power underscores the narrative's theme of God's dominion over all nations and peoples, not just Israel.

to kill us and our people?'
The phrase "to kill us and our people" reflects the Ekronites' fear of death and destruction, which they associate with the presence of the ark. The Hebrew root מוּת (muth) for "kill" indicates a fear of mortality and divine judgment. This fear is not unfounded, as previous cities experienced plagues and devastation due to the ark's presence. The mention of "our people" highlights the communal aspect of their fear, recognizing that the consequences of the ark's presence affect the entire community. This serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of God's holiness and the consequences of opposing His will, inspiring a reverent awe for His power and justice.

So they assembled all the rulers of the Philistines
The Philistines were a confederation of city-states, each ruled by its own leader. The term "assembled" indicates a gathering of significant importance, suggesting a crisis that required collective decision-making. Historically, the Philistines were known for their military prowess and their pantheon of gods, yet here they are depicted as recognizing a power greater than their own. This assembly underscores the gravity of the situation and the desperation of the Philistines in dealing with the Ark of the Covenant.

and said, 'Send the ark of the God of Israel away
The Ark of the Covenant, representing the presence and power of Yahweh, was a source of fear for the Philistines. The phrase "send the ark" reflects their acknowledgment of its divine power and their inability to control or contain it. Theologically, this moment highlights the sovereignty of God over all nations and the futility of opposing His will. The Philistines' decision to send the Ark away is an act of submission to the God of Israel, albeit out of fear rather than faith.

Let it return to its own place
The desire for the Ark to "return to its own place" signifies a recognition of boundaries and the sacredness of the Ark's rightful dwelling among the Israelites. This phrase suggests a respect, albeit reluctant, for the divine order established by God. It also reflects a historical understanding of territorial deities, where gods were believed to have power primarily within their own lands. The Philistines' wish for the Ark to return underscores their hope to restore peace and order by respecting the divine boundaries.

so that it will not kill us and our people
The fear of death and destruction is palpable in this phrase. The Philistines had experienced the severe consequences of possessing the Ark, which they attributed to the wrath of the God of Israel. This acknowledgment of divine judgment serves as a reminder of the holiness and justice of God, who cannot be mocked or manipulated. The phrase also highlights the communal aspect of divine retribution, affecting not just individuals but entire communities.

For a deadly plague had filled the city with panic
The "deadly plague" is a manifestation of God's judgment upon the Philistines for capturing the Ark. Historically, plagues were often seen as divine punishment, and this particular plague caused widespread panic. The use of the word "panic" indicates a state of chaos and fear, reflecting the powerlessness of the Philistines in the face of divine wrath. This serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of defying God and the need for reverence and obedience.

the hand of God was heavy upon it
The "hand of God" is a biblical metaphor for God's power and intervention in human affairs. The phrase "heavy upon it" conveys the intensity and severity of God's judgment. In the Hebrew context, the hand symbolizes strength and authority, and here it illustrates God's active role in bringing about justice. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of God's omnipotence and the reality of His judgment against those who oppose His will. It calls believers to recognize the seriousness of sin and the necessity of aligning with God's purposes.

Those who did not die
This phrase indicates a distinction between two groups of people affected by the divine judgment. The Hebrew root here suggests a remnant or survivors, emphasizing God's selective judgment. Historically, this reflects the severity of God's wrath upon the Philistines for capturing the Ark of the Covenant. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the consequences of opposing His will.

were afflicted with tumors
The Hebrew word for "tumors" is often associated with painful swellings or boils. This affliction was a direct result of the Philistines' disrespect for the sacred Ark. Archaeological findings suggest that such diseases were not uncommon in ancient times, but the specificity here points to a supernatural cause. This serves as a testament to God's power to protect His holiness and the seriousness of His covenant with Israel.

and the outcry of the city
The "outcry" signifies a loud lament or plea for relief, indicating the severity of the suffering. In the Hebrew context, an outcry often reaches God, suggesting a desperate appeal for divine intervention. This reflects the Philistines' recognition, albeit reluctantly, of the power of the God of Israel. It underscores the universal acknowledgment of God's authority, even among those who do not worship Him.

went up to heaven
This phrase illustrates the direction of the outcry, symbolizing a plea reaching the divine realm. In biblical literature, heaven is often depicted as God's dwelling place, and the imagery here suggests that the cries of the Philistines were heard by God. This serves as a powerful reminder of God's omnipresence and His ability to hear and respond to human suffering, even when it comes from those outside His covenant community.