1 Samuel 6:17

As a guilt offering to the LORD, the Philistines had sent back one gold tumor for each city: Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron.

Study Bible

As a guilt offering to the LORD
The term "guilt offering" in Hebrew is "אָשָׁם" (asham), which signifies a sacrifice made to atone for an offense. In the context of the Philistines, this offering was an acknowledgment of their transgression against the God of Israel by capturing the Ark of the Covenant. Theologically, this reflects the universal recognition of guilt and the need for atonement, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture, pointing ultimately to the atoning work of Christ.

the Philistines had sent back
The Philistines, a seafaring people known for their conflicts with Israel, recognized the power of the God of Israel after suffering plagues. Their decision to send back the Ark with offerings illustrates a moment of submission and acknowledgment of divine sovereignty. Historically, this act underscores the cultural and religious exchanges between neighboring peoples in the ancient Near East.

these gold tumors
The "gold tumors" were crafted representations of the afflictions that had befallen the Philistines. Gold, a precious metal, signifies the value and seriousness of their offering. Theologically, this act of crafting their afflictions into gold objects can be seen as an attempt to tangibly express repentance and seek healing, a practice that echoes the biblical principle of offering one's best to God.

one for Ashdod, one for Gaza, one for Ashkelon, one for Gath, and one for Ekron
These cities were the principal cities of the Philistine pentapolis. Each city had been affected by the plagues, and thus each contributed to the guilt offering. This distribution highlights the collective responsibility and shared guilt among the Philistines. Archaeologically, these cities have been excavated, revealing insights into Philistine culture and their interactions with Israel. Scripturally, the mention of these cities serves as a reminder of the pervasive reach of God's judgment and mercy, extending beyond Israel to the nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Philistines
A group of people who were adversaries of Israel and had captured the Ark of the Covenant. They experienced plagues as a result of possessing the Ark.

2. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence with Israel. Its capture and return are central to this account.

3. Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron
Five major cities of the Philistines, each represented by a gold tumor as part of the guilt offering to the LORD.

4. Guilt Offering
A sacrificial offering made to atone for sin or guilt. In this context, it was made by the Philistines to appease the God of Israel.

5. Plagues
The afflictions that struck the Philistines, prompting them to return the Ark with offerings to seek relief.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Holiness
The account underscores God's sovereignty over all nations and His holiness, which demands reverence and respect.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The Philistines' experience serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God's will and mishandling sacred things.

Repentance and Restoration
The Philistines' guilt offering illustrates the importance of acknowledging wrongdoing and seeking restoration with God.

Symbolism of the Guilt Offering
The gold tumors symbolize the Philistines' acknowledgment of God's power and their desire to make amends.

God's Mercy
Despite their initial defiance, the Philistines' eventual submission and offering highlight God's willingness to forgive and restore.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Philistines and the Ark of the Covenant illustrate the concept of God's sovereignty over all nations?

2. In what ways do the plagues experienced by the Philistines parallel the plagues in Egypt, and what can we learn from these parallels about God's power and judgment?

3. How does the concept of a guilt offering in Leviticus help us understand the actions of the Philistines in 1 Samuel 6:17?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Philistines' eventual decision to return the Ark and make a guilt offering, and how can these lessons apply to our own lives?

5. How does this passage challenge us to consider the ways we handle the sacred aspects of our faith, and what steps can we take to ensure we are honoring God appropriately?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The plagues in Egypt parallel the plagues experienced by the Philistines, demonstrating God's power and judgment.

Leviticus 5
Discusses the concept of guilt offerings, providing a background for understanding the Philistines' actions.

1 Samuel 5
Details the events leading up to the return of the Ark, including the plagues that afflicted the Philistines.