1 Samuel 6:5

Make images of your tumors and of the rats that are ravaging the land. Give glory to the God of Israel, and perhaps He will lift His hand from you and your gods and your land.

Study Bible

Make images of your tumors
The phrase "make images of your tumors" refers to the Philistines' attempt to appease the God of Israel by creating representations of the afflictions they suffered. The Hebrew word for "tumors" is "עֹפָל" (ophal), which can mean swellings or boils. This act of making images was a form of offering or atonement, acknowledging the divine source of their suffering. Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of creating votive offerings to deities in hopes of healing or favor.

and of the rats
The inclusion of "rats" in the offering is significant, as these creatures were seen as a plague upon the land. The Hebrew word "עַכְבָּר" (akhbar) translates to "mouse" or "rat," and these animals were likely associated with the destruction of crops and the spread of disease. This acknowledgment of the rats highlights the comprehensive nature of the calamity that had befallen the Philistines, suggesting a divine judgment that affected both health and sustenance.

that are destroying the land
The phrase "that are destroying the land" emphasizes the severity of the plague. The Hebrew root "שָׁחַת" (shachat) means to destroy or corrupt, indicating the widespread devastation caused by the rats. This destruction serves as a tangible sign of divine displeasure, reinforcing the need for the Philistines to seek reconciliation with the God of Israel.

Give glory to the God of Israel
"Give glory to the God of Israel" is a call for the Philistines to recognize the sovereignty and power of the God of Israel. The Hebrew word "כָּבוֹד" (kavod) means glory or honor, suggesting an acknowledgment of God's majesty and authority. This act of giving glory is not merely a verbal acknowledgment but involves a genuine recognition of God's supremacy over their own deities.

Perhaps He will lift His hand from you
The phrase "perhaps He will lift His hand from you" reflects a hope for divine mercy. The "hand" of God, in Hebrew "יָד" (yad), often symbolizes power and intervention. The Philistines express a desire for God to withdraw His punitive action, indicating their understanding of His control over their circumstances. This hope for relief underscores the belief in God's ability to both judge and show compassion.

and your gods and your land
The inclusion of "your gods and your land" highlights the comprehensive impact of God's judgment. The Philistines' gods, represented by idols, were powerless against the God of Israel, demonstrating His superiority. The "land," or "אֶרֶץ" (eretz) in Hebrew, signifies the entirety of their domain, affected by the divine curse. This acknowledgment serves as a humbling recognition of the God of Israel's dominion over all aspects of life, urging the Philistines to submit to His will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Philistines
A group of people who captured the Ark of the Covenant and experienced plagues as a result.

2. Ark of the Covenant
The sacred chest representing God's presence, captured by the Philistines.

3. God of Israel
The one true God, whose power and glory are acknowledged even by the Philistines.

4. Tumors and Rats
Physical afflictions sent by God as a judgment upon the Philistines for taking the Ark.

5. Land of the Philistines
The region suffering from the plagues due to the presence of the Ark.

Teaching Points

Acknowledging God's Sovereignty
The Philistines' decision to give glory to the God of Israel highlights the importance of recognizing God's supreme authority in our lives.

Repentance and Restoration
The act of making images of tumors and rats symbolizes an attempt at repentance. We should seek to make amends and turn back to God when we stray.

Consequences of Disobedience
The plagues serve as a reminder that disobedience to God can lead to severe consequences, urging us to live in obedience to His commands.

God's Glory Over Idols
The Philistines' experience underscores the futility of idol worship and the necessity of worshiping the one true God.

Intercession and Relief
The hope that God might lighten His hand upon them suggests the power of intercession and seeking God's mercy in times of trouble.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Philistines' response to the plagues reflect their understanding of the God of Israel, and what can we learn from their actions about acknowledging God's power in our lives?

2. In what ways do the plagues experienced by the Philistines parallel the plagues in Egypt, and what does this teach us about God's consistent nature?

3. How can we apply the concept of giving glory to God in our daily lives, especially in situations where we might be tempted to rely on our own strength or idols?

4. What are some modern-day "idols" that might distract us from fully worshiping God, and how can we ensure that we are giving Him the glory He deserves?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced consequences for disobedience. How did that situation lead you to repentance and a deeper understanding of God's mercy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7-12
The plagues of Egypt, where God demonstrated His power over the Egyptian gods, similar to how He showed His power over the Philistine gods.

1 Samuel 5
The preceding chapter details the capture of the Ark and the initial plagues, providing context for the events in 1 Samuel 6.

Isaiah 42:8
God declares His glory and refuses to share it with idols, paralleling the Philistines' acknowledgment of His power.

Acts 12:23
Herod's death for not giving glory to God, illustrating the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty.