Biblical Context:
The account of gold tumors and rats is found in the Old Testament, specifically in the narrative concerning the Ark of the Covenant's capture and return by the Philistines. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 5-6. The Philistines, after capturing the Ark from the Israelites, experienced a series of divine judgments, which included afflictions of tumors and a plague of rats.

1 Samuel 5-6 Overview:
After the Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant, they placed it in the temple of their god Dagon in Ashdod. The presence of the Ark brought calamity upon the Philistines, as the statue of Dagon fell before the Ark, and the people were struck with tumors. The affliction spread to other Philistine cities, including Gath and Ekron, as the Ark was moved in an attempt to alleviate the suffering.

Realizing the severity of their plight, the Philistines sought counsel from their priests and diviners on how to return the Ark to Israel. They were advised to send it back with a guilt offering to appease the God of Israel. The offering consisted of five gold tumors and five gold rats, corresponding to the number of Philistine rulers and cities affected by the plague.

Symbolism and Significance:
The gold tumors and rats served as a symbolic representation of the plagues that had afflicted the Philistines. The use of gold, a precious metal, indicated the Philistines' acknowledgment of the severity of their offense and their desire to make amends. The number five, representing the five principal cities of the Philistines—Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron—underscored the widespread impact of the divine judgment.

Theological Implications:
The narrative of the gold tumors and rats highlights several theological themes. Firstly, it underscores the holiness and power of the God of Israel, who cannot be manipulated or contained by human hands. The afflictions served as a divine demonstration of His sovereignty over all nations, including the Philistines.

Secondly, the account illustrates the concept of divine retribution and the necessity of atonement. The Philistines' decision to send a guilt offering reflects an understanding, albeit limited, of the need to seek reconciliation with the God they had offended.

Lastly, the account serves as a reminder of the consequences of idolatry and the futility of opposing the will of God. The Philistines' experience with the Ark of the Covenant reveals the impotence of their gods and the ultimate authority of the God of Israel.

Biblical Text (1 Samuel 6:4-5):
"And they said, 'What guilt offering should we send back to Him?' They replied, 'Five gold tumors and five gold rats, according to the number of the Philistine rulers, since the same plague has struck both you and your rulers. Make images of your tumors and of the rats that are destroying the land. Give glory to the God of Israel. Perhaps He will lift His hand from you and your gods and your land.'"

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the ancient Near East, it was common to create votive offerings in the shape of the affliction from which one sought relief. The Philistines' choice of gold for the tumors and rats reflects this cultural practice, as well as their recognition of the need to honor the God of Israel with a valuable offering.

Conclusion:
The account of the gold tumors and rats is a vivid illustration of the interaction between the divine and human realms, showcasing the power of God and the necessity of acknowledging His authority. Through this narrative, the Bible communicates enduring truths about God's holiness, justice, and the importance of repentance and atonement.