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 indicates a cause-and-effect relationship, referring back to the events described earlier in the chapter. The Philistines had captured the Ark of the Covenant and placed it in the temple of Dagon, their god. The subsequent fall of Dagon's statue before the Ark demonstrated the power of the God of Israel over the Philistine deity. This event serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the futility of idolatry.

to this day
This expression suggests that the practice or tradition mentioned has continued from the time of the event until the time of the writing. It implies a lasting impact of the divine intervention, emphasizing the historical reliability of the account. It also indicates that the memory of God's power was preserved among the Philistines, serving as a testament to His might.

the priests of Dagon
The priests were religious leaders responsible for the worship and rituals associated with Dagon, a major deity in Philistine culture. Dagon was often depicted as a fish or grain god, reflecting the agricultural and maritime aspects of Philistine life. The priests' adherence to the new practice underscores the profound effect the incident had on their religious customs.

and all who enter the temple of Dagon
This phrase broadens the scope of those affected by the event, including not just the priests but all worshippers. It highlights the communal nature of religious practices and the widespread acknowledgment of the event's significance. The temple served as a central place of worship and cultural identity for the Philistines.

in Ashdod
Ashdod was one of the five major Philistine cities, located along the coastal plain of modern-day Israel. Archaeological findings have confirmed its significance as a center of Philistine power and culture. The mention of Ashdod situates the narrative in a real geographical context, providing historical credibility.

do not step on the threshold
This practice likely arose as a superstitious response to the fall of Dagon's statue, which had broken at the threshold. It reflects a common ancient Near Eastern belief in the sacredness of thresholds as transitional spaces. The avoidance of stepping on the threshold became a ritualistic acknowledgment of the event, symbolizing respect or fear of the divine power that had been demonstrated. This practice is reminiscent of other biblical instances where physical spaces are marked by divine encounters, such as Jacob's dream at Bethel (Genesis 28:16-17).

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.