After the Philistines had captured the ark of God
The capture of the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines marks a significant moment in Israel's history. The Ark, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel, was taken during a battle at Ebenezer. This event highlights Israel's spiritual decline and the consequences of their disobedience. The Philistines, a seafaring people from the Aegean region, were one of Israel's main adversaries. Their capture of the Ark symbolizes a temporary triumph over Israel, but it also sets the stage for God's power to be demonstrated among the Philistines.

they took it from Ebenezer
Ebenezer, meaning "stone of help," was a site near Aphek where Israel had previously set up camp. The name itself is ironic in this context, as the Israelites experienced defeat rather than divine assistance. This location is significant in Israel's history, as it later becomes a place of victory and remembrance when Samuel sets up a stone to commemorate God's help (1 Samuel 7:12). The movement of the Ark from Ebenezer signifies a shift in the narrative from Israel's defeat to the unfolding of God's sovereignty.

to Ashdod
Ashdod was one of the five major Philistine cities, located along the coastal plain of modern-day Israel. It was a center of worship for the Philistine god Dagon. The transfer of the Ark to Ashdod is significant because it places the symbol of Israel's God in the heart of Philistine territory, directly challenging the power of their deities. This sets the stage for the events that follow, where God's supremacy is demonstrated through the plagues and the fall of Dagon's idol (1 Samuel 5:2-5). The presence of the Ark in Ashdod foreshadows the eventual return of the Ark to Israel, emphasizing God's control over all nations and His ability to protect His honor.

carried it into the temple of Dagon
The Philistines, having captured the Ark of the Covenant, brought it into the temple of their god, Dagon, in Ashdod. This act was symbolic of their belief in the superiority of Dagon over the God of Israel. Dagon was a major deity in the Philistine pantheon, often associated with fertility and grain. Archaeological findings suggest that temples dedicated to Dagon were prominent in Philistine cities, indicating his importance in their religious practices. The act of placing the Ark in Dagon's temple was intended to demonstrate the Philistines' victory and the subjugation of Israel's God to their own deity.

and set it beside his statue
Placing the Ark beside the statue of Dagon was a deliberate act to show that the God of Israel was now subservient to Dagon. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the placement of captured religious artifacts in the temple of a victor's god was a common practice, symbolizing the defeat of the captured people's deity. This act, however, sets the stage for the subsequent events where God demonstrates His power over Dagon, as described in the following verses. Theologically, this foreshadows the ultimate triumph of God over all false gods and idols, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, such as in Isaiah 42:8, where God declares His glory will not be given to another. This also prefigures the supremacy of Christ, who is exalted above all powers and authorities (Philippians 2:9-11).

When the people of Ashdod got up early the next morning
Ashdod was one of the five major Philistine cities, known for its strategic location and strong fortifications. The Philistines were a seafaring people, often in conflict with Israel. The early morning rising of the people suggests a routine or ritual, possibly related to their worship practices. This timing emphasizes the immediacy and surprise of the event that follows.

there was Dagon, fallen on his face before the ark of the LORD.
Dagon was a major deity of the Philistines, often associated with grain and fertility. His temple in Ashdod was a significant religious site. The image of Dagon fallen on his face is symbolic of submission and defeat, especially in the presence of the ark, which represented the presence and power of the God of Israel. This act of falling prophesies the ultimate defeat of false gods before the true God, echoing themes found in Isaiah 45:23, where every knee shall bow to God.

So they took Dagon and returned him to his place.
The Philistines' response to return Dagon to his place indicates their attempt to restore order and maintain their religious beliefs despite the clear sign of their god's impotence. This act of restoring Dagon can be seen as a denial of the power of the God of Israel, similar to how people often resist acknowledging divine truth. It also foreshadows the repeated futility of idolatry, as seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in Isaiah 44:9-20, where the folly of idol worship is highlighted.

But when they got up early the next morning
This phrase indicates the Philistines' eagerness to check on their god, Dagon, after the previous day's events. In ancient cultures, early morning was often a time for religious rituals and checking on sacred spaces. The Philistines, having captured the Ark of the Covenant, were likely anxious to see the outcome of placing it in Dagon's temple.

there was Dagon, fallen on his face before the ark of the LORD
The image of Dagon fallen prostrate before the Ark symbolizes the superiority of the God of Israel over the Philistine deity. In ancient Near Eastern culture, falling on one's face was a sign of submission or defeat. This act foreshadows the ultimate triumph of God over false idols, a theme echoed in passages like Isaiah 45:23, where every knee shall bow to God.

with his head and his hands broken off
The breaking of Dagon's head and hands signifies the complete powerlessness and defeat of the idol. In ancient warfare, decapitation and the removal of hands were often symbolic of total conquest. This imagery is reminiscent of the fate of Goliath, whose head was cut off by David (1 Samuel 17:51), further emphasizing God's victory over His enemies.

and lying on the threshold
The threshold of a temple was considered a sacred boundary. The fact that Dagon's head and hands were found there could symbolize the desecration of the Philistine temple and the impotence of their god. This event may have led to the Philistine practice of not stepping on the threshold, as mentioned in Zephaniah 1:9.

Only the torso remained
The remaining torso of Dagon highlights the futility of idol worship. In biblical theology, idols are often depicted as lifeless and powerless (Psalm 115:4-8). This incident serves as a stark reminder of the living God's supremacy over man-made images, reinforcing the call to worship Him alone.

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).

Now the hand of the LORD was heavy on the people of Ashdod and its vicinity
The phrase "the hand of the LORD" signifies God's direct intervention and power. In biblical terms, God's "hand" often represents His authority and ability to execute judgment or deliverance (Exodus 9:3, Isaiah 41:10). Ashdod was one of the five major Philistine cities, located in the coastal region of what is now modern-day Israel. The Philistines had captured the Ark of the Covenant, and this act of desecration led to divine retribution. The "vicinity" indicates that the impact of God's judgment extended beyond the city itself, affecting the surrounding areas. This demonstrates the widespread nature of God's power and the seriousness of the offense against Him.

ravaging them
The term "ravaging" suggests a severe and destructive impact. This can be understood as a form of divine punishment for the Philistines' disrespect towards the Ark, which symbolized God's presence among His people. The use of such a strong term underscores the intensity of the affliction and serves as a warning to those who oppose or dishonor God. This act of ravaging can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to protect His covenant and His people, even when they are not present to defend themselves.

and afflicting them with tumors
The affliction of "tumors" is a specific form of suffering imposed by God. The Hebrew term used here can also be translated as "boils" or "swellings," indicating a painful and humiliating condition. This affliction is reminiscent of the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 9:9-11), where God used physical ailments to demonstrate His power and compel obedience. The tumors served as a tangible sign of God's displeasure and a call to repentance. Some scholars suggest a connection to bubonic plague, as the symptoms described align with historical accounts of such outbreaks. This affliction highlights the seriousness of defying God's holiness and the consequences of possessing the Ark without reverence.

And when the men of Ashdod saw what was happening
The city of Ashdod was one of the five major Philistine cities, known for its strategic location and strong fortifications. The Philistines had captured the Ark of the Covenant from the Israelites, believing it would bring them power and victory. However, the presence of the Ark brought calamity instead. The phrase "saw what was happening" refers to the plagues and destruction that befell the city, including the fall of their idol Dagon and the outbreak of tumors among the people. This reflects the biblical theme that God will not be mocked and that His presence demands reverence and holiness.

they said, “The ark of the God of Israel must not stay here with us
The Philistines recognized the Ark as the symbol of the God of Israel's presence and power. Despite their initial triumph in capturing it, they quickly realized that the Ark was not a mere trophy but a source of divine judgment. This acknowledgment by the Philistines highlights the sovereignty of God over all nations and peoples, a recurring theme throughout the Bible. The decision to remove the Ark underscores the fear and respect that even pagan nations had for the God of Israel when confronted with His power.

because His hand is heavy upon us
The phrase "His hand is heavy upon us" indicates the severity of God's judgment. In biblical terms, the "hand of God" often symbolizes His power and intervention in human affairs, whether for blessing or judgment. The Philistines experienced God's hand as a force of punishment, manifesting in physical afflictions and the humiliation of their deity, Dagon. This serves as a reminder of God's justice and the consequences of opposing Him.

and upon our god Dagon.”
Dagon was a major deity in the Philistine pantheon, often associated with fertility and grain. The fall of Dagon's statue before the Ark, as described earlier in the chapter, symbolized the superiority of the God of Israel over the false gods of the nations. This event foreshadows the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all earthly powers and idols. It also serves as a type of Christ, who would later demonstrate His authority over spiritual and earthly realms, fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah's dominion.

So they called together all the rulers of the Philistines and asked
The Philistines were a confederation of city-states, each ruled by its own leader or "seren." These rulers were responsible for making decisions that affected the entire Philistine territory. The calling together of these rulers indicates the seriousness of the situation. The Philistines had captured the Ark of the Covenant, a significant religious artifact for the Israelites, and were experiencing calamities as a result. This gathering reflects a common ancient Near Eastern practice of consulting leaders or diviners in times of crisis.

“What shall we do with the ark of the God of Israel?”
The Ark of the Covenant was central to Israelite worship, symbolizing God's presence among His people. Its capture was initially seen as a victory for the Philistines, but the subsequent plagues and afflictions led them to question its presence. The Philistines recognized the power associated with the Ark, even if they did not fully understand it. This question highlights their desperation and fear, as they sought a solution to the divine retribution they were experiencing.

“It must be moved to Gath,” they replied.
Gath was one of the five major Philistine cities, along with Ashdod, Ashkelon, Ekron, and Gaza. The decision to move the Ark to Gath suggests an attempt to distribute the burden or test if the calamities would follow the Ark. Gath's selection might have been due to its strategic importance or the belief that its gods or defenses could withstand the Ark's power. This decision reflects a lack of understanding of the true nature of the God of Israel, treating the Ark as a mere object rather than the dwelling place of the divine.

So they carried away the ark of the God of Israel.
The act of moving the Ark demonstrates the Philistines' continued misunderstanding and underestimation of its significance. This movement sets the stage for further divine intervention, as the Ark's presence in Philistine territory continues to bring about God's judgment. The narrative underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and power, which cannot be contained or manipulated by human hands. This event foreshadows the eventual return of the Ark to Israel, symbolizing God's enduring covenant with His people.

But after they had moved the ark to Gath
The Philistines moved the Ark of the Covenant to Gath, one of their five major cities. Gath was known as a stronghold of the Philistines and is often associated with giants, such as Goliath. The movement of the Ark signifies the Philistines' attempt to control the power of Israel's God, not understanding its sacredness. This act reflects a common ancient Near Eastern practice of capturing religious symbols to demonstrate dominance over a conquered people.

the LORD’s hand was also against that city
The phrase "the LORD’s hand" indicates divine intervention and judgment. In biblical terms, God's hand often symbolizes His power and authority. The Philistines' experience with the Ark reveals that God's presence cannot be manipulated or contained by human efforts. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to act beyond human understanding or control.

throwing it into great confusion
The confusion in Gath can be seen as a divine disruption of social and civic order. This chaos is reminiscent of other biblical instances where God confounds human plans, such as the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9). The confusion underscores the futility of opposing God's will and the disorder that ensues when people attempt to usurp divine authority.

and afflicting the men of the city, both young and old, with an outbreak of tumors
The affliction of tumors is a direct consequence of mishandling the Ark. The Hebrew term used here can also be translated as "hemorrhoids" or "plagues," suggesting a severe and humiliating physical ailment. This affliction parallels the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 9:9-11), serving as a divine warning and a call to repentance. The inclusion of "both young and old" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's judgment, affecting all demographics within the city. This event foreshadows the ultimate judgment and redemption found in Christ, who bears the afflictions of humanity to bring healing and restoration.

So they sent the ark of God to Ekron
The Philistines, having captured the Ark of the Covenant, experienced severe afflictions in Ashdod and Gath, prompting them to send it to Ekron. Ekron was one of the five major Philistine cities, located in the southwestern part of Canaan. The movement of the Ark among these cities highlights the Philistines' misunderstanding of the God of Israel, treating the Ark as a mere object rather than recognizing its sacredness. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and the futility of idolatry, as seen in Isaiah 46:1-2, where idols are powerless before the true God.

but as it arrived, the Ekronites cried out
The reaction of the Ekronites underscores the fear and panic that the presence of the Ark induced among the Philistines. Their cry indicates a recognition of the power associated with the Ark, despite their lack of faith in the God of Israel. This fear is reminiscent of the terror that fell upon the inhabitants of Jericho in Joshua 2:9-11, where the fame of God's mighty acts preceded the Israelites.

“They have brought us the ark of the God of Israel
The phrase "the God of Israel" acknowledges the distinct identity and power of Yahweh, contrasting with the local deities of the Philistines. This acknowledgment by the Philistines, albeit out of fear, points to the universal recognition of God's supremacy, as echoed in Philippians 2:10-11, where every knee shall bow to Christ.

in order to kill us and our people!”
The Ekronites' fear of death reflects the severe consequences experienced by the Philistines due to the Ark's presence, including plagues and destruction. This mirrors the judgment that falls upon those who oppose God, as seen in the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-12). It also foreshadows the ultimate judgment and deliverance themes found in Revelation, where God's enemies face destruction while His people are saved. The Ark, a type of Christ, symbolizes God's presence and the dual nature of His coming—bringing salvation to believers and judgment to those who reject Him.

Then the Ekronites called together all the rulers of the Philistines
The Ekronites were one of the five major Philistine city-states, along with Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gaza, and Gath. The Philistines were a seafaring people who settled along the coastal regions of Canaan. The gathering of all the rulers indicates a significant crisis, as the Philistines were typically independent in their city governance. This unity among the rulers underscores the severity of the situation caused by the presence of the Ark of the Covenant.

and said, “Send away the ark of the God of Israel.
The Ark of the Covenant, representing the presence and power of Yahweh, had been captured by the Philistines in battle. However, instead of bringing them victory and blessing, it brought calamity. The Philistines recognized the Ark as belonging to the God of Israel, acknowledging His power even as they worshiped their own deities. This reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to demonstrate His power to those who do not worship Him.

It must return to its place,
The Philistines desired to send the Ark back to Israel, recognizing that it did not belong among them. This phrase highlights the concept of sacred space and the importance of the Ark's rightful place among God's people. The Ark was central to Israel's worship and covenant relationship with God, symbolizing His presence and guidance.

so that it will not kill us and our people!”
The Philistines were experiencing severe afflictions, which they attributed to the presence of the Ark. This fear of death and destruction reflects the biblical understanding of God's holiness and the consequences of His presence being mishandled or disrespected. The Philistines' plea to send the Ark away shows their desperation and acknowledgment of the divine power at work.

For a deadly confusion had pervaded the city;
The term "deadly confusion" suggests chaos and panic among the people of Ekron. This could refer to a plague or other calamity that caused widespread fear and disorder. The biblical narrative often associates such confusion with divine judgment, as seen in other instances where God intervenes directly in human affairs.

the hand of God was very heavy upon it.
The "hand of God" is a biblical metaphor for His power and judgment. The heaviness of God's hand indicates the severity of the affliction experienced by the Philistines. This phrase emphasizes God's active role in the events, demonstrating His authority and the consequences of opposing Him. It serves as a reminder of God's justice and the reality of His intervention in the world.

Those who did not die
This phrase indicates a severe judgment from God upon the Philistines, who had captured the Ark of the Covenant. The presence of the Ark brought calamity, demonstrating God's power and holiness. The Philistines, despite their initial victory, faced divine retribution. This reflects the biblical theme that God defends His honor and the sanctity of His presence, as seen in other instances where God's holiness is violated (e.g., Uzzah in 2 Samuel 6:7).

were afflicted with tumors
The affliction of tumors is a direct consequence of the Philistines' disrespect for the Ark. The Hebrew term used here can also be translated as "boils" or "swellings," suggesting a painful and humiliating condition. This punishment parallels the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 9:9-11), where God used physical afflictions to demonstrate His power and compel obedience. The tumors may symbolize the spiritual corruption and moral decay of the Philistines, contrasting with the purity required by God.

and the outcry of the city
The outcry signifies the collective distress and desperation of the Philistine people. In ancient Near Eastern culture, communal lamentation was a common response to disaster. This outcry echoes the cries of the Israelites in times of oppression (Exodus 2:23), highlighting a universal human response to suffering. It underscores the severity of God's judgment and the inability of the Philistines to escape His wrath.

went up to heaven
This phrase suggests that the cries of the Philistines reached God, indicating His awareness of human suffering, even among those who do not worship Him. It reflects the biblical principle that God is sovereign over all nations and attentive to the affairs of the world (Psalm 33:13-15). The imagery of cries reaching heaven is also seen in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:20-21), where God responds to the outcry against sin. This serves as a reminder of God's justice and the ultimate accountability of all people before Him.