Topical Encyclopedia Geographical and Historical Context: Ascalon, also known as Ashkelon, was one of the five major Philistine cities located on the coastal plain of southwestern Canaan, along the Mediterranean Sea. It was situated approximately 12 miles north of Gaza and 10 miles south of Ashdod. Ascalon was a significant maritime and trade center due to its strategic location, which facilitated interactions between Egypt, Canaan, and the broader Mediterranean region. Biblical References: Ascalon is mentioned in several passages of the Bible, primarily in the context of the Philistines, who were frequent adversaries of the Israelites. In Judges 1:18, the tribe of Judah is recorded as having captured Gaza, Ashkelon, and Ekron, although the Philistines later regained control. The city is also noted in the narrative of Samson, who went down to Ashkelon and struck down thirty men to settle a wager (Judges 14:19: "Then the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon, struck down thirty of their men, took their belongings, and gave their clothes to those who had explained the riddle. Burning with anger, he returned to his father’s house."). In the prophetic literature, Ascalon is frequently mentioned in the context of divine judgment against the Philistines. Zephaniah 2:4-7 prophesies the desolation of Philistine cities, including Ashkelon, as part of God's judgment: "For Gaza will be abandoned, and Ashkelon will lie in ruins. At midday Ashdod will be emptied, and Ekron will be uprooted" (Zephaniah 2:4). Similarly, Jeremiah 47:5-7 speaks of the impending doom upon Ashkelon: "Baldness has come upon Gaza; Ashkelon is silenced. O remnant of their valley, how long will you gash yourself?" (Jeremiah 47:5). Cultural and Religious Significance: Ascalon was a center of Philistine culture and religion, which often stood in stark contrast to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh by the Israelites. The Philistines were known for their worship of deities such as Dagon and Baal-Zebub, and Ascalon likely housed temples dedicated to these gods. The city's prominence in trade and military strength made it a formidable opponent to Israel during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. Archaeological Insights: Modern archaeological excavations at Ashkelon have uncovered significant findings that provide insight into its historical and cultural context. These include fortifications, artifacts, and inscriptions that attest to its role as a major Philistine city. The discoveries have helped to illuminate the daily life, trade practices, and religious customs of its inhabitants. Theological Implications: The biblical references to Ascalon highlight the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines, symbolizing the broader struggle between the worship of Yahweh and the pagan practices of surrounding nations. The prophetic declarations against Ascalon serve as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, emphasizing the consequences of idolatry and opposition to His chosen people. Conclusion: Ascalon remains a significant site in biblical history, representing both the challenges faced by the Israelites in their conquest of Canaan and the fulfillment of divine prophecy against the nations that opposed God's purposes. Its account is woven into the larger narrative of Israel's struggle to maintain faithfulness amidst external pressures and cultural influences. Smith's Bible Dictionary AscalonInternational Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASCALONas'-ka-lon (Askalon): In Apocrypha, both the King James Version and the Revised Version (British and American) (Judith 2:28; 1 Maccabees 10:86; 0.5; 12:33). See ASHKELON. Library Ascalon. Gerar. The Story of the Eighty Witches. A Great Slaughter About Ascalon. Vespasian Comes to Ptolemais. About the Time of Christ, in Accordance with Prophecy, the Rulers ... A Prince's Bride Writing iv. Nor Indeed is this Incapable of Proof, Neither is it a ... A Great Part of South Judea Cut Off under the Second Temple. ... The Further Adventures of Saint George. On the Road to Jerusalem The Adventures of Saint George of England. A New Pretender Thesaurus Ascalon... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASCALON. as'-ka-lon (Askalon): In Apocrypha, both the King James Version and the Revised Version ... /a/ascalon.htm - 6k Ashkelon (12 Occurrences) Ocina Garlic (1 Occurrence) Ebenezer (3 Occurrences) Eben-ezer (3 Occurrences) Migdal-gad (1 Occurrence) Migdalgad (1 Occurrence) Asbasareth Adoni-zedec (2 Occurrences) Resources Who was Philo of Alexandria? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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