Overview:
Ashdod is one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, located in the southwestern part of ancient Canaan, near the Mediterranean coast. It is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as a significant Philistine city and a center of idolatry, particularly associated with the worship of the god Dagon.

Biblical References:
Ashdod is first mentioned in the context of the Philistine cities in Joshua 13:3, where it is listed among the territories that remained to be conquered by the Israelites: "from the Shihor east of Egypt to the border of Ekron in the north, all of it counted as Canaanite; the five rulers of the Philistines in Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron."

In 1 Samuel 5, Ashdod is notably the location where the Philistines brought the captured Ark of the Covenant after defeating the Israelites. The Ark was placed in the temple of Dagon, leading to a series of divine judgments against the city. The statue of Dagon fell before the Ark, and the people of Ashdod were afflicted with tumors: "When the people of Ashdod rose early the next day, there was Dagon, fallen on his face on the ground before the ark of the LORD" (1 Samuel 5:3).

The prophet Isaiah also prophesied against Ashdod, foretelling its downfall as part of God's judgment against the Philistines: "In the year that the supreme commander, sent by Sargon king of Assyria, came to Ashdod and attacked and captured it" (Isaiah 20:1).

Historical and Archaeological Context:
Ashdod was a significant port city and a center of trade and military power in the ancient Near East. Its strategic location made it a target for various empires, including the Assyrians, Egyptians, and Babylonians. The city was known for its strong fortifications and was often involved in conflicts with neighboring states.

Archaeological excavations at Ashdod have revealed layers of occupation dating back to the Bronze Age. The site has yielded artifacts that provide insight into the Philistine culture, including pottery, inscriptions, and remnants of the city's fortifications.

Religious Significance:
Ashdod's religious significance in the Bible is primarily linked to its association with the worship of Dagon, a deity of the Philistines. The events surrounding the Ark of the Covenant in Ashdod highlight the power of the God of Israel over the gods of the Philistines, demonstrating His supremacy and the futility of idolatry.

Prophetic Significance:
The prophets frequently included Ashdod in their oracles against the nations, symbolizing the broader judgment against the Philistines and their opposition to God's people. Zechariah 9:6 prophesies the removal of pride from Philistia, including Ashdod: "A mixed race will occupy Ashdod, and I will cut off the pride of the Philistines."

Cultural Influence:
As a major Philistine city, Ashdod played a crucial role in the cultural and political landscape of the region. Its interactions with Israel, both in conflict and in prophecy, reflect the broader narrative of the struggle between the Israelites and the surrounding nations.

Modern Relevance:
Today, Ashdod is a modern city in Israel, continuing to serve as an important port and commercial center. Its ancient history and biblical significance remain a point of interest for scholars, archaeologists, and those interested in biblical history.Ashdod's (1 Occurrence)

Zephaniah 2:4
For Gaza is forsaken, And Ashkelon 'is' for a desolation, Ashdod! at noon they do cast her forth, And Ekron is rooted up.
(See RSV)

Ashdod's (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Ashdod's (1 Occurrence). Zephaniah 2:4 For Gaza
is forsaken, And Ashkelon 'is' for a desolation, Ashdod! ...
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Ashdoditish (1 Occurrence)

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Ashdoth

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