Topical Encyclopedia Geographical and Historical Context:Ashdod, also known as Azotus in the New Testament, is one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, located in the coastal region of ancient Canaan, in what is now modern-day Israel. It is situated approximately midway between Gaza and Joppa (modern-day Jaffa), near the Mediterranean Sea. Ashdod's strategic location made it a significant center for trade and military activity throughout its history. Biblical References: Ashdod is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as a Philistine city. It is first noted in the context of the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, where it is listed as part of the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:47). However, the Israelites did not initially conquer it, and it remained under Philistine control for much of its early history. One of the most notable biblical events associated with Ashdod is the capture of the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines. After defeating the Israelites at the battle of Ebenezer, the Philistines brought the Ark to Ashdod and placed it in the temple of their god Dagon. The following morning, the statue of Dagon was found fallen and broken before the Ark, leading to a series of calamities that prompted the Philistines to return the Ark to Israel (1 Samuel 5:1-8). Ashdod is also mentioned in the context of the prophetic literature. The prophet Amos speaks against the city, highlighting its role in the transgressions of the Philistines (Amos 1:8). Similarly, the prophet Zephaniah includes Ashdod in his pronouncements of judgment against the Philistine cities (Zephaniah 2:4). New Testament Reference: In the New Testament, Ashdod is referred to as Azotus. It is mentioned in the account of Philip the Evangelist. After baptizing the Ethiopian eunuch, Philip is supernaturally transported to Azotus, where he continues to preach the gospel in all the towns until he reaches Caesarea (Acts 8:40). Archaeological and Cultural Significance: Archaeological excavations at Ashdod have revealed a rich history of occupation, with evidence of Philistine, Israelite, Assyrian, and later Hellenistic and Roman influences. The city's fortifications, temples, and artifacts provide insight into the cultural and religious practices of its inhabitants. Ashdod's significance in biblical history is underscored by its repeated mention in the context of Israel's interactions with the Philistines, as well as its role in the broader narrative of God's dealings with the nations surrounding Israel. The city's enduring presence in both the Old and New Testaments highlights its importance as a center of both conflict and evangelism. Smith's Bible Dictionary Ashdod or Azotus(a stronghold), (Acts 8:40) one of the five confederate cities of the Philistines situated about 30 miles from the southern frontier of Palestine, three from the Mediterranean Sea, and nearly midway between Gaza and Joppa. It was assigned to the tribe of Judah, (Joshua 15:47) but was never subdued by the Israelites. Its chief importance arose from its position on the high road from Palestine to Egypt. It is now an insignificant village, with no memorials of its ancient importance, but is still called Esdud. Greek 108. Azotos -- Azotus (ie Ashdod), a Philistine city ... a Philistine city. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: Azotos Phonetic Spelling: (ad'-zo-tos) Short Definition: Azotus, Ashdod Definition: Azotus ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/108.htm - 6k Library Philip the Evangelist Acts VIII Resources Who were the Anakim / Anakites? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Dagon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What were the emerods God afflicted the Philistines with in 1 Samuel 5? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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