The term "Ashkelonite" refers to the inhabitants of Ashkelon, one of the five major cities of the Philistines, located on the southwestern coast of ancient Canaan. Ashkelon was a significant urban center during the biblical period, known for its strategic location and its role in trade and military activities. The city is frequently mentioned in the context of the Philistine pentapolis, which also included Gaza, Ashdod, Ekron, and Gath.

Biblical References

While the term "Ashkelonite" itself is not explicitly used in the Bible, the city of Ashkelon and its people are referenced in several passages. In Judges 14:19, the Spirit of the Lord comes upon Samson, and he goes down to Ashkelon, where he strikes down thirty men, takes their belongings, and gives their clothes to those who had explained his riddle. This event highlights the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines, of which the Ashkelonites were a part.

In 1 Samuel 6:17, Ashkelon is listed among the cities that sent a guilt offering to the Lord after the Philistines returned the Ark of the Covenant to Israel. This passage underscores the religious and cultural tensions between the Philistines and the Israelites.

Historical and Cultural Context

Ashkelon was a prominent city in the ancient Near East, with a history that predates the arrival of the Philistines. It was known for its fortifications, harbor, and as a center of commerce. The Philistines, believed to have been of Aegean origin, settled in the region around the 12th century BC and established Ashkelon as one of their principal cities.

The Ashkelonites, as part of the Philistine confederation, were often in conflict with the Israelites. The Philistines are depicted in the Bible as adversaries of Israel, and their cities, including Ashkelon, were targets of Israelite campaigns. The animosity between the two groups is a recurring theme in the historical books of the Old Testament.

Prophetic Literature

The prophets also mention Ashkelon in their oracles against the nations. In Jeremiah 47:5, the prophet laments the fate of Ashkelon, saying, "Baldness has come upon Gaza; Ashkelon is silenced. O remnant of their valley, how long will you gash yourself?" This prophecy foretells the destruction that would come upon the Philistine cities, including Ashkelon, as a result of divine judgment.

Similarly, in Zephaniah 2:4, the prophet declares, "For Gaza will be abandoned, and Ashkelon will lie in ruins. At midday Ashdod will be emptied, and Ekron uprooted." These prophecies reflect the broader theme of divine retribution against the enemies of Israel.

Archaeological Insights

Modern archaeological excavations at Ashkelon have provided valuable insights into the city's history and the life of its inhabitants. The site has revealed layers of occupation, including Philistine artifacts, which corroborate the biblical narrative of a thriving and influential city. The discoveries include fortifications, residential areas, and evidence of trade with other cultures, underscoring Ashkelon's role as a significant urban center in the ancient world.

In summary, the Ashkelonites, as part of the Philistine confederation, played a crucial role in the biblical narrative, representing both a formidable enemy and a testament to the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors. The city of Ashkelon, with its rich history and archaeological significance, continues to be a focal point for understanding the ancient Near East and the biblical world.832. Eshqeloni -- inhab. of Ashkelon
... inhab. of Ashkelon. Transliteration: Eshqeloni Phonetic Spelling: (esh-kel-o-nee')
Short Definition: Ashkelonite. ... of Ashkelon NASB Word Usage Ashkelonite (1). ...
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Jacob Predicted Two Advents of Christ.
... For though you affirm that Herod, after [2115] whose [reign] He suffered, was an
Ashkelonite, nevertheless you admit that there was a high priest in your nation ...
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Ashkelonite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Ashkelonite (1 Occurrence). Joshua 13:3 from the
Shihor, which is before Egypt, even to the border of Ekron ...
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Ash'kelon (10 Occurrences)
Ash'kelon. Ashkelon, Ash'kelon. Ashkelonite . Multi-Version Concordance ... (See
RSV). Ashkelon, Ash'kelon. Ashkelonite . Reference Bible.
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Ashkelonites (1 Occurrence)

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