The Esh'taolites were inhabitants of the ancient town of Eshtaol, located in the Shephelah region of Judah. Eshtaol is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of the tribe of Dan and the narratives surrounding Samson. The town's name is derived from the Hebrew root "sha'al," meaning "to ask" or "to inquire," which may suggest a place of seeking or inquiry.

Biblical References:

1. Tribal Allocation: Eshtaol is first mentioned in the Book of Joshua as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Dan. Joshua 19:41 states, "The territory of their inheritance included Zorah, Eshtaol, Ir-shemesh." This allocation places Eshtaol within the geographical boundaries assigned to Dan, although the tribe struggled to fully possess their allotted territory due to the presence of the Amorites and other Canaanite peoples.

2. Samson's Early Life: Eshtaol is notably linked to the early life of Samson, one of the most famous judges of Israel. Judges 13:25 records, "And the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him while he was in Mahaneh-dan, between Zorah and Eshtaol." This indicates that Samson's divine calling and empowerment by the Spirit of the LORD began in this region, marking Eshtaol as a significant location in the narrative of his life.

3. Samson's Burial: After Samson's death, his body was brought back to the area near Eshtaol for burial. Judges 16:31 notes, "Then his brothers and his father’s whole family went down, carried him back, and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of his father Manoah." This burial site underscores the familial and tribal connections to Eshtaol, as well as its importance as a place of heritage and memory for Samson's family.

4. Danite Migration: The Book of Judges also recounts the migration of the Danites from their original territory, including Eshtaol, to the northern part of Israel. Judges 18:2 describes, "So the Danites sent out five of their leading men from Zorah and Eshtaol to spy out the land and explore it." This expedition eventually led to the conquest of Laish and the establishment of a new Danite settlement, highlighting the strategic and transitional role of Eshtaol in the tribe's history.

Archaeological and Historical Context:

Eshtaol's location in the Shephelah, a region of low hills between the coastal plain and the Judean mountains, made it a site of agricultural and strategic significance. Archaeological excavations in the area have uncovered evidence of ancient settlement, including fortifications and domestic structures, which align with its biblical portrayal as a settled and contested area.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, Eshtaol serves as a backdrop for the divine activity in the life of Samson, illustrating themes of calling, empowerment, and the struggle between Israel and its neighbors. The Spirit of the LORD stirring Samson in Eshtaol signifies God's intervention and presence in the midst of Israel's challenges. Additionally, the Danite migration narrative reflects the broader biblical theme of seeking God's promise and the fulfillment of His covenant, even amidst human failure and conflict.

In summary, the Esh'taolites, as residents of Eshtaol, are woven into the fabric of Israel's tribal history and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the judges, particularly in the life and legacy of Samson.Esh'taolites (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 2:53
And the families of Kiriath-jearim: the Ithrites, and the Puthites, and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zorathites, and the Eshtaolites.
(See RSV)

Esh'taolites (1 Occurrence)
Esh'taolites. Eshtaolites, Esh'taolites. Eshtarah . Multi-Version
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Eshtaolites (1 Occurrence)

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Eshtarah (1 Occurrence)

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