Ashkelon: Emerods (Tumors, RV) of
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Ashkelon, one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, holds a significant place in biblical history. Located along the Mediterranean coast, it was a prominent center of trade and culture in ancient times. The city is mentioned in several biblical narratives, most notably in the context of the Ark of the Covenant and the plagues that befell the Philistines.

The account of the emerods, or tumors, is found in the narrative of 1 Samuel 5-6. After the Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant from the Israelites, they brought it to Ashkelon, among other cities, as a trophy of their victory. However, the presence of the Ark brought about divine retribution. The Berean Standard Bible describes the affliction that struck the Philistines: "The hand of the LORD was heavy upon the people of Ashkelon, and He brought devastation upon them and afflicted them with tumors" (1 Samuel 5:6).

The term "emerods" is an archaic word used in the King James Version, often understood to mean tumors or swellings. The Revised Version (RV) and other modern translations clarify this as "tumors," which were part of a series of plagues that included a severe infestation of mice, as indicated in 1 Samuel 6:4-5. These afflictions were interpreted as a direct judgment from God, demonstrating His power and sovereignty over the Philistine deities and their people.

The Philistines, recognizing the severity of their plight, sought to appease the God of Israel. They decided to return the Ark to the Israelites, accompanied by a guilt offering of golden tumors and golden mice, symbolizing the plagues that had struck them. This act of restitution is detailed in 1 Samuel 6:5 : "Make images of your tumors and of the rats that are destroying the land. Give glory to the God of Israel. Perhaps He will lighten His hand from upon you, your gods, and your land."

The narrative of the emerods in Ashkelon serves as a powerful reminder of the holiness of God and the consequences of disregarding His presence. It underscores the belief in divine justice and the importance of reverence toward the sacred. The events in Ashkelon illustrate the broader biblical theme of God's supremacy over all nations and His ability to use even the enemies of His people to demonstrate His glory and power.

In summary, the account of the emerods in Ashkelon is a testament to the might and holiness of the God of Israel. It highlights the futility of opposing His will and the necessity of acknowledging His authority. The story remains a poignant example of divine intervention and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes in the world.
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1 Samuel 6:17
And these are the golden tumors which the Philistines returned for a trespass offering to the LORD; for Ashdod one, for Gaza one, for Askelon one, for Gath one, for Ekron one;
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Resources
Who were the Philistines? | GotQuestions.org

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Ashkelon: Captured by the People of Judah
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