Topical Bible: Gaza: Also Called Azzah: Prophecies Relating To

◄ Gaza: Also Called Azzah: Prophecies Relating To ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Gaza, known in ancient times as Azzah, is a significant city located in the southwestern part of the land of the Philistines, near the Mediterranean coast. It is one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, alongside Ashdod, Ashkelon, Ekron, and Gath. Throughout biblical history, Gaza has been a focal point of conflict and prophecy, often symbolizing the tension between the Israelites and their neighboring adversaries.

Historical Context

Gaza's strategic location made it a vital trade and military hub in the ancient Near East. It is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as a city of the Philistines, who were persistent foes of Israel. The city is first mentioned in the context of the conquests of Joshua, who captured it along with its surrounding territories (Joshua 10:41, 11:22). Despite these victories, the Israelites did not maintain control over Gaza, and it remained a Philistine stronghold.

Prophecies Relating to Gaza

Several biblical prophecies address Gaza, often in the context of divine judgment against the Philistines for their hostility towards Israel. These prophecies highlight the city's impending destruction and serve as a testament to God's sovereignty and justice.

1. Amos 1:6-7 : "This is what the LORD says: 'For three transgressions of Gaza, even four, I will not revoke My judgment, because they exiled a whole population, delivering them up to Edom. So I will send fire upon the walls of Gaza, to consume its citadels.'" The prophet Amos condemns Gaza for its role in the slave trade, capturing entire communities and selling them to Edom. The prophecy foretells a fiery judgment upon the city, emphasizing the seriousness of their transgressions.

2. Zephaniah 2:4 : "For Gaza will be abandoned, and Ashkelon will lie in ruins. At midday Ashdod will be uprooted, and Ekron will be uprooted." Zephaniah's prophecy speaks of the desolation that will befall Gaza and its neighboring cities. This prediction underscores the comprehensive nature of divine judgment against the Philistine cities.

3. Jeremiah 47:1-5 : "This is the word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet concerning the Philistines before Pharaoh attacked Gaza: 'This is what the LORD says: Behold, waters are rising from the north and will become an overflowing torrent. They will overflow the land and everything in it, the cities and those who dwell in them. The people will cry out, and all who dwell in the land will wail at the sound of the hooves of galloping steeds, the rumbling of chariots, and the clatter of their wheels. Fathers will not turn back for their children; their hands will hang limp. For the day has come to destroy all the Philistines, to cut off from Tyre and Sidon every remaining ally. Indeed, the LORD is about to destroy the Philistines, the remnant from the coasts of Caphtor. Baldness has come upon Gaza; Ashkelon is silenced. O remnant of their valley, how long will you gash yourself?'" Jeremiah's prophecy, delivered before an Egyptian attack on Gaza, portrays a vivid picture of impending doom. The imagery of rising waters and the chaos of battle convey the totality of the destruction that awaits the Philistines.

4. Zechariah 9:5 : "Ashkelon will see it and fear; Gaza will writhe in agony, and Ekron too, for her hope will wither. The king will perish from Gaza, and Ashkelon will be uninhabited." Zechariah prophesies the downfall of Gaza's leadership and the city's subsequent desolation. This prophecy reflects the broader theme of divine retribution against those who oppose God's people.

Significance in Biblical Narrative

The prophecies concerning Gaza serve as a reminder of the consequences of enmity against God's chosen people. They illustrate the broader biblical theme of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's word through the rise and fall of nations. Gaza's fate, as foretold by the prophets, underscores the transient nature of earthly power and the enduring sovereignty of the Lord.

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Amos 1:6,7
Thus said the LORD; For three transgressions of Gaza, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because they carried away captive the whole captivity, to deliver them up to Edom:
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Zephaniah 2:4
For Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ashkelon a desolation: they shall drive out Ashdod at the noon day, and Ekron shall be rooted up.
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Zechariah 9:5
Ashkelon shall see it, and fear; Gaza also shall see it, and be very sorrowful, and Ekron; for her expectation shall be ashamed; and the king shall perish from Gaza, and Ashkelon shall not be inhabited.
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