Overview:
Gazer, also known as Gezer, is an ancient city of significant historical and biblical importance located in the Shephelah region of ancient Israel. It is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament and played a crucial role in the history of the Israelites. The city is identified with the modern archaeological site of Tel Gezer.

Biblical References:
Gazer is first mentioned in the Bible in the context of the conquest of Canaan. In Joshua 10:33 , it is recorded: "Then Horam king of Gezer went up to help Lachish, but Joshua struck him down along with his people, leaving no survivors." This indicates that Gezer was initially a Canaanite city that opposed the Israelites during their conquest of the Promised Land.

In Joshua 16:10 , the text notes the incomplete conquest of the land: "But they did not drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer; to this day the Canaanites live among the Ephraimites but are forced into labor." This passage highlights the continued presence of Canaanites in Gezer, despite its allocation to the tribe of Ephraim.

Gezer is also mentioned in the context of King Solomon's reign. In 1 Kings 9:15-17 , it is recorded that Pharaoh, king of Egypt, captured Gezer, burned it, and gave it as a dowry to his daughter, Solomon's wife. Solomon then rebuilt the city: "This is the account of the forced labor that King Solomon conscripted to build the house of the LORD, his own palace, the supporting terraces, the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer."

Historical and Archaeological Significance:
Gezer was strategically located on the Via Maris, an ancient trade route connecting Egypt and Mesopotamia, making it a site of military and economic importance. Archaeological excavations at Tel Gezer have uncovered significant remains, including fortifications, water systems, and a Canaanite high place, providing insight into the city's history and culture.

The city is also noted for the Gezer Calendar, an ancient Hebrew inscription that is one of the earliest examples of Hebrew writing. This artifact provides valuable information about the agricultural practices and calendar system of ancient Israel.

Theological Implications:
The biblical narrative of Gezer underscores themes of divine promise and human responsibility. The incomplete conquest of Gezer by the Israelites serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of faithfulness to God's commands. The city's later integration into the Israelite kingdom under Solomon reflects the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of a united monarchy.

Gezer's history illustrates the complex interactions between the Israelites and surrounding nations, highlighting the challenges of maintaining faith and identity amidst external influences. The city's role in biblical history serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through the people of Israel.2 Samuel 5:25
And David did so, as the LORD had commanded him; and smote the Philistines from Geba until you come to Gazer.
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1 Chronicles 14:16
David therefore did as God commanded him: and they smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gazer.
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