Bible Study: Ashkelon - A Philistine Stronghold
Introduction:
Ashkelon (also spelled Askelon) was a prominent city of the Philistines, frequently mentioned in the Old Testament. This study will explore the biblical references to Ashkelon, examining its role in the narrative and its significance as a symbol of Philistine power and opposition to Israel.
I. Scriptural References to Ashkelon:
• Judges 1:18:
◦ "Judah also captured Gaza, Ekron, and Ashkelon."
◦ This verse indicates a period of Israelite conquest, though the Philistines later regained control of these cities.
• Judges 14:19:
◦ "Then the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him. He went down to Ashkelon, struck down thirty of their men, took their garments and gave them to those who had explained the riddle."
◦ This passage relates to Samson's conflict with the Philistines, where he traveled to Ashkelon to fulfill a wager. It shows Ashkelon as a philistine city of some size.
• 1 Samuel 6:17:
◦ "And these are the gold tumors the Philistines sent as a guilt offering to the Lord—one for Ashdod, one for Gaza, one for Ashkelon, one for Gath, and one for Ekron."
◦ This verse details the Philistine cities, including Ashkelon, that were affected by the plague associated with the Ark of the Covenant. This highlights Ashkelon's importance within the Philistine pentapolis.
• 2 Samuel 1:20:
◦ "Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Ashkelon, lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph."
◦ David's lament after the deaths of Saul and Jonathan reveals the potential for Philistine celebration and triumph over Israel. This shows that Ashkelon was a well known Philistine city.
• Jeremiah 25:20:
◦ "and all the mixed tribes, all the kings of the land of Uz, all the kings of the land of the Philistines (Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and what remains of Ashdod)."
◦ Jeremiah's prophecy includes Ashkelon among the nations that would drink the cup of God's wrath, demonstrating its place in the wider geopolitical context.
• Amos 1:8:
◦ "I will cut off the ruler of Ashdod and the one who holds the scepter in Ashkelon. I will turn my hand against Ekron, till the last of the Philistines perish,” says the Sovereign Lord."
◦ Amos pronounces judgment against Ashkelon and other Philistine cities for their transgressions.
• Zephaniah 2:4:
◦ "Gaza will be abandoned and Ashkelon left in ruins. They will drive out the people of Ashdod at midday, and Ekron will be uprooted."
◦ Zephaniah prophesies the destruction of Ashkelon, reflecting God's judgment against the Philistines.
• Zechariah 9:5:
◦ "Ashkelon will see it and fear; Gaza will writhe in agony, and Ekron too, for its hope will wither. Gaza’s king will perish, and Ashkelon will be deserted."
◦ Zechariah foretells Ashkelon's fear and desolation, continuing the prophetic theme of judgment.
• Jeremiah 47:5:
◦ “Gaza will shave her head in mourning; Ashkelon will be silent. O remnant of their power, how long will you cut yourselves?”
◦ This verse describes the mourning that will take place in Gaza and Ashkelon, a reaction to the Lords judgement.
II. Significance and Themes:
• Philistine Power: Ashkelon was a major Philistine city, representing their strength and opposition to Israel.
• Divine Judgment: The prophets repeatedly pronounce judgment against Ashkelon, highlighting God's justice and sovereignty over all nations.
• Symbol of Opposition: Ashkelon served as a symbol of the Philistines, a constant threat and adversary to Israel.
• Geopolitical Importance: Ashkelon's strategic location on the Mediterranean coast made it a significant city in the ancient Near East.
III. Application and Discussion:
• How does the history of Ashkelon reflect the recurring conflict between Israel and the Philistines?
• What does the prophetic judgment against Ashkelon reveal about God's character and justice?
• How does the prominence of Ashkelon in these biblical accounts contribute to our understanding of the historical context?
• How does the recurring theme of Gods judgement on nations, such as the philistines, effect our understanding of Gods soverignty?
• How can we apply lessons learned from the history of Ashkelon to our lives today?
- Preaching on God’s Wings – Protection, Care, and Salvation
- Preaching on The Tree of Life – God’s Plan for Eternity
- Preaching on Satan's Cunning: A Call to Vigilance
Conclusion:
Ashkelon, a powerful Philistine city, plays a significant role in the biblical narrative. Its frequent mention underscores the historical conflict between Israel and the Philistines, and the prophetic pronouncements against it highlight God's justice and sovereignty. Studying Ashkelon provides valuable insights into the historical and theological context of the Old Testament.
