Eshkalon, often referred to as Ashkelon in various biblical translations, is one of the five major Philistine cities mentioned in the Old Testament. It is located along the Mediterranean coast, approximately 12 miles north of Gaza. The city holds significant historical and biblical importance due to its strategic location and its role in the narratives involving the Israelites and the Philistines.

Biblical References:

1. Judges 1:18 · "And Judah also captured Gaza, Ashkelon, and Ekron—each with its territory." This verse highlights the initial conquest of the city by the tribe of Judah during the period of the Judges. However, the Philistines later regained control, indicating the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and the Philistines for dominance in the region.

2. 1 Samuel 6:17 · "As a guilt offering to the LORD, the Philistines sent back one gold tumor for each city: Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron." This passage is part of the narrative concerning the return of the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines. Ashkelon is listed as one of the cities that suffered divine retribution, demonstrating its significance among the Philistine pentapolis.

3. Jeremiah 47:5 · "Baldness has come upon Gaza; Ashkelon is silenced. O remnant of their valley, how long will you gash yourself?" The prophet Jeremiah prophesies the destruction and mourning that will come upon Ashkelon, reflecting the city's vulnerability to divine judgment and foreign invasion.

4. Zephaniah 2:4 · "For Gaza will be abandoned, and Ashkelon will lie in ruins. At midday Ashdod will be deserted, and Ekron will be uprooted." This prophecy by Zephaniah foretells the desolation that will befall Ashkelon, emphasizing the transient nature of its power and the ultimate sovereignty of God over the nations.

Historical and Archaeological Context:

Eshkalon was a prominent city in the ancient Near East, known for its fortifications, trade, and cultural exchanges. Archaeological excavations have revealed a wealth of artifacts, including inscriptions, pottery, and architectural remains, which provide insight into the city's prosperity and its interactions with neighboring cultures.

The city's economy was bolstered by its access to maritime trade routes, and it was renowned for its production of wine and olive oil. The Philistines, known for their advanced metallurgy and distinctive pottery, left a lasting cultural imprint on the region.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, Eshkalon serves as a testament to the recurring theme of divine judgment and redemption found throughout the Bible. The city's rise and fall illustrate the consequences of idolatry and opposition to God's chosen people. The prophetic declarations against Ashkelon underscore the belief in God's ultimate authority over all nations and His ability to bring about His purposes through historical events.

Eshkalon's narrative also reflects the broader conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines, symbolizing the struggle between the forces of God's covenant people and the pagan nations surrounding them. This ongoing conflict serves as a backdrop for many of the biblical accounts that highlight God's deliverance and faithfulness to Israel.Eshkalon

same as Askelon

Eshkalon (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Eshkalon (1 Occurrence). Joshua 13:3 From Sihor,
which is before Egypt, even unto the borders of Ekron ...
/e/eshkalon.htm - 6k

Gazah (16 Occurrences)
... far as the borders of Ekron northward, and which is counted to the Canaanite; five
lordships of the Philistines: of Gazah, and of Ashdod, of Eshkalon, of Gath ...
/g/gazah.htm - 11k

Floweth (16 Occurrences)
... far as the borders of Ekron northward, and which is counted to the Canaanite; five
lordships of the Philistines: of Gazah, and of Ashdod, of Eshkalon, of Gath ...
/f/floweth.htm - 11k

Eshek (1 Occurrence)

/e/eshek.htm - 6k

Eshkalonite (1 Occurrence)

/e/eshkalonite.htm - 7k

Avvite (1 Occurrence)
... far as the borders of Ekron northward, and which is counted to the Canaanite; five
lordships of the Philistines: of Gazah, and of Ashdod, of Eshkalon, of Gath ...
/a/avvite.htm - 6k

Ashkelon (12 Occurrences)
... ASHKELON. ask'-ke-lon, esh'-ka-lon, as'-ke-lon (the King James Version Eshkalon,
(Eshkalonites; Joshua 13:3); Askelon, (Judges 1:18 1 Samuel 6:17 2 Samuel 1:20 ...
/a/ashkelon.htm - 13k

Avvites (3 Occurrences)
... far as the borders of Ekron northward, and which is counted to the Canaanite; five
lordships of the Philistines: of Gazah, and of Ashdod, of Eshkalon, of Gath ...
/a/avvites.htm - 7k

Gath (44 Occurrences)
... far as the borders of Ekron northward, and which is counted to the Canaanite; five
lordships of the Philistines: of Gazah, and of Ashdod, of Eshkalon, of Gath ...
/g/gath.htm - 26k

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