Gaza is one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, frequently mentioned in the Old Testament. It is located in the southwestern part of ancient Canaan, near the Mediterranean coast. Gaza's strategic position made it a significant city in biblical history, serving as a key trade and military hub.

In the Bible, Gaza is first mentioned in the context of the conquests of Joshua. Although the Israelites were commanded to conquer the land, they did not fully drive out the inhabitants of Gaza (Joshua 13:3). The city remained under Philistine control and was a constant source of conflict for Israel.

One of the most notable biblical figures associated with Gaza is Samson. In Judges 16, Samson visits Gaza, where he famously carries away the city gates after being ambushed by the Philistines. Later, he is captured and imprisoned in Gaza, where he ultimately brings down the temple of Dagon, killing many Philistines in his final act of strength (Judges 16:21-30).

The prophets also spoke against Gaza. Amos prophesied judgment against the city for its transgressions, particularly for taking entire communities captive and selling them to Edom (Amos 1:6-7). Similarly, Zephaniah foretold the desolation of Gaza as part of God's judgment on the Philistine cities (Zephaniah 2:4).

Ashkelon

Ashkelon is another of the five major Philistine cities, located along the Mediterranean coast, north of Gaza. It was an important seaport and trade center in ancient times, known for its fortifications and cultural significance.

In the biblical narrative, Ashkelon is mentioned in the context of the Philistine territory that the Israelites were unable to fully conquer (Joshua 13:3). Like Gaza, Ashkelon remained a Philistine stronghold and was often in conflict with Israel.

Samson's exploits also extend to Ashkelon. In Judges 14:19, after solving a riddle at his wedding feast, Samson goes down to Ashkelon, where he kills thirty men and takes their garments to pay off his wager. This act further fueled the animosity between Samson and the Philistines.

The prophets pronounced judgment on Ashkelon as well. Jeremiah prophesied that Ashkelon would be cut off and that its people would be silenced (Jeremiah 47:5). Zephaniah also included Ashkelon in his pronouncement of desolation upon the Philistine cities (Zephaniah 2:4).

Ekron

Ekron is one of the five cities of the Philistine pentapolis, situated inland from the Mediterranean coast. It is mentioned frequently in the Old Testament as a center of Philistine power and idolatry.

The city of Ekron is first noted in the allotment of land to the tribe of Judah, although it remained under Philistine control (Joshua 15:11, 45-46). Ekron is perhaps best known for its association with the Ark of the Covenant. After the Philistines captured the Ark from Israel, it was brought to Ekron, where it caused great distress and plagues among the people (1 Samuel 5:10-12).

Ekron was also a center of idol worship, particularly of the god Baal-Zebub. In 2 Kings 1:2-3, King Ahaziah of Israel sent messengers to inquire of Baal-Zebub, the god of Ekron, regarding his recovery from an injury, an act that was condemned by the prophet Elijah.

The prophets foretold the downfall of Ekron as part of God's judgment on the Philistines. Amos declared that Ekron would be cut off (Amos 1:8), and Zephaniah included Ekron in his prophecy of desolation (Zephaniah 2:4). Zechariah also prophesied that Ekron would be like a Jebusite, indicating its eventual subjugation (Zechariah 9:7).