Topical Encyclopedia Gaza, a city often associated with the Philistines, holds a significant place in biblical history. It is one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, frequently mentioned in the context of Israel's interactions with these ancient adversaries. However, it is important to note that Gaza is not traditionally associated with the tribe of Ephraim. Instead, it is located in the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah, as described in the Book of Joshua.Geographical and Historical Context Gaza is situated in the southwestern part of the land of Canaan, near the Mediterranean coast. Its strategic location made it a vital trade and military hub in ancient times. The city is first mentioned in the Bible in the context of the conquests of Joshua. In Joshua 10:41 , it is recorded that Joshua conquered the land "from Kadesh-barnea to Gaza and all the country of Goshen as far as Gibeon." Despite its conquest, Gaza remained a stronghold of the Philistines, a seafaring people known for their conflicts with the Israelites. The Philistines' control over Gaza is evident in the narrative of Samson, one of the judges of Israel. In Judges 16:1 , it is noted, "One day Samson went to Gaza, where he saw a prostitute and went in to spend the night with her." This account highlights the ongoing tension and interaction between the Israelites and the Philistines. Gaza in the Time of the Judges and Kings The account of Samson is perhaps the most famous biblical account involving Gaza. Samson's exploits against the Philistines, including his final act of strength in the temple of Dagon, underscore the city's importance as a Philistine center. Judges 16:21 recounts, "Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes, and took him down to Gaza, binding him with bronze shackles. He was forced to grind grain in the prison." During the period of the united monarchy under Saul, David, and Solomon, the Philistines, including those in Gaza, continued to be a thorn in Israel's side. David's military campaigns against the Philistines are well-documented, though specific references to Gaza during his reign are limited. Prophetic References and Later History The prophets also mention Gaza in their oracles against the nations. In Amos 1:6-7 , the Lord pronounces judgment on Gaza: "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." Similarly, Zephaniah 2:4 prophesies, "For Gaza will be abandoned, and Ashkelon will lie in ruins. At midday Ashdod will be deserted, and Ekron will be uprooted." These prophetic declarations highlight the city's continued significance and the divine judgment pronounced upon it due to its actions against Israel. New Testament and Beyond In the New Testament, Gaza is mentioned in the account of Philip the Evangelist. Acts 8:26 records, "Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, 'Get up and go south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.' (This is a desert road.)" This passage marks Gaza as a point of reference in the spread of the Gospel, illustrating its continued existence and relevance in the biblical narrative. Throughout history, Gaza has remained a city of strategic and cultural importance, enduring through various empires and civilizations. Its biblical legacy, particularly in relation to the Philistines and the Israelites, continues to be a subject of study and reflection for scholars and believers alike. Nave's Topical Index Judges 6:4And they encamped against them, and destroyed the increase of the earth, till you come to Gaza, and left no sustenance for Israel, neither sheep, nor ox, nor ass. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 7:28 Library How, after the Death of Joshua their Commander, the Israelites ... How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The Canaan From the Talmud and Hebraica Israel in Canaan. In Judaea The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. ) The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... Letter cviii. To Eustochium. Resources Who was Delilah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was the Ethiopian eunuch? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about household salvation? | GotQuestions.org Gaza: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gaza: A City of the Tribe of Ephraim Gaza: Also Called Azzah: A City of the Avim and Anakim Gaza: Also Called Azzah: A City of the Philistines Gaza: Also Called Azzah: A Temple of Dagon, Situated At Gaza: Also Called Azzah: Allotted to Judah Gaza: Also Called Azzah: Desert of Gaza: Also Called Azzah: On the Western Boundary of the Kingdom of Israel in the Time of Solomon Gaza: Also Called Azzah: One of the Border Cities of the Canaanites Gaza: Also Called Azzah: Prophecies Relating To Gaza: Also Called Azzah: Samson Dies At Gaza: Also Called Azzah: Struck by Pharaoh Related Terms |
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