1 Samuel 5:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 5:12
12 And the men that died not were smitten with the emerods: and the cry of the city went up to heaven.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 5 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, salvation, love. Written during the transition to monarchy (c. 1050-1010 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Israel transitioned from tribal confederacy to monarchy while facing Philistine military pressure.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Samuel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Samuel 5:12
12 And the men that died not were smitten with the emerods: and the cry of the city went up to heaven.
Analysis
The final verse captures universal suffering: 'the men that died not were smitten with the emerods: and the cry of the city went up to heaven.' The affliction is total - all are either dead or diseased. The 'cry...to heaven' echoes language used for Israel's suffering in Egypt (Exodus 2:23) and Sodom's sin (Genesis 18:21). Now pagans cry under God's heavy hand. The Ark that brought no salvation to faithless Israel brings destruction to presumptuous Philistia. Chapter 6 will show how they attempt to return it.
Historical Context
The phrase 'cry went up to heaven' uses language typically applied to appeals for divine attention. Here it describes Philistine suffering reaching the heavens - not to their deaf idol but filling the sky with lamentation. The universal scope of affliction prepares for the Ark's return.
Reflection
- How does the image of Philistine cries reaching heaven complete the narrative?
- What has the Ark's captivity accomplished for God's purposes?
Word Studies
- Heaven: שָׁמַיִם (Shamayim) H8064 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 12:30, Amos 5:19