1 Samuel 5:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 5:9
9 And it was so, that, after they had carried it about, the hand of the LORD was against the city with a very great destruction: and he smote the men of the city, both small and great, and they had emerods in their secret parts.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 5 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, redemption, wisdom. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 5:9
9 And it was so, that, after they had carried it about, the hand of the LORD was against the city with a very great destruction: and he smote the men of the city, both small and great, and they had emerods in their secret parts.
Analysis
Gath fares no better: 'the hand of the LORD was against the city with a very great destruction.' The affliction now includes 'small and great' - no social class escapes. The 'emerods in their secret parts' (more literally, 'tumors broke out on them') spreads through the entire population. Each Philistine city that receives the Ark experiences intensified judgment. God demonstrates His power systematically throughout Philistine territory. The Ark cannot be contained or controlled by pagan strategies.
Historical Context
Gath's experience parallels Ashdod's, confirming that the affliction was connected to the Ark's presence, not local conditions. The inclusion of all social classes demonstrates comprehensive judgment. Gath was a significant Philistine city, later becoming David's refuge (1 Samuel 27:1-4).
Reflection
- What does the spreading affliction demonstrate about Yahweh's power beyond Israel's borders?
- How does God's systematic judgment counter Philistine attempts to manage the Ark?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 5:6, 7:13, 12:15, Deuteronomy 2:15
- Parallel theme: Psalms 78:66