What was Askelon?

Askelon (also spelled Ashkelon) was one of the five major Philistine city-states located along the southwestern coast of Canaan, near the Mediterranean Sea. The Hebrew name אַשְׁקְלוֹן (Ashqelōn) likely derives from a root meaning “to weigh” or “to scale,” possibly referring to trade or commerce, which the city was known for. In ancient times, Askelon was a fortified city with significant strategic, economic, and military importance.

In the biblical narrative, Askelon is first indirectly referenced in the conquest of Canaan and explicitly appears throughout the historical and prophetic books. In Joshua 13:3, Askelon is listed among the Philistine cities not yet conquered by Israel. By Joshua 24, although the land had been divided among the tribes, cities like Askelon remained under Philistine control. It is mentioned frequently in contexts of judgment and warfare involving the Philistines.

Biblical References and Cross-References

• Joshua 13:3 – Listed among the territories of the Philistines.

• Judges 1:18 – Judah is said to have taken Askelon, though the Philistines later regained control.

• Judges 14:19 – Samson struck down men in Askelon.

• 1 Samuel 6:17 – Listed among the Philistine cities offering golden tumors to the Lord.

• 2 Samuel 1:20 – David laments that the “daughters of the Philistines” in Askelon should not rejoice over Saul’s death.

• Jeremiah 47:5, Amos 1:8, Zephaniah 2:4, Zechariah 9:5 – Prophecies of destruction against Askelon.

These passages show Askelon as a recurring symbol of Philistine strength, pride, and eventual downfall under God‘s judgment.

Historical and Biblical Background

Askelon was a prominent port city and a center of Philistine culture and idolatry. During the conquest of Canaan, the Israelites were commanded to drive out the inhabitants of the land, but many coastal cities, including Askelon, remained under foreign control for much of Israel‘s early history. Although Judges 1:18 states that Judah took Askelon, this was likely temporary or partial, as the Philistines are still depicted as strongholds throughout the period of the Judges and Kings.

Samson’s vengeance in Judges 14:19 underscores the city’s role in the continuing conflict between Israel and the Philistines. Later prophetic writings describe Askelon’s destruction as part of God’s judgment against the nations, portraying its downfall as a sign of divine justice.

Meaning for Today’s Christians

Askelon represents the enduring struggle between God’s people and the corrupting influence of surrounding pagan nations. Though Israel was called to be set apart, they often failed to drive out those who opposed God’s commands, leading to cycles of compromise, oppression, and deliverance. For Christians today, Askelon serves as a reminder to avoid spiritual compromise and to recognize the dangers of conforming to the world rather than being transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).

Askelon also reflects the sovereignty of God over nations and cities. Though it was powerful and proud, it could not stand against the judgment of the Lord. Christians are reminded that worldly strength and success cannot protect against divine accountability.

How Askelon Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The story of Askelon ultimately points forward to the coming of Jesus Christ, who would destroy the spiritual strongholds represented by cities like Askelon. Just as God judged the Philistines for their pride and idolatry, so Christ came to conquer sin, death, and the powers of darkness.

In Zechariah 9:5, the fall of Askelon is declared alongside hope for Zion. In the very next verses (Zechariah 9:9), the prophecy shifts to the coming of the righteous King—Jesus—riding on a donkey. The contrast between the downfall of proud cities and the coming of the humble King illustrates the gospel: judgment for the wicked and salvation for those who repent and trust in God’s chosen Redeemer.

Jesus offers victory over sin in a way that no earthly power can. Cities like Askelon that once mocked or fought against God‘s people are reminders that no force can prevail against Christ‘s kingdom.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Judgment and Mercy

Askelon stands as a symbol of God‘s righteous judgment against persistent wickedness. Yet, the Bible also shows God‘s mercy, as He delays judgment and calls nations to repentance (Jeremiah 18:7-8).

2. Spiritual Warfare

The struggle between Israel and the Philistines, including battles involving Askelon, illustrates the spiritual warfare between God’s kingdom and the kingdom of darkness—a theme continued in the New Testament (Ephesians 6:12).

3. The Fall of the Proud

Askelon’s downfall, despite its wealth and power, reinforces a biblical theme: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).

4. The Coming Kingdom

The destruction of Askelon and the prophecy of a coming King in Zechariah 9 highlights the transition from earthly kingdoms to the eternal reign of Christ.

Reflection Questions

1. What does Askelon’s history teach us about the dangers of pride and idolatry?

2. Are there “strongholds” in your life that resemble Askelon—places of resistance to God’s rule?

3. How does the contrast between Askelon and Christ’s humble entry into Jerusalem challenge your understanding of power and victory?

4. In what ways can Christians remain spiritually distinct from a world that mirrors the Philistine culture of self-reliance and false worship?

5. How does the ultimate defeat of Askelon give you hope for the triumph of God’s justice and grace in a broken world?

Askelon’s story reminds us that no matter how fortified a city—or heart—may seem, God’s purposes will prevail. Through Christ, strongholds fall, and His kingdom stands forever.