What was Eshkalonites?
The Eshkalonites (Hebrew: אֶשְׁקְלוֹנִי – Eshqeloni, meaning “a man of Ashkelon“) were the inhabitants of the Philistine city of Ashkelon, one of the five major Philistine cities on the southern coast of Canaan. They are briefly mentioned in Joshua 13:3, where the Lord lists nations yet to be conquered as part of Israel’s inheritance. The Eshkalonites were part of the larger Philistine population that remained unconquered during Joshua‘s military campaigns.
Ashkelon itself was an important city in ancient times, known for its fortifications, commerce, and involvement in regional conflicts. The Eshkalonites, as Philistines, were long-standing enemies of Israel and represented pagan opposition to God’s covenant people.
Biblical Reference:
“from the Shihor River on the east of Egypt to the territory of Ekron on the north, all of it counted as Canaanite territory of the five Philistine rulers in Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath and Ekron—that of the Avvites“ (Joshua 13:3, NIV)
Biblical Background and Cross References
The Eshkalonites are included in the context of Joshua 13, a chapter that outlines the remaining land yet to be possessed by the Israelites. Although Joshua had led numerous victorious battles, much of the land, including the territories of the Philistines, remained outside Israelite control. The Lord instructed Joshua to apportion the land among the tribes, even those not yet subdued, including the territory of Ashkelon and its inhabitants.
Cross References:
- Judges 1:18 – “Judah also took Gaza, Ashkelon and Ekron—each city with its territory.”
- 1 Samuel 6:17 – Describes the Philistine rulers of the five cities, including Ashkelon.
- Zechariah 9:5 – Prophesies the future judgment of Ashkelon and other Philistine cities.
- Amos 1:8 – “I will destroy the king who is in Ashdod and the one who holds the scepter in Ashkelon.”
Historical and Geographical Context
Ashkelon was a strategic city located along the Mediterranean coast, about midway between Gaza and Ashdod. Its coastal location made it an essential hub for trade and warfare. It was heavily fortified with defensive walls, and archaeological findings confirm its wealth and cultural significance.
The Philistines, possibly of Aegean origin (linked to the “Sea Peoples”), settled in the southwestern region of Canaan. They were militarily sophisticated, known for their use of iron weapons, and often clashed with the Israelites during the period of the Judges and early monarchy.
Ashkelon, along with Gaza, Ashdod, Ekron, and Gath, made up the confederation of Philistine city-states. These cities each had their own ruler but often worked together, especially in opposition to Israel.
Significance for Today’s Christians
The mention of the Eshkalonites in Joshua 13 serves as a reminder that full obedience to God’s commands requires faith and perseverance. While Joshua and the Israelites had achieved significant victories, they left portions of the Promised Land unconquered, which would later result in repeated conflict and spiritual compromise.
For Christians today, the Eshkalonites represent the “strongholds” in life that are not yet surrendered to Christ. Like Israel, believers are called not only to enjoy initial victories but also to press on in sanctification—conquering every area of life through obedience to God’s Word.
Furthermore, the continued presence of the Philistines became a source of trouble for Israel. This is a sober warning that unchecked sin or spiritual complacency can grow into future opposition to God’s work.
How Their Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel
Though the Eshkalonites were enemies of God’s people, the gospel reveals that Jesus came not only to save Israel but to break down the wall of hostility between Jew and Gentile (Ephesians 2:14-16). In Christ, those who were once far off—like the Philistines—can be brought near through the blood of Jesus.
The judgment upon Ashkelon and the Philistine cities (Zechariah 9:5-7) is later followed by prophetic hope:
“I will take the blood from their mouths… The one who remains will belong to our God and become a clan in Judah” (Zechariah 9:7).
This points forward to the inclusion of all nations in the kingdom of God through the Messiah. Jesus fulfills what Israel could not: complete conquest, not by the sword, but through the cross, bringing peace even to former enemies.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Incomplete Obedience
The failure to fully drive out the Eshkalonites reflects a broader biblical theme of partial obedience leading to long-term consequences (Judges 2:1-3). God desires complete devotion.
2. Conflict Between God’s People and the World
The Philistines, including the Eshkalonites, symbolize worldly powers that resist God’s kingdom. Their ongoing battles with Israel typify spiritual warfare faced by believers (Ephesians 6:10-18).
3. God’s Sovereign Control Over the Nations
Although they opposed Israel, the Eshkalonites were never beyond God’s control. He used them for discipline (Judges 13:1), judgment (Amos 1:8), and ultimately for his redemptive purposes (Zechariah 9:7).
4. The Hope of Inclusion in the Kingdom
Even enemies like the Philistines are not beyond the reach of God’s mercy. Through Christ, God brings people from every tribe and nation into His family (Revelation 5:9).
Reflection Questions
- Are there “Eshkalonite strongholds” in your life that you have left unconquered in your walk with Christ?
- How can you learn from Israel’s failure to fully obey God’s command regarding the land?
- In what ways does Jesus offer hope for former “enemies” of God today?
- How does the inclusion of former adversaries like the Philistines foreshadow the global reach of the gospel?
- What does this account teach about God’s patience and justice in dealing with persistent opposition?
Conclusion:
The Eshkalonites, though only briefly mentioned in Scripture, serve as a powerful symbol of persistent spiritual opposition and God‘s call for total obedience. Yet even in their opposition, God‘s sovereign plan includes hope—not just judgment. Through Jesus Christ, even ancient enemies can be transformed into members of the family of God.