“Wherefore ye shall make images of your emerods, and images of your mice that mar the land; and ye shall give glory unto the God of Israel: peradventure he will lighten his hand from off you, and from off your gods, and from off your land.”
Context: In this verse, the Philistines have captured the Ark of the Covenant, which belonged to the Israelites. However, they soon realize that the Ark brings calamity upon them, and they suffer from plagues and diseases. In their distress, they seek a way to return the Ark safely to the Israelites.
Emerods and Mice: The term “emerods” refers to tumors or swellings, specifically in the context of the Philistines’ affliction. The Philistines believed that these tumors were a result of divine punishment for their possession of the Ark. They also faced an infestation of mice, which further added to their troubles.
Making Images: The Philistines are advised to make images or representations of the emerods and mice that plagued them. These images were likely to serve as offerings or symbols of their affliction. By doing so, they sought to acknowledge the power of the God of Israel, hoping that He might alleviate their suffering.
Giving Glory to the God of Israel: The Philistines were instructed to give glory or honor to the God of Israel. This suggests a recognition of the superiority of the Israelite God and an acknowledgment of His role in their troubles. They hoped that by revering the God of Israel, He might remove His hand of judgment from them, their idols, and their land.
Seeking Deliverance: The Philistines’ actions reveal their desire for relief from the plagues and diseases they faced. They recognized that the God of Israel had the power to bring both affliction and deliverance. By making the images and giving glory to the God of Israel, they sought to appease Him and find respite from their suffering.
Overall, 1 Samuel 6:5 demonstrates the Philistines’ acknowledgment of the power and authority of the God of Israel. It highlights their attempts to seek deliverance from the calamities they faced and find a way to return the captured Ark without further harm. This verse reminds us of the universal truth that God’s power extends beyond the boundaries of a specific people or nation, and He can bring both judgment and mercy as He deems fit.
