1 Samuel 6:17

And these are the golden emerods which the Philistines returned for a trespass offering unto the Lord; for Ashdod one, for Gaza one, for Askelon one, for Gath one, for Ekron one;

1 Samuel 6:17 (KJV)

Context

This verse lists the golden tumors, called “emerods” in the King James Version, that the Philistines sent back with the Ark of the Covenant. After capturing the Ark, the Philistines suffered severe plagues in their cities (1 Samuel 5). Their priests and diviners advised them to return the Ark with a guilt offering, one golden tumor for each of the five Philistine lords and their cities (1 Samuel 6:3-4). The Philistines recognized that the Ark’s presence had brought God’s judgment upon them, so they sought to appease Him.

Meaning

The five golden tumors were replicas of the afflictions that had struck the Philistines. By making these images, they acknowledged that the plagues came from the God of Israel. The offering was called a “trespass offering,” meaning a guilt offering, a way to admit wrongdoing and seek to make amends. Each city—Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron—gave one, showing that the judgment had touched all five principalities. This specific list also serves as a historical record of the Philistine confederation and the extent of the plague.

Biblical connections

The Philistines’ action, though pagan in origin, shows a recognition of the Lord’s power. Yet their offering was external and lacked true faith. This contrasts with the heartfelt repentance God requires, as seen throughout Scripture. The account also foreshadows the perfect sacrifice of Christ, who bore the curse of sin for His people (Galatians 3:13). God is not to be manipulated by offerings; He desires genuine repentance and obedience.

Application

This passage warns against trying to appease God with mere rituals. The Philistines sent gold, but they did not change their hearts. True repentance involves turning from sin and obeying God. When we face trials, we should examine our own lives, confess genuine sin, and honor God’s holiness in worship. It also reminds us that God’s power extends over all nations, even those who do not know Him, and He can use even pagan peoples to accomplish His purposes.

Reflection

The golden tumors remind us that God’s presence brings both blessing and judgment. He is sovereign over all nations, even those who do not know Him. The Philistines could not manipulate Him with offerings. We also cannot earn His favor by outward acts alone. Real peace comes only through reconciliation with God through Christ, who paid the full penalty for sin. This account points to the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus.