### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻEqrôwn**, represented by `{{H6138}}`, identifies a major Philistine city. Derived from the root `{{H6131}}` **ʻâqar**, meaning **eradication**, the name itself carries a powerful connotation. It appears **22 times** across **20 unique verses**, highlighting its significance as a political, military, and religious center in the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6138}}` is consistently portrayed as a key Philistine stronghold. It is named as one of the five cities ruled by the **lords** of the **Philistines** [[Joshua 13:3]]. The city's prominence is evident when the Ark of God is sent there, causing the **Ekronites** to cry out in fear that it would **slay** them and their **people** [[1 Samuel 5:10]]. Following David's victory over Goliath, the fleeing **Philistines** were pursued to the very **gates** of **Ekron** [[1 Samuel 17:52]]. It was also known as a center for pagan worship, as King Ahaziah of **Israel** famously sent **messengers** to **enquire** of **Baalzebub** the **god** of **Ekron** [[2 Kings 1:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for understanding Ekron's role and identity:
* `{{H6139}}` **ʻEqrôwnîy** (an Ekronite or inhabitant of Ekron): This term identifies the people of the city, who are listed among the five lordships of the **Philistines** [[Joshua 13:3]] and who reacted in terror to the arrival of the Ark of God [[1 Samuel 5:10]].
* `{{H1176}}` **Baʻal Zᵉbûwb** (Baal-Zebub, a special deity of the Ekronites): This name identifies the specific idol worshipped in **Ekron**. It was to this **god** that a king of **Israel** turned for guidance, drawing a sharp rebuke from the prophet **Elijah** [[2 Kings 1:3]].
* `{{H6131}}` **ʻâqar** (to pluck up, root up): This root word, from which **ʻEqrôwn** is derived, is used in a direct prophecy against the city. The prophet Zephaniah declared that **Ekron** shall be **rooted up** [[Zephaniah 2:4]], creating a powerful play on its name.
### Theological Significance
The prophetic and narrative significance of `{{H6138}}` is primarily tied to its status as a symbol of opposition to God.
* **Center of Idolatry:** Ekron's worship of **Baalzebub** served as a spiritual snare. The decision by King Ahaziah to **enquire** of Ekron's **god** was condemned as a rejection of the **God** of **Israel** [[2 Kings 1:16]].
* **Target of Divine Judgment:** As a major Philistine city, **Ekron** was a frequent subject of divine judgment. Prophets declared that God would turn His **hand** against **Ekron** and that the **remnant** of the **Philistines** would **perish** [[Amos 1:8]]. Its **expectation** would lead to shame, and the city would be **rooted up** ([[Zephaniah 2:4]], [[Zechariah 9:5]]).
* **Prophecy of Transformation:** In a remarkable turn, the prophet Zechariah foretells a future where Ekron's idolatry is removed. He prophesies that a **remnant** from the city will be for **our God**, and **Ekron** will be incorporated into the people of God, becoming "as a **Jebusite**" [[Zechariah 9:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6138}}` **ʻEqrôwn** is more than just a location on a map. It functions as a representation of a formidable and idolatrous enemy of Israel. From its name meaning **eradication** to its role as a center for **Baalzebub** worship, it stands as an object of divine judgment. Yet, it also serves as an illustration of God's ultimate sovereignty, with prophecy indicating that even this hostile city could be transformed and included among His people.
TRV