עֶקְרוֹן (eq.ron)
eq.ron
Ekron
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 20 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The name Ekron identifies one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, situated in the northern part of their territory. Etymologically, it derives from a root meaning "to uproot" or "eradicate," suggesting a significance tied to removal or displacement. This linguistic connection is echoed in prophetic texts, such as Zephaniah 2:4, where the city’s fate is linked to destruction.
In the historical narratives, Ekron appears frequently in accounts of conflict and tribal boundaries. It is mentioned in Joshua as part of the land initially assigned to Judah but later associated with the tribe of Dan. The city plays a notable role in the story of the Ark of the Covenant, where the Philistines send it back after causing havoc, specifically noting its return to Ekron (1 Samuel 6:16-17). It also features in the narrative of David’s victory over the Philistines at Gath and Ekron (1 Samuel 17:52).
The city’s prominence is further highlighted in the reign of King Ahaziah, who sent messengers to consult Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, regarding his recovery from illness (2 Kings 1:2). This incident underscores Ekron’s status as a center of Philistine religious and political power during that period. The name itself, meaning "uprooting," serves as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of such earthly strongholds in the biblical narrative.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Ekron stands as one of the five major cities of the Philistines, located in the northern part of their territory. Its name carries a meaning tied to uprooting or removal, which aligns with its eventual fate in biblical prophecy. While it was once a center of political and religious power for the Philistines, including worship of Baal-zebub, the narrative consistently shows that such earthly strongholds are temporary.
For your faith, this history offers a quiet reassurance. The stories involving Ekron—from the Ark’s journey to King Ahaziah’s failed inquiry—highlight the limits of human power and false gods. When we face situations where our own strength or the support of others seems insufficient, these accounts remind us that true stability does not come from our circumstances or alliances.
Instead, they point toward a faithfulness that endures beyond changing borders and fallen cities. You can find comfort in knowing that while worldly powers may rise and fall, the God of Israel remains constant. This perspective helps us navigate uncertainty with peace, trusting in a hope that is not rooted in shifting ground.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 20 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Ekron15×
- and/ Ekron4×
- from/ Ekron2×
- for/ Ekron1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עֶקְר֔וֹן3×
- עֶקְר֑וֹן3×
- וְ/עֶקְר֖וֹן3×
- עֶקְרֽוֹן\׃2×
- עֶקְר֖וֹן2×
- עֶקְרוֹן֮1×
- עֶקְרוֹן֙1×
- עֶקְרוֹן֒1×
- עֶקְר֥וֹן1×
- עֶקְר֗וֹן1×
- מֵ/עֶקְר֣וֹן1×
- מֵ/עֶקְר֖וֹן1×
Key Verses
-
I Samuel 5:10
So they sent God’s ark to Ekron. As God’s ark came to Ekron, the Ekronites cried out, saying, “They have brought the ark of the God of Israel here to us, to kill us and our people.”
This verse captures the Ekronites' fear when the Ark arrives, showing how the presence of God disrupts even the most hostile environments.
-
II Kings 1:2
Ahaziah fell down through the lattice in his upper room that was in Samaria, and was sick. So he sent messengers, and said to them, “Go, inquire of Baal Zebub, the god of Ekron, whether I will recover from this sickness.”
King Ahaziah’s decision to consult Baal-zebub of Ekron highlights the spiritual confusion that arises when people turn away from the true God in times of crisis.
-
Zephaniah 2:4
For Gaza will be forsaken, and Ashkelon a desolation. They will drive out Ashdod at noonday, and Ekron will be rooted up.
The prophecy that Ekron will be rooted up fulfills the meaning of its name, illustrating the transient nature of Philistine power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Ekron mean?
Why is Ekron mentioned in the story of King Ahaziah?
How does Ekron relate to the Ark of the Covenant?
Every Occurrence (20 verses across 8 books)
Joshua 5 verses
from the Shihor, which is before Egypt, even to the border of Ekron northward, which is counted as Canaanite; the five…
Joshua 15:11and the border went out to the side of Ekron northward; and the border extended to Shikkeron, and passed along to Mount…
Joshua 15:45Ekron, with its towns and its villages;
Joshua 15:46from Ekron even to the sea, all that were by the side of Ashdod, with their villages.
Joshua 19:43Elon, Timnah, Ekron,