Keraia
1 Samuel 4

1 Samuel 4:7

The Philistines Capture the Ark · 1 Samuel 4:1–11
Read 1 Samuel 4

Translations

Modern
…the Philistines were afraid. “The gods have entered their camp!” they said. “Woe to us, for nothing like this has happened before.
Traditional
And the Philistines were afraid, for they said, God is come into the camp. And they said, Woe unto us! for there hath not been such a thing heretofore.
Literal
And the Philistines were afraid, for they said, “The gods have come into the camp.” And they said, “Woe to us, for there has not been such as this before heretofore.
Latin
Timueruntque Philisthiim, dicentes: Venit Deus in castra. Et ingemuerunt, dicentes:

Original

Hebrew
English
…the Philistines were afraid. “The gods have entered their camp!” they said. “Woe to us, for nothing like this has happened before.

Notes

1 Samuel 4:6–7

Like the Israelites, the Philistines saw the ark as a powerful charm (see 1 Samuel 4:2–3). They believed it would lead to their defeat in battle.

1 Samuel 4:1–7:2

The crisis with the ark of the covenant showed Israel needed Samuel's leadership. It also fulfilled prophecies about Eli and his sons (1 Samuel 3:11–14).

Places

Philistia: An ancient people and region in Canaan

Glossary

Ark of the Covenant Ashkelon Ebenezer Ephraim (Place) Samuel (Person) Samuel, Books of First and Second Saul Shiloh

Topics

Aphek: A City of the Tribe of Issachar: Philistines Defeat Israelites At Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant: An Oracle of God Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant: Taken to Battle Armies: March in Ranks: Ark Taken to Battle The Philistines: Defeated Israel and Took the Ark