Now the Philistines gathered together their armies to battle, and were gathered together at Shochoh, which belongeth to Judah, and pitched between Shochoh and Azekah, in Ephesdammim.
The Philistines brought their armies together for war and camped at Shochoh, which was in Judah's territory. They set up their camp between the towns of Shochoh and Azekah, in a place called Ephesdammim.
This verse sets the scene for a major military confrontation, with the Philistine army positioning themselves for battle in Israelite territory.
📚 Historical Context
The Philistines were Israel's most persistent enemies, controlling much of the coastal region and frequently invading Israelite territory. This verse introduces the famous battle where David would face Goliath, taking place in the Elah Valley in the hill country of Judah. The strategic location between Shochoh and Azekah was a key battleground that controlled important trade routes.
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