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H1016 · Hebrew · Old Testament
בֵּית דָּגוֹן
Beth-Dagon
Proper noun, place
House of Dagon

Definition

The name of two places in ancient Israel — one in the territory of Judah (Joshua 15:41) and one in Asher (Joshua 19:27). Both share the name of the Philistine grain or fish deity Dagon, indicating temples or settlements associated with that deity.

Usage & Theological Significance

The presence of a city called "House of Dagon" within the borders of God's promised land serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual battle for covenant territory. Dagon's temple was the site of two dramatic confrontations with Israel's God: the ark of the covenant prostrating the Dagon idol (1 Samuel 5), and Samson's final act of worship-through-destruction (Judges 16). Wherever the presence of the LORD manifests, false gods fall. The idols of every age must bow before the living God.

Key Bible Verses

Joshua 15:41 Gederoth, Beth Dagon, Naamah and Makkedah — sixteen towns and their villages.
1 Samuel 5:4 But the following morning when they rose, there was Dagon, fallen on his face on the ground before the ark of the LORD! His head and hands had been broken off and were lying on the threshold.
Judges 16:30 Samson said, "Let me die with the Philistines!" Then he pushed with all his might, and down came the temple on the rulers and all the people in it.
Isaiah 46:1 Bel bows down, Nebo stoops low; their idols are borne by animals and cattle.
Psalm 96:5 For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens.

Related Words

External Resources

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