The Ekronites called all the Philistine rulers together. They said, ‘Send the ark of Israel’s God away. Let it return to its place so it won’t kill us and our people! ’ For the fear of death pervaded the city; God’s hand was oppressing them.
Now, look, the Lord’s hand is against you. You are going to be blind, and will not see the sun for a time.’ Immediately a mist and darkness fell on him, and he went around seeking someone to lead him by the hand.
When the people of Ashdod saw what was happening, they said, ‘The ark of Israel’s God must not stay here with us, because his hand is strongly against us and our god Dagon.’
After they had moved it, the Lord’s hand was against the city of Gath, causing a great panic. He afflicted the people of the city, from the youngest to the oldest, with an outbreak of tumours.