The most northerly of the five cities of the Philistines. It fell to the lot of Judah, and then passed to Dan. It was taken by Judah, but the Philistines kept or gained possession. The ark of God was carried there from Ashdod, and from thence was returned to Israel. It was to Ekron that king Ahaziah sent to inquire of the god Baal-zebub if he should recover from his accident. 2 Kings 1:2,3,16 . The city is denounced in the prophets. Joshua 15:11,45,46; Joshua 19:43; Judges 1:18; 1 Samuel 5:10; 1 Samuel 6:16,17; 1 Samuel 7:14; 1 Samuel 17:52; Jeremiah 25:20; Amos 1:8; Zephaniah 2:4; Zechariah 9:5,7 . Identified with Akir, 31 52' N, 34 49' E .