שמואל א, פרק ה׳, פסוק ז׳

The presence of a captured sacred object in a foreign land brings undeniable consequences. As the residents of Ashdod observe the destruction unfolding in their city, they take a close look at the events happening around them [מנחת שי]. Through this careful reflection, they come to terms with the undeniable reality of their situation [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The people internalize a difficult truth: the Ark of God is actively bringing judgment, striking both the citizens and their deity [מצודת דוד]. Recognizing the severity of these events, they declare that a heavy, punishing blow has landed upon them and their god, Dagon [מצודת ציון]. This clear understanding of the disaster ultimately drives the residents to the firm conclusion that they must remove the Ark from their city entirely.