Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionGoliath, a central figure in the biblical narrative of 1 Samuel 17, is depicted as a formidable Philistine warrior who defied the armies of Israel. His encounter with David, a young shepherd, is one of the most iconic accounts in the Bible, illustrating themes of faith, courage, and divine intervention. Background Goliath hailed from Gath, one of the five city-states of the Philistines, known for producing giants (1 Samuel 17:4). Described as a champion, Goliath's physical stature was imposing, standing "six cubits and a span" tall, which is approximately nine feet nine inches (1 Samuel 17:4). His armor and weaponry were equally impressive, including a bronze helmet, a coat of scale armor weighing five thousand shekels of bronze, bronze greaves, and a javelin (1 Samuel 17:5-6). The head of his spear alone weighed six hundred shekels of iron, and he was accompanied by a shield-bearer (1 Samuel 17:7). Defiance of Israel Goliath's challenge to Israel occurred during a standoff between the Philistines and the Israelites in the Valley of Elah. For forty days, Goliath taunted the Israelite army, demanding a representative to fight him in single combat, declaring, "Choose a man for yourselves, and let him come down to me" (1 Samuel 17:8). His defiance was not merely a military challenge but also a spiritual affront, as he defied "the ranks of Israel" and, by extension, the God of Israel (1 Samuel 17:10). David's Arrival David, the youngest son of Jesse, was sent by his father to deliver provisions to his brothers, who were part of Saul's army. Upon hearing Goliath's taunts, David was stirred to action, questioning why this "uncircumcised Philistine" should defy "the armies of the living God" (1 Samuel 17:26). Despite his youth and inexperience in battle, David's faith in God emboldened him to accept Goliath's challenge. The Battle Rejecting King Saul's offer of armor, David approached Goliath with only a sling and five smooth stones from a brook. His confidence was rooted in his past experiences of God's deliverance from the paw of the lion and the bear (1 Samuel 17:34-37). As Goliath advanced, David declared, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied" (1 Samuel 17:45). In a dramatic and swift encounter, David slung a stone that struck Goliath on the forehead, causing the giant to fall face down to the ground. David then used Goliath's own sword to behead him, securing a decisive victory for Israel (1 Samuel 17:49-51). Aftermath The defeat of Goliath by David had profound implications. It not only demoralized the Philistine army, leading to their retreat, but also marked the beginning of David's rise to prominence in Israel. Saul's inquiry about David's lineage following the victory (1 Samuel 17:55-58) foreshadows David's future as the anointed king of Israel. Theological Significance The account of David and Goliath is often interpreted as a testament to the power of faith and God's sovereignty. David's victory over Goliath is seen as a divine act, demonstrating that God empowers those who trust in Him, regardless of their apparent weaknesses or the might of their adversaries. This narrative continues to inspire believers, emphasizing that with God, all things are possible. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 17:1Now the Philistines gathered together their armies to battle, and were gathered together at Shochoh, which belongs to Judah, and pitched between Shochoh and Azekah, in Ephesdammim. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 21:9 1 Samuel 22:10 Library David. The Power of a Pebble. David the Shepherd Youth. David's victory Over the Giant The Story of David An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus A Treatise of the Fear of God; Resources Why did David choose five smooth stones before going to fight Goliath? | GotQuestions.orgWas Goliath one of the Nephilim? | GotQuestions.org How old was David when he was anointed, fought Goliath, became king, died? | GotQuestions.org Goliath: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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