Topical Encyclopedia The sword of Goliath holds a significant place in biblical history, symbolizing both the might of the Philistine warrior and the providential deliverance of Israel through David. This weapon is first introduced in the narrative of David and Goliath, found in 1 Samuel 17. Goliath, a champion of the Philistines, is described as a giant of formidable strength and stature, and his sword is part of his impressive armament, which also includes a bronze helmet, a coat of scale armor, and a spear like a weaver's beam.1 Samuel 17:51 : "David ran and stood over him. He took hold of the Philistine’s sword and drew it from its sheath. And when he had killed him, he cut off his head with the sword. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they turned and ran." The sword of Goliath becomes a pivotal instrument in David's victory over the Philistine giant. After striking Goliath with a stone from his sling, David uses Goliath's own sword to decapitate him, thus securing a decisive victory for Israel. This act not only demonstrates David's courage and faith in God but also serves as a turning point in his rise to prominence within Israel. Later, the sword of Goliath reappears in the biblical narrative as a symbol of God's continued provision and protection over David. In 1 Samuel 21, David, fleeing from King Saul, seeks refuge with Ahimelech the priest at Nob. In need of a weapon, David is given the sword of Goliath, which had been kept behind the ephod as a sacred relic. 1 Samuel 21:9 : "The priest replied, 'The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom you killed in the Valley of Elah, is here; it is wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod. If you want it, take it, for there is no other but this one.' And David said, 'There is none like it; give it to me.'" The presence of Goliath's sword at Nob, and its subsequent use by David, underscores the theme of divine providence. The sword, once a symbol of Philistine power, becomes a testament to God's deliverance and favor upon David. It serves as a tangible reminder of past victories and God's faithfulness, providing David with both physical protection and spiritual encouragement during his time of need. Throughout the biblical account, the sword of Goliath is more than just a weapon; it is a symbol of the triumph of faith over brute strength and the assurance of God's sovereignty in the affairs of His people. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 21:9And the priest said, The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom you slew in the valley of Elah, behold, it is here wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod: if you will take that, take it: for there is no other save that here. And David said, There is none like that; give it me. Nave's Topical Index Library How the Philistines Made Another Expedition against the Hebrews ... 'The Sword of the Spirit' The Sword of the Spirit The victory of Unarmed Faith New Uses for Old Trophies David's victory Over the Giant Letter Lxx. To Magnus an Orator of Rome. The Living One Use what You Have The Call of David. Resources What are the weapons of righteousness in 2 Corinthians 6:7? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are watchmen in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did God have the cherubim guard just the east side of Eden (Genesis 3:24)? | GotQuestions.org Sword: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sword: David's Army Equipped With Sword: To be Beaten Into Plowshares The Sword in Time of Peace Made Into Plough Shares The Sword in Time of War, Plough Shares Made Into The Sword of Deep Mental Affliction The Sword of Judicial Authority The Sword of Persecuting Spirit of the Wicked The Sword of Severe and Heavy Calamities The Sword of the End of the Wicked The Sword of the Justice of God The Sword of the Protection of God The Sword of the Tongue of the Wicked The Sword of the Word of Christ The Sword of War and Contention The Sword was Brandished Over the Head The Sword was One of God's Four Sore Judgments The Sword was Thrust Through Enemies The Sword was Used by Heathen Nations The Sword was Used by the Jews The Sword was Used by the Patriarchs The Sword was Used for Destruction of Enemies The Sword was Used for Punishing Criminals The Sword was Used for Self-Defence The Sword was Used: Sometimes for Self-Destruction The Sword: (Drawing of) of War and Destruction The Sword: (Living By) of Rapine The Sword: (Not Departing from One's House) of Perpetual Calamity The Sword: (Putting, Into Its Sheath) Peace and Friendship The Sword: Carried in a Sheath or Scabbard The Sword: Frequently had Two Edges The Sword: Hebrews Early Acquainted With Making of The Sword: Often Sent As a Punishment The Sword: Often Threatened As a Punishment The Sword: Sharpened and Furbished Before Going to War The Sword: Suspended from the Girdle The Sword: Those Slain By, Communicated Ceremonial Uncleanness Related Terms |