1 Samuel 17:1-11

David Kills Goliath

1 The Philistines gathered their army together for war. They came to Socoh in Judah. They set up camp at Ephes Dammim. It was between Socoh and Azekah.

2 Saul and the army of Israel gathered together. They camped in the Valley of Elah. They lined up their men to fight against the Philistines.

3 The Philistine army was camped on one hill. Israel's army was on another. The valley was between them.

4 A mighty hero named Goliath came out of the Philistine camp. He was from Gath. He was more than nine feet tall.

5 He had a bronze helmet on his head. He wore a coat of bronze armor. It weighed 125 pounds.

6 On his legs he wore bronze guards. He carried a bronze javelin on his back.

7 His spear was as big as a weaver's rod. Its iron point weighed 15 pounds. The man who carried his shield walked along in front of him.

8 Goliath stood and shouted to the soldiers of Israel. He said, "Why do you come out and line up for battle? I'm a Philistine. You are servants of Saul. Choose one of your men. Have him come down and face me.

9 If he's able to fight and kill me, we'll become your slaves. But if I win and kill him, you will become our slaves and serve us."

10 Goliath continued, "This very day I dare the soldiers of Israel to send a man down to fight against me."

11 Saul and the whole army of Israel heard what the Philistine said. They were terrified.

1 Samuel 17:1-11 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST SAMUEL 17

This chapter relates how the armies of Israel, and of the Philistines, prepared for battle, and where, 1Sa 17:1-3, describes a champion of the Philistines, who defied the armies of Israel, 1Sa 17:4-11, and while he was so doing, it informs us that David came into the camp, and he heard his words, and signified to one and another his inclination to fight with him, 1Sa 17:12-30, which being reported to Saul, David was sent for by him, and much discourse passed between them about it, 1Sa 17:31-37 when we are told the manner in which he engaged with the Philistine, and the victory he obtained over him, 1Sa 17:38-51 upon which the Philistines fled, and Israel pursued them; and on account of this action David was taken notice of by Saul, and brought to court again, as the following chapter shows, 1Sa 17:52-58.