Who was Goliath?

Philistine giant challenger.

The story of Goliath

Goliath - Champion of the Philistines
Goliath - Champion of the Philistines
Died: -1024Champion of the Philistines

Goliath was a giant warrior of the Philistine army who was defeated by the young David in a famous battle described in the First Book of Samuel in the Hebrew Bible. According to the biblical account, Goliath challenged the Israelites to send out a champion to fight him in single combat, with the winner taking control of the battlefield. When no Israelite warrior was willing to accept the challenge, the young shepherd David stepped forward and agreed to fight Goliath. Despite being vastly outmatched in size and strength, David relied on his faith in God and was able to defeat Goliath using only a slingshot and a stone. Goliath is remembered as a symbol of the power and pride of the Philistine army, and as a figure who was ultimately defeated by the courage and faith of a young man. He is also remembered as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of pride and overconfidence. The exact date of Goliath's life and death is not specified in the Bible, but he is believed to have lived sometime between the 11th and 10th centuries BCE. The story of David and Goliath continues to be an important part of the religious and cultural heritage of many people around the world, and it continues to shape the way that people understand the nature of courage, faith, and victory in the face of adversity.

Name meaning

The name "Goliath" is most famously known from the biblical story of David and Goliath found in the Hebrew Bible or Old Testament. Goliath is described as a giant Philistine warrior who was defeated by the young shepherd David in a battle with a single stone and a sling. Over time, the name "Goliath" has come to symbolize a large and powerful adversary, especially one that seems invincible or overpowering, but can be overcome by a smaller or weaker opponent through ingenuity or skill. The story has metaphorical implications of triumph against great odds, often used to illustrate the theme of the underdog overcoming a formidable foe.

Name origin

Hebrew

Role

Champion of the Philistines

First mention

1 Samuel 17:4

Appearances in the Bible

6 mentions

In Hebrew

גולית