The Bible is an ancient book filled with stories, teachings, and prophecies. One of the most famous stories is the story of Goliath, who is believed to have been a giant with immense strength. However, how big was Goliath in the Bible exactly?
In 1 Samuel 17:4, the Bible states that Goliath “..was six cubits and a span”. The cubit being taken as the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger and has two different lengths calculated; with one being around 44.4 to 53.3 centimeters, and the other as 52.5cm.
Furthermore, a span is considered to be around 18 inches or 45.72cm according to the Bible Encyclopedia, resulting in Goliath’s height being anywhere between 6ft 9inches (205.74cm) and 9ft 5inches (286.7cm).
Ancient historians had also explored this topic. Josephus, an ancient historian, was the first recorded one to suggest Goliath was around 15ft tall. While some people have realized that this isn’t feasible, it shows the impact of Goliath’s size on old readers. Even so, Professor James Charlesworth from the Princeton Theological Seminary insists that Goliath was likely 6’9, which is “ …consistent with Bronze-age warriors.”
Nevertheless, some other Biblical scholars believe that the number given in the text isn’t the only way to measure Goliath’s size. They think that the physical description of him given in the Bible needs to be taken into account. It states that Goliath was wearing “a helmet of bronze on his head, and he wore a scale armor of bronze between his shoulders” (1 Sam 17:5). This appears to make him even taller than the numbers first suggested.
Regardless of Goliath’s exact height, his size has always been a crucial component of his character and a crucial part of this Bible story. He was regarded as a large and dangerous man- a representation of a human overcome with ego and pride. Today, we remember him as a powerful figure and his size has made him an even more unforgettable individual.
What Was Goliath’s Armor?
In 1 Samuel 17:5, we can see that Goliath was not only tall but also heavily armoured. The helmet Goliath wore was made of bronze and was outlined to cover his head and neck. He also had a scale armour, which was likely made of strips of metal, sewn onto leather in a way that made it move like scales. This armour was traditionally used by the Canaanites, and scholars can confirm this to be a potential origin of Goliath’s impressive armour.
According to Professor Thomas Schneider, “The combination of a helmet and a coat of mail made Goliath almost invulnerable against any attack. He took up a spear of extraordinary size and strength, which he was not able to lift easily.” Furthermore, Professor Schneider also explains that the additional armour would have meant that Goliath was likely even taller than the 6-9ft recorded in the Bible.
While the armour may have added to his physical stature, it also likely added to his cockiness and sense of superiority. After all, the armour was a statement of the unrivaled strength which Goliath possessed. It certainly must have looked intimidating in the eyes of any onlooker. In short, Goliath’s armour was an embodiment of his arrogance and his power.
What Defeated Goliath?
With Goliath’s immense size, it appears impossible to think he could be defeated. After all, his size and his armour made him a literal giant. However, he was eventually bested by David, a young but brave shepherd.
David had accepted the challenge to face Goliath and he was equipped with a mere sling and five stones. David approached Goliath with courage and strength, ready to challenge him despite being heavily disadvantaged.
The Bible tells us that David was able to take down Goliath with just one of the stones he had gathered. It was a stone to the forehead which laid Goliath down and able David to win the battle with few resources and immense bravery.
The battle between David and Goliath has become a globally told story, making David a symbol for triumph. It shows that even when we are deeply outmatched, there can still be hope. It reminds us to trust our instincts and take on challenges bravely and intelligently, with faith.
How is Goliath Remembered?
Thinking of a giant being taken down so quickly inspires thoughts of courage and strength. This is why Goliath is often remembered as a leader who was eventually taken down by a much weaker force. He has become an almost fictional representation of feisty arrogance.
Goliath is also a symbol of strength and resilience-a person who, although defeated, faced death with unbowed spirit. He was resilient and brave even though he faced certain death. This is why Goliath can be seen in certain stories as an emblem of resilience.
All in all, Goliath is remembered for his size, his bravery, and his resilience. In addition, David’s courage and faith face Goliath remind us all to never yield to arrogance and the odds faced against us. This is why the story of David and Goliath is so often told.
What Other Bible Figures Faced Goliath?
Before David faced Goliath, many other people had also tried to fight the giant with no success. All of this started when Golith first turned up to the battle in 1 Samuel 17:8. Saul, who was the king at that time, offered great rewards to anyone who could face Goliath, but people were too afraid to take the challenge.
This fear was caused by Goliath’s size and many stories suggest that he was an unmatched giant. Eventually, Saul’s own army also started to lose confidence in him and his army. Many people, including Eliab, Abinadab and Shammah, joined to face Goliath but they all stepped down.
It wasn’t until David noticed the commotion and overheard Goliath’s insults that he stepped in and offered to take the challenge. This is why David is often seen as a symbol of courage and faith- since he was not afraid of Goliath’s size and the other challengers were.
Conclusion of Goliath’s Legacy
As a result of his infamous battle, Goliath has become a legendary figure in the Bible. He is remembered for his immense size and courage, which has seen him become an archetypal symbol of arrogance and dominance. Along with this, his defeat at the hands of the young and brave David has been widely praised and offers lessons of faith and courage.
Finally, the story of David and Goliath has served as a reminder of the strength of courage and faith, and can be a source of hope in times of adversity. It is a parable of taking on challenges and triumphing against all odds. This legacy of Goliath and David’s courage remains relevant even after thousands of years and will continue to do so for generations to come.
