1 Samuel 17: 32-54 Essay

Biblical Passage: 1 Samuel 17:32-54 The passage of 1 Samuel 17:32-54 opens with a brief discussion between Saul and David over the Philistine giant Goliath. A terrified Saul pleads with David not to accept Goliath’s challenge of a fight to the death. However, David is determined on confronting the giant as he has insulted God and His people. After hearing David’s passionate words, Saul allows him to fight. Approaching Goliath, David is dressed in a simple tunic, carrying a staff as well as his sling and pouch of rocks. They exchange words and Goliath charges. David calmly reaches into his pouch and using his sling hurtles a stone, embedding it in Goliath’s head. He needed neither sword nor spear to defeat the Philistine giant, instead it was His faith in God that allowed him
It was determined that the best place to begin this passage was 1 Samuel 17:31, the interaction among David and Saul about whether he could fight Goliath. If the passage had started on an earlier verse, then it would have muddled the focus of this paper and the religious truths. The passage selected ends on verse 54, as it concludes the battle between the two men and also highlights the key moments following the Israelites victory.
Ancient Audience: Interpretation According to the Reading Guide, the story of David and Goliath serves as an example of what one can accomplish when he or she places their faith in God (Senior, Collins, Getty 2017, 207). It is quite apparent that the Priestly writer’s intentions were to fill the exiled Israelites with hope that with faith, God will provide for them. In the verses leading up to the text selected, it describes how no one had the courage to face Goliath due to the fear of defeat. Yet, when David hears Goliath mock and ridicule the Israelite’s Lord, he immediately volunteers. How is it that David, a youth, was able to defeat the giant