Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 17 - Verse 27

When the people in the verse responded in this manner, they were reaffirming their commitment to following the law of retaliation, which was a common practice in ancient times. This principle, known as "an eye for an eye," was a strict form of justice where the punishment for a crime was meant to match the severity of the offense committed. By declaring that the man who killed their leader would face the same fate, the people were emphasizing the seriousness of the crime and the need for justice to be served. This verse reflects the culture of the time and the importance placed on maintaining order and upholding the law. It also highlights the belief that actions have consequences, and that individuals must be held accountable for their deeds. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the values and principles that guided ancient societies in their quest for justice and righteousness.

In this verse, the people are responding to Saul's promise of great rewards to the one who kills Goliath by affirming their agreement with his decree. By saying "So shall it be done to the man that killeth him," they are essentially agreeing to the terms set by Saul, which indicates their support for the incentive he has offered. From a theological perspective, this verse can be seen as a reflection of the cultural and historical context of the Israelites at the time. In ancient societies, such as the one in which this story takes place, rewards and punishments were often used as incentives to encourage certain behaviors. In this case, the promise of rewards for killing Goliath serves to motivate someone to step forward and face the giant, illustrating the importance of courage and faith in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. This verse also highlights the themes of justice and retribution, as the people are expressing their belief in the necessity of punishment for wrongdoing.