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Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 17 - Verse 51

17:51
Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled.

Meaning

David's victory over the giant Goliath in this verse symbolizes courage, faith, and the power of God to deliver his people from their enemies. By running towards Goliath and slaying him with just a small stone and a slingshot, David exemplifies the idea that with God on our side, we can conquer any adversary no matter how formidable they may seem. The act of cutting off Goliath's head signifies the complete defeat of evil forces and the triumph of righteousness. As the Philistines see their champion lying dead at David's feet, they are filled with fear and flee, showcasing the awe-inspiring power of God's chosen servant. This verse reminds believers that in moments of fear or doubt, we can draw strength from the story of David and Goliath, trusting in God's ability to empower us to overcome even the most daunting challenges that stand in our way.

Theological Overview

In the theological interpretation of this verse from 1 Samuel 17:51, the actions of David are often seen as a reflection of his faith and trust in God. As David ran towards Goliath, he did so with the confidence that God was on his side, and he acted in accordance with this belief. By taking Goliath's sword and using it to cut off his head, David demonstrated not only his bravery but also his reliance on God's strength to help him overcome his enemies. This event is often interpreted as a symbol of the victory of faith over seemingly insurmountable obstacles, as David, a young shepherd boy, triumphs over a giant warrior through the power of God.

Word studies on this verse can provide additional insights into the actions and motivations of David. For example, the Hebrew word for "ran" can also connote a sense of urgency or swift action, suggesting that David approached the battle with determination and purpose. Similarly, the act of taking Goliath's own sword to defeat him could symbolize the irony of using the enemy's weapons against him, turning his strength into weakness. These word studies help to illuminate the deeper meanings and significance of David's actions in this pivotal moment.

American Standard Version

Then David ran, and stood over the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled.
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