1 Samuel 17:8
And he stood and cried unto the armies of Israel, and said unto them, Why are ye come out to set your battle in array? am not I a Philistine, and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and let him come down to me.
1 Samuel 17:8 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of 1 Samuel, we see the Philistine champion, Goliath, challenging the armies of Israel to send out a champion to fight him in single combat. Goliath questions why the Israelites have come out to set their battle in array when he, a Philistine, is their designated adversary, and they are servants to King Saul. This challenge presents a dilemma for the Israelites, as they are faced with an intimidating opponent and the potential consequences of defeat. The choice of selecting a champion to represent the entire army is crucial, as the outcome of this individual battle will impact the fate of both nations. Ultimately, this verse serves as a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, highlighting themes of faith, courage, and the importance of choosing a representative to face challenges and obstacles.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 1 Samuel 17:8, the Philistine champion Goliath challenges the armies of Israel to send forth a champion to fight him in single combat. Through a theological interpretation, this verse can be seen as a demonstration of Goliath's confidence in his own strength and the defiance of the God of Israel. Goliath's taunts serve to intimidate the Israelites and question their faith in their own God. Additionally, the reference to being servants to Saul highlights the political tension between the Israelites and the Philistines. This verse also raises questions about the nature of power and authority - Goliath claims to be a servant to Saul, but ultimately, it is God who will determine the outcome of the impending battle. Word studies in this verse can explore the meaning of terms such as "set your battle in array" and "choose you a man," shedding light on the military strategies employed by ancient civilizations and the cultural norms surrounding warfare.
1 Samuel 17:8 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he stood and cried unto the armies of Israel, and said unto them, Why are ye come out to set your battle in array? am not I a Philistine, and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and let him come down to me.
World English Bible
He stood and cried to the armies of Israel, and said to them, “Why have you come out to set your battle in array? Am I not a Philistine, and you servants to Saul? Choose a man for yourselves, and let him come down to me.
Douay-Rheims
And standing, he cried out to the bands of Israel, and said to them: Why are you come out prepared to fight? am not I a Philistine, and you the servants of Saul? Choose out a man of you, and let him come down and fight hand to hand.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he stoode, and cried against the hoste of Israel, and saide vnto them, Why are yee come to set your battell in aray? am not I a Philistim, and you seruaunts to Saul? chuse you a man for you, and let him come downe to me.