1 Samuel 21:9
And the priest said, The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom thou slewest in the valley of Elah, behold, it is here wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod: if thou wilt take that, take it: for there is no other save that here. And David said, There is none like that; give it me.
1 Samuel 21:9 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Bible, David is confronted by a priest who presents him with the sword of Goliath, the Philistine giant whom David had defeated in the valley of Elah. The priest informs David that this is the only existing sword of Goliath and offers it to him. David's response is significant as he acknowledges the uniqueness and symbolism of the sword, illustrating his courage and faith in God's power. By accepting the sword of Goliath, David not only asserts his victory over his enemy but also signifies his trust in God's strength and protection. This exchange between David and the priest serves as a reminder of David's bravery in the face of adversity and his unwavering belief in God's guidance.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 1 Samuel 21:9, we see an interesting interaction between David and a priest. The priest offers David the sword of Goliath, the Philistine giant that David famously defeated in the valley of Elah. This exchange sheds light on several theological themes. Firstly, the fact that the sword of Goliath was being kept behind the ephod, a sacred garment worn by priests, suggests the importance placed on this victory by God's people. The symbolic significance of David taking Goliath's sword could be seen as a sign of the defeat of the enemies of God's people. Additionally, David's response in accepting the sword shows his willingness to acknowledge and embrace the victories that God has given him. This verse highlights the faithfulness of God in delivering His people and the importance of remembering and celebrating His victories in our lives.
1 Samuel 21:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the priest said, The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom thou slewest in the vale of Elah, behold, it is here wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod: if thou wilt take that, take it; for there is no other save that here. And David said, There is none like that; give it me.
World English Bible
The priest said, “The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom you killed in the valley of Elah, behold, it is here wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod. If you will take that, take it; for there is no other except that here.” David said, “There is none like that. Give it to me.”
Douay-Rheims
And the priest said: Lo, here is the sword of Goliath, the Philistine, whom thou slewest in the valley of Terebinth, wrapped up in a cloth behind the ephod: if thou wilt take this, take it, for here there is no other but this. And David said: There is none like that, give it me.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the Priest said, The sword of Goliath the Philistim, whom thou slewest in the valley of Elah, behold, it is wrapt in a cloth behinde the Ephod: if thou wilt take that to thee, take it: for there is none other saue that here: And Dauid sayd, There is none to that, giue it me.