1 Samuel 17 6

1 Samuel 17:6 kjv

And he had greaves of brass upon his legs, and a target of brass between his shoulders.

1 Samuel 17:6 nkjv

And he had bronze armor on his legs and a bronze javelin between his shoulders.

1 Samuel 17:6 niv

on his legs he wore bronze greaves, and a bronze javelin was slung on his back.

1 Samuel 17:6 esv

And he had bronze armor on his legs, and a javelin of bronze slung between his shoulders.

1 Samuel 17:6 nlt

He also wore bronze leg armor, and he carried a bronze javelin on his shoulder.

1 Samuel 17 verses

1 Samuel 17 6 Meaning

1 Samuel 17:6 details further aspects of Goliath's imposing military equipment, specifying that he wore protective bronze armor on his lower legs, known as greaves, and carried a bronze javelin slung for easy access on his back, between his shoulders. This verse, along with the surrounding description, underscores Goliath's immense size, strength, and advanced weaponry, presenting him as a formidable champion equipped for extensive combat.

1 Samuel 17 6 Context

This verse is part of the extensive description of Goliath of Gath, the champion of the Philistines, as he issues his challenge to the armies of Israel. Prior verses (1 Samuel 17:4-5) establish his enormous stature, helmet, coat of mail, and the weight of his armor, setting the scene for an almost impossible battle for any Israelite soldier. Verses 6 and 7 complete this portrayal of his physical dominance and intimidating armaments, highlighting his technological superiority and readiness for any form of combat. This detailed description serves to magnify the perceived invincibility of Goliath, intensifying the fear and paralysis of the Israelite army and dramatically underscoring the contrast with the unassuming young shepherd David, who would later confront him. Historically, the Philistines were known for their advanced metallurgy (including ironwork, though this verse specifies bronze) and military organization, often posing a significant threat to Israel's nascent kingdom under King Saul. Goliath's magnificent armor embodies this military advantage, challenging not only Israel's army but implicitly, their God.

1 Samuel 17 6 Word analysis

• greaves (מִצְחַת, mitzchath): This term refers to pieces of defensive armor covering the shins, typically from the knee to the ankle. Their presence signifies comprehensive protection and Goliath's immense size, as they would need to be custom-made for such a large individual. The detail emphasizes his preparation and invulnerability from various attacks.

• brass/bronze (נְחֹשֶׁת, nechosheth): While often translated "brass" in older versions like KJV, the more accurate rendering in most contexts for ancient periods is "bronze," an alloy of copper and tin. Bronze was a valuable and strong metal for weaponry and armor in the ancient world, predating widespread iron use in this region (though the Philistines were pioneers of iron metallurgy). The sheer amount of bronze described across Goliath's armor (greaves, javelin, scale-mail) suggests significant wealth, technological sophistication, and a truly heavy, imposing warrior. This material, though robust, still represents a human-made defense, contrasting with the divine protection later demonstrated.

• javelin (כִּידוֹן, kidon): This term indicates a light spear or dart designed primarily for throwing, as opposed to a heavier thrusting spear (chanit), though sometimes also used in close quarters. The detail that he also had a spear in verse 7 distinguishes these weapons. Its presence means Goliath had both projectile and close-combat options.

• between his shoulders (כֵּין כְּתֵפָיו, kein ketephav): This phrasing indicates that the javelin was slung or strapped to his back, readily accessible. It signifies that this was an auxiliary weapon, freeing his hands for his primary spear (v.7) or sword, demonstrating his array of offensive capabilities and readiness for multi-faceted combat. The imagery completes the picture of a fully equipped and dangerous warrior.

• greaves of brass/bronze: This specific phrase highlights Goliath's complete armor, not only covering his vital organs but also his lower limbs. Such detailed leg protection would have made him extremely difficult to bring down by conventional means, signaling an impenetrable foe.

• a javelin of brass/bronze between his shoulders: This grouping points to the range and versatility of Goliath's arsenal. He was equipped not just for direct combat but also for projecting force. The "between his shoulders" positioning emphasizes a secondary, perhaps easily discarded, or quickly drawn weapon, ready to be thrown if the opponent tried to keep distance. It suggests a professional warrior leaving no avenue of attack unequipped for.

1 Samuel 17 6 Bonus section

The description of Goliath's full bronze equipment is not just historical detail; it creates a symbolic "mountain of metal" representing the impenetrable human barriers against God's will. The fact that David faces such an opponent with the most primitive of weapons highlights the divine intervention and the ultimate victory of faith over overwhelming material odds. The "bronze" also, throughout the Bible, is a material used in the Tabernacle and Temple (altar, laver), sometimes symbolizing judgment, purification, or enduring strength from God. Here, applied to Goliath, it ironically shows his strength that is destined to be judged by the Lord. This verse's careful articulation of each piece of Goliath's armor serves to highlight the extraordinary nature of David's victory and the mighty power of God demonstrated through him.

1 Samuel 17 6 Commentary

1 Samuel 17:6 paints a vivid picture of Goliath's meticulous preparation for battle, showcasing his overwhelming physical and material superiority. The bronze greaves underscore his almost impregnable defense, ensuring that his vulnerable legs were also covered against attacks, common for large, slower moving targets. This detailed armament underscores the gravity of the challenge faced by Israel. The "bronze" material speaks not only to its weight and strength but also potentially symbolizes the prevailing military technology of the Philistines.

The mention of a bronze javelin slung "between his shoulders" suggests a fighter fully optimized for various combat ranges and situations. He possesses a close-quarters primary weapon (spear, v.7) and sword (v.51 implied), a defensive full body armor, and a ranged projectile weapon ready for quick deployment. This comprehensive setup portrays Goliath not just as a large man, but as a meticulously prepared, self-sufficient war machine, embodying Philistine military prowess and advanced metallurgy.

This verse builds on the description, solidifying Goliath's role as the embodiment of overwhelming human power and might. This description is not merely for narrative detail but serves a crucial theological purpose: to contrast this magnificent human display with the apparent inadequacy of David, armed only with a staff, sling, and five smooth stones. The story vividly illustrates that true victory does not depend on physical strength, advanced weaponry, or human ingenuity, but on the power and faithfulness of the Lord (1 Sam 17:47; Zech 4:6). The narrative elevates God's ability to humble the mighty and exalt the weak, showing that reliance on the Creator far surpasses any trust in created might.