Question 1

What does 1 Samuel 17:27 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Samuel 17:27 describes how the people responded to David by repeating what would be done for the man who killed Goliath. The verse shows that the reward for defeating Goliath was well known among the people standing there. In this scene, David is speaking with the Israelite soldiers about Goliath’s challenge. The people answer David, confirming the reward King Saul has promised—likely riches, the king’s daughter, and exemption from taxes—for whoever defeats Goliath. This exchange highlights both the seriousness of Goliath’s threat and the great incentive being offered to anyone brave enough to face him.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 17:27

Accepted Answer

עָם (ʿam, "people"): This word refers to the group of Israelites David is speaking with, emphasizing that the response comes from the collective soldiers, not just one individual. דָּבָר (davar, "manner" or "word"): This word often means "word" or "matter," and here it points to the specific message or report being repeated about the reward. עָשָׂה (ʿasah, "done"): This verb means "to do" or "to make," and in this context, it refers to what will be given or done for the person who kills Goliath, stressing the action and certainty of the promised reward. נָכָה (nakah, "killeth" or "strikes down"): This verb means "to strike" or "to smite," and it underlines the violent action required—defeating Goliath is not just about bravery, but about actually overcoming him in battle.

Question 3

Why 1 Samuel 17:27 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse confirms that the promise of reward for killing Goliath is not just a rumor but is widely known and repeated among the troops, setting up the motivation for David’s next actions. The verse highlights the fear and hesitation among the Israelites; despite knowing the reward, no one has yet stepped forward, which makes David’s interest stand out. By repeating the promise, the people show both the king’s desperation and the extraordinary nature of the challenge, helping the reader understand the stakes in the story of David and Goliath.

1 Samuel 17:27 (KJV)