1 Samuel 17:42 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 17:42 mean?

1 Samuel 17:42 describes how the Philistine, Goliath, looked at David and felt contempt for him because David was young, had a healthy complexion, and was good-looking. Goliath did not take David seriously as a threat because of David’s youth and appearance.

In this scene, Goliath is sizing up David before their famous battle. Instead of seeing a worthy opponent, Goliath sees only a boy who appears harmless and even attractive, not someone he expects to fight. The verse sets up the dramatic contrast between outward appearance and what God can accomplish through someone others might overlook.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 17:42

• "Disdained" (בָּזָה, bazah): This word means to despise or hold in contempt. Goliath’s reaction is not just surprise, but real scorn—he looks down on David as unworthy of respect.
• "Youth" (נַעַר, na'ar): This term often refers to a boy or young man, sometimes even a teenager. It emphasizes how inexperienced and physically unimposing David seemed.
• "Ruddy" (אַדְמוֹנִי, admoni): This word describes a reddish or healthy color, often used for someone with a fresh, vibrant appearance. It highlights David’s youthfulness and vitality.
• "Fair" (יָפֶה, yafeh) and "Countenance" (מַרְאֶה, mareh): Together, these words mean David had a pleasing or attractive appearance. The focus is on how David looked gentle or handsome, not like a warrior.

Why 1 Samuel 17:42 matters

• This verse shows how Goliath underestimated David based on outward appearance, which is a key theme in the story—God’s choice is not based on what people see.
• The description of David as young and good-looking highlights the unlikely nature of his victory, making the outcome even more striking.
• By showing Goliath’s contempt, the verse sets up the dramatic reversal that follows, where the seemingly weak David defeats the mighty warrior.