1 Samuel 17:40
1 Samuel 17:40 in Multiple Translations
And David took his staff in his hand, selected five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag. And with his sling in hand, he approached the Philistine.
And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.
And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in the shepherd’s bag which he had, even in his wallet; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.
Then he took his stick in his hand, and got five smooth stones from the bed of the stream and put them in a bag such as is used by sheep-keepers; and in his hand was a leather band used for sending stones: and so he went in the direction of the Philistine.
He picked up his stick, chose five smooth stones from the stream, and put them in his shepherd's bag. Carrying his sling in his hand, he approached the Philistine.
Then tooke he his staffe in his hand, and chose him fiue smoothe stones out of a brooke, and put them in his shepheards bagge or skrippe, and his sling was in his hand, and he drewe neere to the Philistim.
And he taketh his staff in his hand, and chooseth for him five smooth stones from the brook, and putteth them in the shepherds' habiliments that he hath, even in the scrip, and his sling [is] in his hand, and he draweth nigh unto the Philistine.
He took his staff in his hand, and chose for himself five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag which he had. His sling was in his hand; and he came near to the Philistine.
And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand; and he drew near to the Philistine.
And he took his staff, which he had always in his hands: and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them into the shepherd’s scrip, which he had with him, and he took a sling in his hand, and went forth against the Philistine.
Then he took his walking/shepherd’s stick, and he picked up five smooth stones from the brook/stream. He put them in the pouch of his shoulder-bag. Then he put his sling in his hand and started walking toward Goliath.
He got his walking stick and his thing for throwing stones, called a sling, and he went down to the creek. He picked up 5 smooth stones, and he put them in his bag. Then he walked up towards that Philistia man.
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 17:40
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
1 Samuel 17:40 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יִּקַּ֨ח
מַקְל֜/וֹ
בְּ/יָד֗/וֹ
וַ/יִּבְחַר
ל֣/וֹ
חֲמִשָּׁ֣ה
חַלֻּקֵֽי
אֲבָנִ֣ים
מִן
הַ/נַּ֡חַל
וַ/יָּ֣שֶׂם
אֹ֠תָ/ם
בִּ/כְלִ֨י
הָ/רֹעִ֧ים
אֲשֶׁר
ל֛/וֹ
וּ/בַ/יַּלְק֖וּט
וְ/קַלְּע֣/וֹ
בְ/יָד֑/וֹ
וַ/יִּגַּ֖שׁ
אֶל
הַ/פְּלִשְׁתִּֽי
וַ/יִּקַּ֨ח
lâqach
H3947
to take
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
מַקְל֜/וֹ
maqqêl
H4731
rod
N-ms | Suff
בְּ/יָד֗/וֹ
yâd
H3027
hand
Prep | N-cs | Suff
וַ/יִּבְחַר
bâchar
H977
to choose
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
ל֣/וֹ
Prep | Suff
חֲמִשָּׁ֣ה
châmêsh
H2568
five
Adj
חַלֻּקֵֽי
challuq
H2512
smooth
Adj
אֲבָנִ֣ים
ʼeben
H68
stone
N-fp
מִן
min
H4480
from
Prep
הַ/נַּ֡חַל
nachal
H5158
Brook
Art | N-ms
וַ/יָּ֣שֶׂם
sûwm
H7760
to set
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֹ֠תָ/ם
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM | Suff
בִּ/כְלִ֨י
kᵉlîy
H3627
article/utensil
Prep | N-ms
הָ/רֹעִ֧ים
râʻâh
H7462
House of Shepherds
Art | V-Qal
אֲשֶׁר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
ל֛/וֹ
Prep | Suff
וּ/בַ/יַּלְק֖וּט
yalqûwṭ
H3219
pouch
Conj | Prep | N-ms
וְ/קַלְּע֣/וֹ
qelaʻ
H7050
sling
Conj | N-ms | Suff
בְ/יָד֑/וֹ
yâd
H3027
hand
Prep | N-cs | Suff
וַ/יִּגַּ֖שׁ
nâgash
H5066
to approach
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
הַ/פְּלִשְׁתִּֽי
Pᵉlishtîy
H6430
Philistines
Art | Ngmsa
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 17:40
וַ/יִּקַּ֨ח
lâqach
H3947
"to take"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.
Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)
Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.
מַקְל֜/וֹ
maqqêl
H4731
"rod"
N-ms | Suff
A rod or staff, like a walking stick, is used for support or guidance in the Bible, as seen in Exodus with Moses' staff. It can also be a symbol of authority. The word appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: 1) rod, staff 1a) rod, stick 1b) staff (in travel) 1c) wand (of diviner)
Usage: Occurs in 16 OT verses. KJV: rod, (hand-)staff. See also: Genesis 30:37; 1 Samuel 17:43; Jeremiah 1:11.
בְּ/יָד֗/וֹ
yâd
H3027
"hand"
Prep | N-cs | Suff
In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.
Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists
Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.
וַ/יִּבְחַר
bâchar
H977
"to choose"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To choose or select is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which appears in Deuteronomy. It can also mean to be chosen or elected. The KJV translates it as 'choose' or 'acceptable'.
Definition: 1) to choose, elect, decide for 1a) (Qal) to choose 1b) (Niphal) to be chosen 1c) (Pual) to be chosen, selected
Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: acceptable, appoint, choose (choice), excellent, join, be rather, require. See also: Genesis 6:2; 2 Kings 23:27; Psalms 25:12.
ל֣/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
חֲמִשָּׁ֣ה
châmêsh
H2568
"five"
Adj
This Hebrew word simply means the number five. It is used throughout the Bible to describe quantities of five, such as five loaves of bread in Matthew 14:17. It can also mean a multiple of five.
Definition: 1) five 1a) five (cardinal number) 1b) a multiple of five (with another number) 1c) fifth (ordinal number)
Usage: Occurs in 272 OT verses. KJV: fif(-teen), fifth, five ([idiom] apiece). See also: Genesis 5:6; Numbers 31:45; Ezra 2:66.
חַלֻּקֵֽי
challuq
H2512
"smooth"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means something that is smooth, often referring to physical objects or surfaces. It is used to describe things that are free from roughness or obstacles. This word appears in various contexts, including descriptions of landscapes.
Definition: smooth
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: smooth. See also: 1 Samuel 17:40.
אֲבָנִ֣ים
ʼeben
H68
"stone"
N-fp
In the Bible, this word refers to a stone, which could be a rock, a weight, or even a precious gem. It is used to describe a variety of objects, from building materials to hailstones. The KJV translates it as stone or weight.
Definition: : weight 1) stone (large or small) 1a) common stone (in natural state) 1b) stone, as material 1b1) of tablets 1b2) marble, hewn stones 1c) precious stones, stones of fire 1d) stones containing metal (ore), tool for work or weapon 1e) weight 1f) plummet (stones of destruction) also made of metal 1g) stonelike objects, eg hailstones, stony heart, ice 1h) sacred object, as memorial Samuel set up to mark where God helped Israel to defeat the Philistines 1i) (simile) 1i1) sinking in water, motionlessness 1i2) strength, firmness, solidity 1i3) commonness 1j) (metaph) 1j1) petrified with terror 1j2) perverse, hard heart
Usage: Occurs in 239 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carbuncle, [phrase] mason, [phrase] plummet, (chalk-, hail-, head-, sling-) stone(-ny), (divers) weight(-s). See also: Genesis 2:12; 1 Samuel 6:15; Psalms 91:12.
מִן
min
H4480
"from"
Prep
This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.
Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)
Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.
הַ/נַּ֡חַל
nachal
H5158
"Brook"
Art | N-ms
The Hebrew word for a brook or stream, often referring to a small river or valley, is used in the Bible to describe natural landscapes, such as the Brook Kidron in 2 Samuel 15:23. It can also refer to a narrow valley or a shaft of a mine, emphasizing the idea of a flowing body of water.
Definition: palm-tree Another name of shi.chor (שִׁיחוֹר "Shihor" H7883G)
Usage: Occurs in 123 OT verses. KJV: brook, flood, river, stream, valley. See also: Genesis 26:17; 1 Kings 18:5; Psalms 18:5.
וַ/יָּ֣שֶׂם
sûwm
H7760
"to set"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to put or place something, and is used in many different ways in the Bible, such as to appoint or determine something. It is first used in Genesis to describe God's creation. In the KJV, it is translated as 'appoint' or 'set' in various contexts.
Definition: : make/establish 1) to put, place, set, appoint, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put, set, lay, put or lay upon, lay (violent) hands on 1a2) to set, direct, direct toward 1a2a) to extend (compassion) (fig) 1a3) to set, ordain, establish, found, appoint, constitute, make, determine, fix 1a4) to set, station, put, set in place, plant, fix 1a5) to make, make for, transform into, constitute, fashion, work, bring to pass, appoint, give 1b) (Hiphil) to set or make for a sign 1c) (Hophal) to be set
Usage: Occurs in 550 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring, call (a name), care, cast in, change, charge, commit, consider, convey, determine, [phrase] disguise, dispose, do, get, give, heap up, hold, impute, lay (down, up), leave, look, make (out), mark, [phrase] name, [idiom] on, ordain, order, [phrase] paint, place, preserve, purpose, put (on), [phrase] regard, rehearse, reward, (cause to) set (on, up), shew, [phrase] stedfastly, take, [idiom] tell, [phrase] tread down, (over-)turn, [idiom] wholly, work. See also: Genesis 2:8; Leviticus 20:5; 1 Samuel 21:13.
אֹ֠תָ/ם
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM | Suff
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
בִּ/כְלִ֨י
kᵉlîy
H3627
"article/utensil"
Prep | N-ms
This Hebrew word refers to any object or tool, like a utensil or a piece of furniture. It is used to describe a wide range of items, from musical instruments to weapons. It emphasizes the object's purpose or function.
Definition: 1) article, vessel, implement, utensil 1a) article, object (general) 1b) utensil, implement, apparatus, vessel 1b1) implement (of hunting or war) 1b2) implement (of music) 1b3) implement, tool (of labour) 1b4) equipment, yoke (of oxen) 1b5) utensils, furniture 1c) vessel, receptacle (general) 1d) vessels (boats) of paper-reed
Usage: Occurs in 276 OT verses. KJV: armour(-bearer), artillery, bag, carriage, [phrase] furnish, furniture, instrument, jewel, that is made of, [idiom] one from another, that which pertaineth, pot, [phrase] psaltery, sack, stuff, thing, tool, vessel, ware, weapon, [phrase] whatsoever. See also: Genesis 24:53; 1 Samuel 14:13; Ezra 8:26.
הָ/רֹעִ֧ים
râʻâh
H7462
"House of Shepherds"
Art | V-Qal
This verb means to care for or tend to someone or something, like a shepherd with his flock. It can also mean to rule over or associate with someone as a friend, and is sometimes used to describe a close relationship.
Definition: Ra'ah = "pasturing" perh. "binding-house of the shepherds"
Usage: Occurs in 139 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, [phrase] shearing house, shepherd, wander, waste. See also: Genesis 4:2; Isaiah 40:11; Psalms 23:1.
אֲשֶׁר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
ל֛/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
וּ/בַ/יַּלְק֖וּט
yalqûwṭ
H3219
"pouch"
Conj | Prep | N-ms
A travelling pouch, like a wallet or purse, used to carry things while on a journey, as seen in the Bible where disciples carried a scrip.
Definition: wallet, purse, pouch, bag, receptacle
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: scrip. See also: 1 Samuel 17:40.
וְ/קַלְּע֣/וֹ
qelaʻ
H7050
"sling"
Conj | N-ms | Suff
A curtain or hanging screen is what this word describes, like the ones used in the tabernacle or Solomon's temple to separate sacred spaces.
Definition: sling, slingstones
Usage: Occurs in 22 OT verses. KJV: hanging, leaf, sling. See also: Exodus 27:9; Exodus 38:18; Zechariah 9:15.
בְ/יָד֑/וֹ
yâd
H3027
"hand"
Prep | N-cs | Suff
In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.
Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists
Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.
וַ/יִּגַּ֖שׁ
nâgash
H5066
"to approach"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To approach or draw near, like Moses to the burning bush, and can also mean to worship or present an argument, as in Genesis 18:23.
Definition: : approach 1) to draw near, approach 1a) (Qal) to draw or come near 1a1) of humans 1a1a) of sexual intercourse 1a2) of inanimate subject 1a2a) to approach one another 1b) (Niphal) to draw near 1c) (Hiphil) to cause to approach, bring near, bring 1d) (Hophal) to be brought near 1e) (Hithpael) to draw near Also means: na.gash (נָגַשׁ ": bring" H5066H)
Usage: Occurs in 112 OT verses. KJV: (make to) approach (nigh), bring (forth, hither, near), (cause to) come (hither, near, nigh), give place, go hard (up), (be, draw, go) near (nigh), offer, overtake, present, put, stand. See also: Genesis 18:23; 1 Samuel 28:25; Psalms 91:7.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
הַ/פְּלִשְׁתִּֽי
Pᵉlishtîy
H6430
"Philistines"
Art | Ngmsa
A Philistine is a person from the region of Philistia, which was inhabited by immigrants from other places. The Philistines were known for their conflicts with the Israelites, as recorded in the Bible. They were a distinct ethnic group.
Definition: Philistine = "immigrants" an inhabitant of Philistia; descendants of Mizraim who immigrated from Caphtor (Crete?) to the western seacoast of Canaan Another name of ga.dol (גָּדוֹל "Great( Sea)" H1419J)
Usage: Occurs in 244 OT verses. KJV: Philistine. See also: Genesis 10:14; 1 Samuel 17:8; 1 Chronicles 10:1.
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 17:40
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- Context
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- 1 Samuel 17:40 Summary
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- Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 17:40
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 17:40
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
- Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
- Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
- Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 17:40
- Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
- Sermons on 1 Samuel 17:40
Context — David Slays Goliath
38Then Saul clothed David in his own tunic, put a bronze helmet on his head, and dressed him in armor.
39David strapped his sword over the tunic and tried to walk, but he was not accustomed to them. “I cannot walk in these,” David said to Saul. “I am not accustomed to them.” So David took them off.
40And David took his staff in his hand, selected five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag. And with his sling in hand, he approached the Philistine.
41Now the Philistine came closer and closer to David, with his shield-bearer before him. 42When the Philistine looked and saw David, he despised him because he was just a boy, ruddy and handsome.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Corinthians 1:27–29 | But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly and despised things of the world, and the things that are not, to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast in His presence. |
| 2 | Matthew 10:10 | Take no bag for the road, or second tunic, or sandals, or staff; for the worker is worthy of his provisions. |
| 3 | Judges 15:15–16 | He found the fresh jawbone of a donkey, reached out his hand and took it, and struck down a thousand men. Then Samson said: “With the jawbone of a donkey I have piled them into heaps. With the jawbone of a donkey I have slain a thousand men.” |
| 4 | Judges 20:16 | Among all these soldiers there were 700 select left-handers, each of whom could sling a stone at a hair without missing. |
| 5 | Judges 3:31 | After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath. And he too saved Israel, striking down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad. |
| 6 | Judges 7:16–20 | And he divided the three hundred men into three companies and gave each man a ram’s horn in one hand and a large jar in the other, containing a torch. “Watch me and do as I do,” Gideon said. “When I come to the outskirts of the camp, do exactly as I do. When I and all who are with me blow our horns, then you are also to blow your horns from all around the camp and shout, ‘For the LORD and for Gideon!’” Gideon and the hundred men with him reached the outskirts of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, just after the changing of the guard. They blew their horns and broke the jars that were in their hands. The three companies blew their horns and shattered their jars. Holding the torches in their left hands and the horns in their right hands, they shouted, “A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!” |
1 Samuel 17:40 Summary
In 1 Samuel 17:40, David shows us what it means to trust in God and not in our own strength. He takes his simple shepherd's staff, selects five smooth stones, and approaches the giant Philistine, trusting that God will deliver him. This is similar to how Jesus taught us to trust in God's provision, as stated in Matthew 6:25-34. By trusting in God, David is able to defeat the giant, and we can learn from his example to trust in God's power and provision in our own lives, just as it is written in Psalm 20:7, 'Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.'
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did David choose to use stones and a sling instead of the armor and sword offered by Saul?
David chose to use stones and a sling because he was not accustomed to wearing armor and using a sword, as seen in 1 Samuel 17:39, and instead trusted in his simple, yet effective, shepherd's tools, similar to how Jesus taught that we should not worry about what we will eat or wear, as stated in Matthew 6:25-34.
What is the significance of David selecting five smooth stones from the brook?
The selection of five smooth stones from the brook may symbolize David's preparation and trust in God, as he had faith that God would guide his actions, much like how God guided the actions of other biblical figures, such as Moses in Exodus 4:2-4.
How does David's approach to the Philistine reflect his faith in God?
David's approach to the Philistine, armed with only his staff, sling, and stones, demonstrates his faith in God, as he trusted that God would deliver him, just as God had delivered him from the lion and the bear, as mentioned in 1 Samuel 17:34-37.
What can we learn from David's decision to rely on his simple, everyday tools instead of the armor and sword?
We can learn that God often uses the simple and ordinary things in our lives to accomplish great things, just as He used David's sling and stones to defeat the giant Goliath, and that we should trust in His power and provision, rather than our own strength and abilities, as seen in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.
Reflection Questions
- What are the 'stones' in my life that I can use to trust in God and defeat the giants that I face?
- How can I, like David, trust in God's power and provision, even when faced with overwhelming challenges?
- What are some areas in my life where I am trying to rely on my own strength and abilities, rather than trusting in God's power and provision?
- How can I apply the lesson of David's faith and trust in God to my own life, and what steps can I take to deepen my trust in Him?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 17:40
And he took his staff in his hand,.... His shepherd's staff, which he used in keeping his father's sheep, and chose rather to appear in the habit of a shepherd than of a soldier: and chose him five
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 17:40
And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
His staff; his shepherd’ s staff. These arms were in themselves contemptible, yet chosen by David; partly, because he had no skill to use other arms; partly, because he had inward assurance of the victory, even by these weapons; and partly, because such a conquest would be most honourable to God, and most shameful and discouraging to the Philistines. Chose him five smooth stones, that if one should fail him, he might make use of another. Smooth stones, because such stones would go most freely out of the sling; and consequently, with more force and certainty, directly to the mark which he aimed at. The sling was a sort of weapon not unusual in the fights of ancient times, and many arrived at great dexterity of slinging stones with great certainty; of which we have instances both in Scripture, as , and in Diodorus Siculus, and Livy, and other authors.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
1 Samuel 17:40 And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’ s bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling [was] in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.Ver. 40. And he took his staff in his hand.] His pedum pastorale sive agolum: so Festus calleth the shepherd’ s crook, ab agendis pecoribus, a poor weapon against such an antagonist. Veritas etiam indefensa est invicta: et arma victorioe eius sunt inermis patientia, bona causa, et bona conscientia. “ Qua mens plena fide sit prece iuncta Deo. ” Even in a scrip.] Such as shepherds use, ut in ea reculas suas recordant, to put their small doings in. Bucholcer.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
(40) And he took his staff in his hand.—It was a true stroke of military genius in David, this determination of his to fight only with the weapons, weak and unimportant though they seemed, with which he was familiar, and in the use of which he was so skilful; nor was the issue of the combat, now he had resolved to use the sling, even doubtful. It has been well said he was like one armed with a rifle, while his enemy had only a spear and a sword, and if only he could take sure aim the result was absolutely certain. Wordsworth, again, on the words “chose him five smooth stones out of the brook,” refers to Augustine’s Commentary, who finds here a deep mystical signification. It is an admirable specimen of the Patristic School of Exposition, which, although quaint, and not unfrequently “far-fetched,” will always, and with good reason, possess great power over the minds of the earnest and devout student. “So our Divine David, the Good Shepherd of Bethlehem, when He went forth at the temptation to meet Satan—our ghostly Goliath—chose five stones out of the brook. He took the five books of Moses out of the flowing stream of Judaism. He took what was solid out of what was fluid. He took what was permanent out of what was transitory. He took what was moral and perpetual out of what was ceremonial and temporary. He took stones out of a brook, and with one of these He overthrew Satan. All Christ’s answers to the tempter are moral precepts, taken from one Book of the Law (Deuteronomy), and He prefaced His replies with the same words, ‘It is written;’ and with this sling and stone of Scripture He laid our Goliath low, and He has taught us by His example how we may also vanquish the tempter.” (See St.
Augustine, Sermon 32)
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
Verse 40. He took his staff] What we would call his crook. Five smooth stones] 1. Had they been rough or angular, they would not have passed easily through the air, and their asperities would, in the course of their passage, have given them a false direction. 2. Had they not been smooth, they could not have been readily despatched from the sling. A shepherd's bag] That in which he generally carried his provisions while keeping the sheep in the open country. And his sling] The sling, both among the Greeks and Hebrews, has been a powerful offensive weapon. See what has been said on Judges 20:16. It is composed of two strings and a leathern strap; the strap is in the middle, and is the place where the stone or bullet lies. The string on the right end of the strap is firmly fastened to the hand; that on the left is held between the thumb and middle joint of the fore finger.
It is then whirled two or three times round the head; and when discharged, the finger and thumb let go their hold of the left end string. The velocity and force of the sling are in proportion to the distance of the strap, where the bullet lies, from the shoulder joint. Hence the ancient Baleares, or inhabitants of Majorca and Minorca, are said to have had three slings of different lengths, the longest they used when the enemy was at the greatest distance; the middle one, on their nearer approach; and the shortest, when they came into the ordinary fighting distance in the field. The shortest is the most certain, though not the most powerful. The Balearians are said to have had one of their slings constantly bound about their head, to have used the second as a girdle, and to have carried the third always in their hand. See DIOD. Sic. lib. v., c. 18, p. 286, edit. Bipont. In the use of the sling it requires much practice to hit the mark; but when once this dexterity is acquired, the sling is nearly as fatal as the musket or bow; see on 1 Samuel 17:49. David was evidently an expert marksman; and his sling gave him greatly the advantage over Goliath; an advantage of which the giant does not seem to have been aware.
He could hit him within any speaking distance, if he missed once, he had as many chances as he had stones; and after all, being unencumbered with armour, young, and athletic, he could have saved his life by flight. Against him the Philistine could do but little, except in close fight; it is true he appears to have had a javelin or missile spear, (see on 1 Samuel 17:6), but David took care to prevent the use of all such weapons, by giving him the first blow.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 17:40
40. five smooth stones out of the brook] “The sides and bed of this trench [see above on 1 Samuel 17:3] are strewn with rounded and water-worn pebbles, which would have been well fitted for David’s sling.” Conder, II. 161. scrip] A small bag, especially a traveller’s wallet. Cp. Matthew 10:10; and Milton, Comus, 1. 626, “And in requital ope his leathern scrip.”his sling] “The sling has been in ail ages the favourite weapon of the shepherds of Syria. The Benjamites were especially expert In their use of it: even the left-handed could sling stones at an hair and not miss (Judges 20:16).”
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:40
40. Smooth stones — Such as would pass most easily and rapidly through the air. The torrent bed of the Wady es-Sumt is said to be lined with smooth pebbles. A scrip — A pouch; a knapsack.
Sermons on 1 Samuel 17:40
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Seven Bible Valleys by Jack Hyles | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding joy and delight in life and in church. They acknowledge that suffering and loneliness are also part of life, but th |
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The Discipline of Disdain - 23 by Jack Hibbs | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of listening and being slow to speak and anger. He highlights the need to trust in God during times of shaking and suffering. |
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Five Stones - Part 1 by Bakht Singh | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of David and Goliath from the Bible. He emphasizes that this story is not just a familiar tale, but a love story that is often tol |
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Spiritual Warfare - Part 1 by David Ravenhill | This sermon discusses the concept of dealing with spiritual warfare in high places, whether through physical actions like flying planes to high altitudes or climbing mountains to c |
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"To the Jew first..." by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of considering the Jewish people as central to the church's mission. He argues that neglecting the Jews not only harms them bu |
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If Any Man Be in Christ - Part 1 (Cd Quality) by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher starts by discussing the story of Paul's shipwreck and how he cast four anchors into the sea when all hope seemed lost. He then shares a personal anecd |
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"Embarrassment to a Holy God" by Leonard Ravenhill | This sermon challenges the modern Church to reflect on the early Christians who, despite lacking grand resources or platforms, were able to turn the world upside down with their fa |