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1 Samuel 17:6

1 Samuel 17:6 in Multiple Translations

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

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

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

His legs were covered with plates of brass and hanging on his back was a javelin of brass.

On his legs he wore bronze armor, and he carried a javelin slung between his shoulders.

And he had bootes of brasse vpon his legs, and a shield of brasse vpon his shoulders.

and a frontlet of brass [is] on his feet, and a javelin of brass between his shoulders,

He had bronze shin armor on his legs and a bronze javelin between his shoulders.

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

And he had greaves of brass on his legs, and a buckler of brass covered his shoulders.

He wore bronze guards/protectors on his legs. He had a long bronze dagger fastened on his back.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 17:6

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 17:6 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB וּ/מִצְחַ֥ת נְחֹ֖שֶׁת עַל רַגְלָ֑י/ו וְ/כִיד֥וֹן נְחֹ֖שֶׁת בֵּ֥ין כְּתֵפָֽי/ו
וּ/מִצְחַ֥ת mitschâh H4697 greave Conj | N-fs
נְחֹ֖שֶׁת nᵉchôsheth H5178 bronze N-fs
עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep
רַגְלָ֑י/ו regel H7272 foot N-fd | Suff
וְ/כִיד֥וֹן kîydôwn H3591 javelin Conj | N-ms
נְחֹ֖שֶׁת nᵉchôsheth H5178 bronze N-fs
בֵּ֥ין bêyn H996 between Prep
כְּתֵפָֽי/ו kâthêph H3802 shoulder N-fd | Suff
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 17:6

וּ/מִצְחַ֥ת mitschâh H4697 "greave" Conj | N-fs
A type of armor that protects the shin, prominent and only used in plural form. In the Bible, greaves are part of a soldier's armor, like in 1 Samuel 17:6. They are used for battle.
Definition: greave(s), leg armour
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: greaves. See also: 1 Samuel 17:6.
נְחֹ֖שֶׁת nᵉchôsheth H5178 "bronze" N-fs
This Hebrew word refers to copper or something made of it, like a coin or chain. It can also symbolize something base or impure, as in lust or filthiness. It appears in various KJV translations, including brasen and brass.
Definition: 1) copper, bronze 1a) copper (ore), bronze (as copper alloy) 1b) fetters (of copper or bronze) 1c) copper (as value)
Usage: Occurs in 119 OT verses. KJV: brasen, brass, chain, copper, fetter (of brass), filthiness, steel. See also: Genesis 4:22; 1 Kings 7:38; Psalms 107:16.
עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
רַגְלָ֑י/ו regel H7272 "foot" N-fd | Suff
This word also means a foot, like when God says he will tread on the wicked in Malachi 4:3. It's used to describe human and animal feet, as well as the base of objects like tables or idols.
Definition: 1) foot 1a) foot, leg 1b) of God (anthropomorphic) 1c) of seraphim, cherubim, idols, animals, table 1d) according to the pace of (with prep) 1e) three times (feet, paces) Aramaic equivalent: re.gal (רְגַל "foot" H7271)
Usage: Occurs in 232 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] be able to endure, [idiom] according as, [idiom] after, [idiom] coming, [idiom] follow, (broken-)foot(-ed, -stool), [idiom] great toe, [idiom] haunt, [idiom] journey, leg, [phrase] piss, [phrase] possession, time. See also: Genesis 8:9; 2 Samuel 22:39; Psalms 8:7.
וְ/כִיד֥וֹן kîydôwn H3591 "javelin" Conj | N-ms
A javelin is a type of spear or dart used for throwing. In the Bible, it's also used to describe a piece of armor that protects the throat. Goliath wore one before fighting David.
Definition: 1) javelin, short sword, dart 2) gorget, a piece of armour for the throat (1Sa 17.6)
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: lance, shield, spear, target. See also: Joshua 8:18; Job 39:23; Jeremiah 6:23.
נְחֹ֖שֶׁת nᵉchôsheth H5178 "bronze" N-fs
This Hebrew word refers to copper or something made of it, like a coin or chain. It can also symbolize something base or impure, as in lust or filthiness. It appears in various KJV translations, including brasen and brass.
Definition: 1) copper, bronze 1a) copper (ore), bronze (as copper alloy) 1b) fetters (of copper or bronze) 1c) copper (as value)
Usage: Occurs in 119 OT verses. KJV: brasen, brass, chain, copper, fetter (of brass), filthiness, steel. See also: Genesis 4:22; 1 Kings 7:38; Psalms 107:16.
בֵּ֥ין bêyn H996 "between" Prep
Between is the meaning of this preposition, used to show a location or a choice, like either or, as seen in Exodus where it describes the space between two objects.
Definition: : between between, among, in the midst of (with other preps), from between
Usage: Occurs in 248 OT verses. KJV: among, asunder, at, between (-twixt...and), [phrase] from (the widest), [idiom] in, out of, whether (it be...or), within. See also: Genesis 1:4; Joshua 24:7; Psalms 68:14.
כְּתֵפָֽי/ו kâthêph H3802 "shoulder" N-fd | Suff
The Hebrew word for shoulder describes the upper end of the arm, where garments hang, and is used in Exodus 28:7 to describe the shoulder pieces of the ephod.
Definition: 1) shoulder, shoulder-blade, side, slope 1a) shoulder, shoulder-blade (of man) 1b) shoulder, shoulder-pieces (of animals) 1c) side, slope (of mountain) 1d) supports (of laver)
Usage: Occurs in 58 OT verses. KJV: arm, corner, shoulder(-piece), side, undersetter. See also: Exodus 27:14; 2 Kings 11:11; Isaiah 11:14.

Study Notes — 1 Samuel 17:6

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 1 Samuel 17:45 But David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
2 2 Chronicles 9:15 King Solomon made two hundred large shields of hammered gold; six hundred shekels of hammered gold went into each shield.
3 1 Kings 10:16 King Solomon made two hundred large shields of hammered gold; six hundred shekels of gold went into each shield.

1 Samuel 17:6 Summary

[This verse describes Goliath's armor, which was made of bronze and included armor on his legs and a javelin on his back. This armor made Goliath seem like a powerful and intimidating warrior, but as we see in the rest of the story, God is more powerful than any human armor, as David trusted in Him and defeated Goliath with just a stone and a sling, as seen in 1 Samuel 17:49-51. The Bible teaches us to trust in God's power and provision, rather than our own strength and abilities, as seen in passages like Psalm 28:7 and Ephesians 6:16. By trusting in God, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges, just like David did.]

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Bible describe Goliath's armor in such detail?

The description of Goliath's armor serves to emphasize his imposing presence and the perceived impossibility of defeating him, highlighting God's power and providence in the subsequent battle, as seen in 1 Samuel 17:45-47

What kind of armor did Goliath have on his legs?

According to 1 Samuel 17:6, Goliath had armor of bronze on his legs, which was part of his extensive bronze armor, including a helmet and coat of mail, as described in 1 Samuel 17:5

What is the significance of the javelin slung between Goliath's shoulders?

The javelin slung between Goliath's shoulders, as mentioned in 1 Samuel 17:6, indicates that he was prepared for battle and ready to attack, but ultimately, it was no match for God's power and the faith of David, as seen in 1 Samuel 17:49-51

How does Goliath's armor compare to other biblical accounts of armor?

Goliath's armor is similar to the armor described in other biblical accounts, such as the armor of King Saul in 1 Samuel 17:38-39, but the emphasis on bronze and the extent of the armor highlights Goliath's unique status as a giant and a formidable warrior

Reflection Questions

  1. What are the 'armors' that I put my trust in, and how do they compare to God's power and providence?
  2. In what ways can I, like David, trust in God's power and provision, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges?
  3. How does the description of Goliath's armor in this verse relate to the broader theme of faith and trust in God, as seen in passages like Psalm 28:7 and Ephesians 6:16?
  4. What are some areas in my life where I need to trust in God's power and provision, rather than my own strength and abilities?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 17:6

And he had greaves of brass upon his legs,.... Which were a sort of boots, or leg harnesses, which covered the thighs and legs down to the heels; such as Iolaus (k) and the Grecians usually wore, as

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 17:6

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

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:6

1 Samuel 17:6 And [he had] greaves of brass upon his legs, and a target of brass between his shoulders. Ver. 6. And he had greaves (or leg-harness) of brass.] So that he was substantially armed cap-a-pie, as they say, and might seem to be a walking armory.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:6

Verse 6. Greaves of brass upon his legs] This species of armour may be seen on many ancient monuments. It was a plate of brass (though perhaps sometimes formed of laminae or plates, like the mail) which covered the shin or fore part of the leg, from the knee down to the instep, and was buckled with straps behind the leg. From ancient monuments we find that it was commonly worn only on one leg. VEGETIUS, de Re Militari, says, Pedites Scutati etiam ferreas ocreas in dextris cruribus copebantur accipere. "The foot soldiers, called Scutati, from their particular species of shield, were obliged to use iron greaves on their right legs." One of these may be seen in the monument of the gladiator Buto, in Montfaucon; and another in the Mosaic pavement at Bognor, in Surrey. A target of brass between his shoulders.] When not actually engaged, soldiers threw their shields behind their back, so that they appeared to rest or hang between the shoulders. There are different opinions concerning this piece of armour, called here כידון kidon. Some think it was a covering for the shoulders; others, that it was a javelin or dart; others, that it was a lance; some, a club; and others, a sword. It is certainly distinguished from the shield, 1 Samuel 17:41, and is translated a spear, Joshua 8:18.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 17:6

6. greaves] Armour for the legs and feet: from Fr. grève, ‘the shin.’ “Greaves” from the Assyrian monuments are figured in Layard’s Nineveh II. 337. The following passage from Philemon Holland’s translation of Pliny’s Nat. Hist. VII. 20, quoted in the Bible Word-Book, illustrates both the matter and the language: “My selfe haue seene one named Athanatus do wonderful strange matters in the open shew and face of the world, namely to walke his stations vpon the stage with a cuirace of lead weighing 500 pound [= 360 lbs. avoirdupois], booted besides with a pair of buskins or greiues (cothurni) about his legges that came to as much in weight.” brass] The word translated brass means copper in such passages as Deuteronomy 8:9, where a natural metal is spoken of. In some instances the compound metal bronze (copper and tin) may be meant, but brass (copper and zinc) was unknown to the ancients. a target] Rather, a javelin, which was slung across his shoulders, as the Greeks sometimes carried their swords (Hom. Il. II. 45).Roman soldiers were often similarly armed with both pilum (javelin) and hasta (spear). The E. V. follows the Sept. and Vulg. in rendering “target,” i.e. a kind of small shield. The marginal rendering “gorget,” = “a piece of armour for the throat,” from Fr. gorge, has nothing in its favour.

Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 17:6

A target ... - Rather, “a javelin.” as in 1 Samuel 17:45, and placed between the shoulders, as the quiver was.

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 17:6

6. Greaves of brass upon his legs — Rather, upon his feet. These were shin covers bound by thongs around and above the ankles. Among the ancient Greeks they were elastic behind, and extended upward above the knees.

Sermons on 1 Samuel 17:6

SermonDescription
Carter Conlon A Word for Those Who Want to Know God by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of Daniel and how it relates to our modern times. He highlights Daniel's prophecy about an increase in travel and knowledge in the l
Carter Conlon The Devil Is After One Thing in Your Trial by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having God's word deeply rooted within us to resist the devices of darkness. They rebuke depression and lies of the devil,
Bakht Singh 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
Zac Poonen (Through the Bible) 1 Samuel by Zac Poonen This sermon delves into the contrasting lives of Saul and David in the book of 1 Samuel. It highlights Saul's downfall due to disobedience, fear of people, lack of repentance, and
Carter Conlon The Necessity of Weakness by Carter Conlon This sermon emphasizes the necessity of weakness in the Christian walk, drawing from the life of the apostle Paul and the story of David and Goliath. It highlights how God's streng
Keith Daniel Perfect Love by Keith Daniel This sermon emphasizes the perfect love that casts out fear, highlighting the importance of dwelling in God's love and trusting in His power. It delves into the story of David and
G.W. North Making a King by G.W. North In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a living representation of the word of God. He criticizes the idea of relying on physical objects or books to show pe

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