גׇּלְיַת (gol.yat)
gol.yat
Goliath
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name גּלְיַת, transliterated as Goliath, refers to the famous Philistine champion from Gath who was slain by David (1 Samuel 17:4). Lexical sources suggest the name may mean "splendour" or "conspicuous," fitting for a warrior known for his imposing stature and heavy armor. He is identified as the son of Rapha, linking him to a lineage of giants in Philistine territory.
Although the word appears only five times in Scripture, its impact is disproportionate to its frequency. The accounts in 1 Samuel 17, 2 Samuel 21:19, and 1 Chronicles 20:5 consistently portray him as a symbol of overwhelming military power that God dismantles through unexpected means. His defeat by a young shepherd with a sling established David’s reputation and highlighted the theme that divine strength often overcomes human might.
Translators typically retain the proper name Goliath rather than translating it, preserving the historical identity of this specific figure. The narrative surrounding him serves as a concrete example of faith in action, where physical disadvantage is reversed by trust in God’s intervention.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Goliath represents more than just a historical figure; it stands for any obstacle that seems too large to overcome. When David faced this champion, he did not rely on his own strength or armor but on trust in God’s protection. This story reminds us that the challenges we face today may feel just as daunting, yet they are not beyond the reach of divine help.
We often look at our problems and see only their size, much like the Israelites saw Goliath’s height. Yet Scripture shows that faith turns these giants into opportunities for God to display His power. You do not need heavy armor or human strength to stand firm; you only need a heart willing to trust.
Whether your struggle feels small or overwhelming, remember that the same God who helped David is with you. He does not measure victory by human standards but by faithfulness. Let this truth bring you peace, knowing that no burden is too heavy for His care.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Goliath3×
- [was] Goliath2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- גָּלְיָ֥ת2×
- גָּלְיָ֣ת2×
- גָּלְיָת֩1×
Key Verses
-
I Samuel 17:4
A champion out of the camp of the Philistines named Goliath of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span went out.
This verse introduces Goliath’s imposing stature and origin, establishing the magnitude of the threat David faced.
-
I Samuel 17:23
As he talked with them, behold, the champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, came up out of the ranks of the Philistines, and said the same words; and David heard them.
Here David hears the taunt directly, which prompts his response and sets the stage for the confrontation that defines faith over fear.
-
II Samuel 21:19
There was again war with the Philistines at Gob, and Elhanan the son of Jaare-Oregim the Bethlehemite killed Goliath the Gittite’s brother, the staff of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam.
This passage clarifies a historical detail by noting that Elhanan killed Goliath’s brother, showing how the legacy of this giant’s defeat extended beyond David.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Goliath mean?
Who killed Goliath?
Why is Goliath important in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 3 books)
I Samuel 3 verses
A champion out of the camp of the Philistines named Goliath of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span went out.
I Samuel 17:23As he talked with them, behold, the champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, came up out of the ranks of the…
I Samuel 22:10He inquired of Yahweh for him, gave him food, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine.”