The Scale of the Giant
"A champion named Goliath, who was from Gath, came out of the Philistine camp. His height was six cubits and a span."
Biblical Specifications
The Hebrew text provides specific measurements for Goliath’s physique and kit. Using the standard ancient Near Eastern conversion (1 cubit ≈ 18 inches; 1 span ≈ 9 inches), we can reconstruct the physical reality of the threat.
The Height Conversion
The Loadout (1 Sam 17:5-7)
| Bronze Helmet | — |
| Scale Armor Coat | 125 lbs (5,000 shekels) |
| Iron Spearhead | 15 lbs (600 shekels) |
| Bronze Greaves & Javelin | — |
*Note: The armor described is "scale" armor (17:5), suggesting heavy overlapping bronze plates, distinctive from standard chainmail.
Reflection
When we visualize the data above next to the greatest athletes of our time, the story changes. We see Steph Curry (6'2") and Luka Dončić (6'7")—men we consider tall—looking like children. Even Victor Wembanyama, the 7'4" modern anomaly, is dwarfed by the Philistine champion.
This visualization validates the fear of the Israelite army. They weren't cowards; they were facing a literal monster. A man of this size, carrying nearly 150 pounds of military-grade metal, was a walking siege engine.
This makes David’s faith even more unreasonable.
David didn't ignore the physical reality; he just acknowledged a greater spiritual reality. While the army measured themselves against Goliath and came up short, David measured Goliath against God and realized the giant was too small.
Whatever giant is standing in front of you today—whether it's financial, medical, or relational—stop measuring it against your own strength. Measure it against the Creator of the universe.