1 Chronicles 20:8

KJV

These were born unto the giant in Gath; and they fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.

KJV (with Strong's)

These {H411} were born {H3205} unto the giant {H7497} in Gath {H1661}; and they fell {H5307} by the hand {H3027} of David {H1732}, and by the hand {H3027} of his servants {H5650}.

Complete Jewish Bible

These were sons of the giant in Gat; they fell at the hands of David and his servants.

Berean Standard Bible

So these descendants of Rapha in Gath fell at the hands of David and his servants.

American Standard Version

These were born unto the giant in Gath; and they fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 20:8 serves as a concise yet powerful concluding statement to the Chronicler's account of King David's decisive victories over the Philistine giants. This verse underscores the complete subjugation of these formidable adversaries, specifically those descended from the giant in Gath, highlighting that their defeat was achieved through the combined might and courage of David and his valiant servants. It encapsulates a period of Israel's consolidation and security under divine favor, demonstrating God's faithfulness in empowering His chosen king and people against seemingly insurmountable foes, thereby solidifying the Davidic kingdom's dominion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse provides a summary conclusion to the preceding narrative in [1 Chronicles 20:4-7](/1_chronicles/20-4 "1 Chronicles 20:4-7 - David's Mighty Men Defeat Philistine Giants"), which details specific battles where four Philistine giants were slain by David's mighty men. The Chronicler, writing for a post-exilic audience, meticulously recounts these victories not merely as historical records but as theological affirmations of God's enduring covenant with David and His people. By summarizing these conquests, the text emphasizes the completeness of the Philistine threat's neutralization and the divine hand in Israel's military success, reinforcing the legitimacy and strength of the Davidic dynasty. This account parallels [2 Samuel 21:15-22](/2_samuel/21-15 "2 Samuel 21:15-22 - Parallel Account of Giant Killings"), though with some variations in names and locations, indicating a shared tradition of these significant events.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Philistines were a formidable, technologically advanced, and well-organized enemy of Israel, posing a constant threat to their territorial integrity and national identity. Their presence in major cities like Gath, one of the five Philistine city-states, symbolized their power and deep-rooted opposition. The mention of "giants" refers to the Rephaim, an ancient race of large, powerful individuals mentioned in various parts of the Old Testament (e.g., [Deuteronomy 2:10-11](/deuteronomy/2-10 "Deuteronomy 2:10-11 - The Emim and Rephaim")). Their continued existence in Philistine territory, particularly Gath (the home of [Goliath](/1_samuel/17-4 "1 Samuel 17:4 - Goliath of Gath")), represented a lingering, almost mythical, threat. The defeat of these giants was not just a military victory but a profound symbolic triumph, demonstrating Israel's God-given ascendancy over the most daunting of their enemies, echoing the earlier defeat of Goliath by David himself.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Chronicles. First, it highlights **Divine Victory and Deliverance**, emphasizing that Israel's triumphs against overwhelming odds were ultimately God's doing, working through His chosen instruments. No enemy, however imposing, could thwart the Lord's purposes for His covenant people. Second, it showcases **The Prowess and Loyalty of David and His Servants**, crediting David and his elite warriors (often referred to as his "mighty men," as seen in [1 Chronicles 11:10-47](/1_chronicles/11-10 "1 Chronicles 11:10-47 - David's Mighty Men")) with the physical execution of these giants. This theme celebrates their bravery, skill, and unwavering dedication, which were crucial in securing the kingdom. Finally, the defeat of these "giants" symbolizes **Overcoming Formidable Opposition**, serving as a powerful metaphor for the triumph of faith and courage over seemingly insurmountable challenges, whether military, spiritual, or personal.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Giant (Hebrew, _rapha'_ / _Rephaim'_):** This term refers to a race of ancient, often large-statured people mentioned in various parts of the Old Testament. In this context, it denotes individuals of extraordinary size and strength, embodying the formidable nature of Israel's enemies. Their lineage from "the giant in Gath" connects them directly to the most famous Philistine giant, Goliath, whom David had previously defeated, underscoring the ongoing struggle against this lineage of powerful adversaries.
* **Gath (Hebrew, _Gath'_):** One of the five major Philistine city-states, Gath was a prominent stronghold and a symbol of Philistine power and resistance against Israel. Its association with the giants, particularly Goliath, cemented its reputation as a place of formidable opposition. The defeat of these giants originating from Gath signifies a significant blow to Philistine dominance and a further consolidation of Israel's control over the region.
* **fell by the hand of (Hebrew, _naphal b'yad'_):** This is a common biblical idiom used to describe defeat, death, or destruction in battle. It literally means "fell into the hand of" or "fell by means of the hand of," emphasizing the agency of the victor. In this verse, it clearly attributes the defeat of the giants to the direct action of David and his servants, acknowledging their physical prowess and courage while implicitly recognizing God's empowering presence behind their actions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"These were born unto the giant in Gath;":** This clause identifies the specific lineage and origin of the defeated adversaries. It emphasizes that these were not just any warriors but direct descendants or kin of the original "giant" (likely referring to Goliath or a progenitor figure of the Rephaim in Gath), highlighting their formidable nature and the symbolic significance of their defeat. Their connection to Gath further underscores the Philistine threat.
* **"and they fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.":** This clause states the decisive outcome of the encounters. The phrase "fell by the hand of" indicates their death in battle. Crucially, it attributes the victory not solely to David but also to "his servants"—his elite warriors or mighty men. This collective credit acknowledges the bravery and skill of David's loyal followers, emphasizing the collaborative effort in securing Israel's dominion and the breadth of God's empowering presence among His people.

#### Literary Devices
1 Chronicles 20:8 employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively. **Conciseness** is paramount, as the verse serves as a summary statement, distilling the essence of multiple battles into a single, impactful declaration. This brevity enhances its declarative power, emphasizing the finality of the Philistine giants' defeat. **Symbolism** is also evident, where the "giants" represent not only literal formidable adversaries but also any overwhelming obstacle or enemy that stands against God's people and His purposes. Their defeat thus symbolizes the triumph of divine power and human courage over seemingly insurmountable challenges. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of "by the hand of" (implied through the collective "David, and by the hand of his servants") underscores the agency involved in the victory, while also subtly hinting at the divine hand empowering these human agents.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The defeat of the Philistine giants, summarized in 1 Chronicles 20:8, is deeply significant for the Chronicler's theology. It affirms God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with Israel and the Davidic dynasty. These victories demonstrate that no power, human or supernatural, can ultimately thwart God's plan for His people. Just as God empowered David to overcome Goliath, He continued to grant victory against the remaining giants, solidifying Israel's security and establishing David's reign as one blessed by divine favor. This narrative reinforces the theme that God fights for His people, and their success is a testament to His faithfulness and strength, even when human courage and skill are also evident.

* [Deuteronomy 2:20-21](/deuteronomy/2-20 "Deuteronomy 2:20-21 - God Dispossesses the Rephaim")
* [Joshua 11:21-22](/joshua/11-21 "Joshua 11:21-22 - Joshua's Campaign Against the Anakim")
* [Psalm 18:32-34](/psalm/18-32 "Psalm 18:32-34 - God Equips and Strengthens for Battle")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 20:8, though recounting ancient battles, offers profound lessons for believers today. We, too, face "giants" in our lives—formidable spiritual battles, overwhelming personal struggles, deeply entrenched societal injustices, or seemingly insurmountable obstacles to faith and ministry. This verse reminds us that just as David and his servants faced literal giants and prevailed, we are called to confront our own "giants" with courage and faith. Our victories, however, are not solely by our might, but "by the hand" of God working through us. It encourages us to trust in God's empowering strength, to cultivate courageous faith in the face of daunting challenges, and to recognize the vital role of community and collaboration within the body of Christ. When we stand together, empowered by God, even the most imposing adversaries can be overcome, leading to God's glory and the advancement of His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "giants" (spiritual, personal, or societal challenges) are you facing in your life today that seem insurmountable?**
* **How does the collective victory of "David, and by the hand of his servants" encourage you regarding the importance of community and collaboration in overcoming challenges?**
* **In what ways can you actively trust in God's strength and provision when facing overwhelming odds, rather than relying solely on your own abilities?**
* **How does remembering God's past faithfulness in delivering His people from "giants" strengthen your faith for present and future battles?**

### FAQ
**Who were these "giants" mentioned in Gath, and why were they so significant?**

Answer: The "giants" mentioned in 1 Chronicles 20:8 were formidable Philistine warriors, described as descendants or kin of a "giant" in Gath. The Hebrew term used, _rapha'_ or _Rephaim_, often refers to an ancient race of exceptionally large and powerful individuals. Their significance lies in several aspects: they represented the most imposing and fearsome aspect of the Philistine threat, a lingering vestige of powerful, pre-Israelite inhabitants of the land. Their connection to Gath, the home of the infamous [Goliath](/1_samuel/17-4 "1 Samuel 17:4 - Goliath, the Philistine Champion"), underscored the deep-rooted nature of the Philistine opposition. Their defeat was not just a military victory but a profound symbolic triumph, demonstrating God's power to deliver His people from even the most overwhelming adversaries, thereby solidifying David's kingdom and Israel's security. This narrative reinforces the theme of God's people overcoming seemingly impossible odds through divine empowerment, echoing earlier accounts of giants being dispossessed by God's people (e.g., [Deuteronomy 2:20-21](/deuteronomy/2-20 "Deuteronomy 2:20-21 - God's Dispossession of the Emim")).

**Why does 1 Chronicles 20:8 summarize these events so briefly?**

Answer: 1 Chronicles 20:8 serves as a concise summary statement, concluding the detailed accounts of specific giant-slaying battles found in [1 Chronicles 20:4-7](/1_chronicles/20-4 "1 Chronicles 20:4-7 - Specific Accounts of Giant Killings"). The Chronicler's purpose is not to provide exhaustive battle details, which are partially found in the parallel account in [2 Samuel 21:15-22](/2_samuel/21-15 "2 Samuel 21:15-22 - Parallel Account in Samuel"), but to emphasize the complete and decisive nature of the victory. By summarizing, the verse highlights the overall triumph, underscoring God's consistent empowerment of David and his men, and the final neutralization of this particular threat. It functions as a concluding theological declaration, affirming the security and divine favor upon the Davidic kingdom rather than a blow-by-blow military report.

**What is the significance of "David and his servants" in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants" is highly significant because it attributes the victory not solely to King David but also to his loyal and courageous elite warriors, often known as his "mighty men" (e.g., [1 Chronicles 11:10](/1_chronicles/11-10 "1 Chronicles 11:10 - David's Mighty Men")). This emphasizes the collective effort and the bravery of David's inner circle in securing the kingdom. The Chronicler frequently highlights the exploits of these men, showcasing their dedication and skill as instruments of God's purposes. While God is the ultimate source of victory, this verse acknowledges the human agency, courage, and collaboration required in the execution of God's plans. It underscores the importance of leadership working in concert with a faithful and capable team to achieve great things for God's glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The defeat of the Philistine giants by David and his servants in 1 Chronicles 20:8 foreshadows the ultimate victory achieved by Jesus Christ. Just as these literal giants represented formidable, seemingly insurmountable foes to Israel, humanity faced spiritual "giants" in the form of sin, death, and the power of Satan. David, as king and warrior, served as a type of the greater King and Warrior, Jesus, who would come to decisively conquer these spiritual adversaries. Christ, through His sacrificial death on the cross and His glorious resurrection, disarmed the spiritual powers and authorities, triumphing over them (as declared in [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). He came to destroy the works of the devil ([1 John 3:8](/1_john/3-8 "1 John 3:8 - Jesus Destroys the Works of the Devil")) and, by His death, rendered powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ Destroys Death's Power")). The victory of David and his men secured temporal peace for Israel; the victory of Christ secures eternal peace and salvation for all who believe, enabling us to overcome our own spiritual giants through the power of the Lamb of God ([Revelation 12:11](/revelation/12-11 "Revelation 12:11 - Victory Through the Blood of the Lamb")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 8:31

¶ What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us?

Joshua 14:12

Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims [were] there, and [that] the cities [were] great [and] fenced: if so be the LORD [will be] with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said.

Jeremiah 9:23

¶ Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise [man] glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty [man] glory in his might, let not the rich [man] glory in his riches:

Ecclesiastes 9:11

¶ I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race [is] not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.