1 Samuel 17:40

KJV

¶ 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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he took {H3947} his staff {H4731} in his hand {H3027}, and chose {H977} him five {H2568} smooth {H2512} stones {H68} out of the brook {H5158}, and put {H7760} them in a shepherd's {H7462} bag {H3627} which he had, even in a scrip {H3219}; and his sling {H7050} was in his hand {H3027}: and he drew near {H5066} to the Philistine {H6430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then he took his stick in his hand and picked five smooth stones from the riverbed, putting them in his shepherd's bag, in his pouch. Then, with his sling in his hand, he approached the P'lishti.

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 17:40 captures a pivotal moment in the iconic narrative of David and Goliath, illustrating David's humble yet resolute preparation for battle. Having rejected King Saul's cumbersome armor, David, a young shepherd, purposefully selects the familiar and effective tools of his trade: a staff, five smooth stones from a nearby brook, a shepherd's bag (scrip), and his sling. This verse meticulously details his readiness, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation where profound faith, divine empowerment, and ingenious simplicity are poised to triumph over overwhelming physical might and conventional military prowess.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows David's bold declaration of faith and his rejection of King Saul's armor in [1 Samuel 17:39](/1_samuel/17-39 "1 Samuel 17:39 - David Rejects Saul's Armor"). For forty days, Goliath, the Philistine champion, had been taunting the armies of Israel, challenging them to send a champion to decide the battle. The Israelites, including King Saul, were paralyzed by fear, as vividly described in [1 Samuel 17:11](/1_samuel/17-11 "1 Samuel 17:11 - Israel's Fear of Goliath"). David, arriving at the battlefield to deliver provisions to his brothers, heard Goliath's blasphemous challenge and, fueled by an unwavering faith in the living God, volunteered to fight. His preparation in this verse underscores his reliance not on human military might or conventional weaponry, but on divine strength and the skills God had already equipped him with as a shepherd. It marks the transition from verbal defiance to physical action, highlighting David's unique approach to a seemingly insurmountable challenge.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Philistines, a formidable Aegean people who had settled on the coast of Canaan, possessed superior iron technology, giving them a significant military advantage over Israel, who were still largely in the Bronze Age (as seen in [1 Samuel 13:19-22](/1_samuel/13-19 "1 Samuel 13:19-22 - Philistine Monopoly on Iron")). The practice of champion warfare, where two opposing armies would send out a single representative to fight, was a recognized method of conflict resolution in the ancient Near East, designed to minimize casualties. Shepherds in ancient Israel were not merely passive tenders of flocks; they were often robust individuals, skilled in defending their sheep from predators like lions and bears, as David himself recounts in [1 Samuel 17:34-36](/1_samuel/17-34 "1 Samuel 17:34-36 - David's Past Victories"). The sling, far from being a primitive toy, was a highly effective and accurate projectile weapon, capable of inflicting lethal force, especially when wielded by a trained hand. David's choice of tools, therefore, was not a sign of naiveté but of practical wisdom rooted in his experience and trust in God's empowerment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within 1 Samuel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it exemplifies the theme of **Reliance on Divine Power over Human Strength**. David's rejection of Saul's heavy, unfamiliar armor in favor of his simple shepherd's tools profoundly illustrates that true victory comes from God's intervention, not from conventional human might or sophisticated weaponry. This echoes the consistent biblical principle that God's strength is often made perfect in human weakness, as articulated in [2 Corinthians 12:9](/2_corinthians/12-9 "2 Corinthians 12:9 - God's Power in Weakness"). Secondly, it highlights **The Significance of the Ordinary and Humble**. David, the youngest and least likely, uses the most unassuming implements to confront the mightiest warrior. This foreshadows God's consistent pattern of choosing the weak and foolish things of the world to confound the wise and mighty, demonstrating His sovereign power. Lastly, the verse underscores **Faith in Action and Divine Providence**. David's deliberate preparation is not reckless bravado but a calculated act of faith. His earlier declaration to Saul in [1 Samuel 17:37](/1_samuel/17-37 "1 Samuel 17:37 - David's Faith in God's Deliverance") that the Lord would deliver him is now translated into purposeful, practical steps, demonstrating that genuine faith is active and resourceful, trusting God to work through available means.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Scrip (Hebrew, _keli'_):** This term refers to a small, often leather, bag or wallet commonly carried by shepherds, travelers, or beggars for provisions or small personal items. In this context, it emphasizes the humble, practical, and non-military nature of David's equipment, contrasting sharply with the elaborate and heavy armor typically worn by warriors like Goliath or King Saul. It signifies David's identity as a shepherd, not a soldier.
* **Brook (Hebrew, _naḥal'_):** A "naḥal" is typically a wadi or dry riverbed that flows only during the rainy season. These seasonal streams are known for their beds being filled with smooth, rounded stones, perfect for slinging. This detail highlights David's intimate knowledge of his environment and his resourcefulness in selecting the optimal projectiles. It suggests a deliberate, practical choice rather than a random collection.
* **Smooth (Hebrew, _ḥalaq'_):** This adjective describes the stones David chose. "Ḥalaq" implies something polished, slippery, or rounded, often by water erosion. Smooth stones are ideal for slinging because their uniform shape allows for a stable trajectory and maximum velocity when released from the sling, increasing accuracy and impact force. This detail underscores David's precision and strategic thinking, ensuring his chosen weapons were as effective as possible.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he took his staff in his hand,"**: David's staff, a symbol of his shepherd identity and authority, served multiple purposes: guiding and protecting his flock, and as a defensive weapon against predators. Its presence here signifies David's reliance on his familiar tools and skills, rather than adopting unfamiliar military equipment. It also subtly alludes to God's rod and staff, which comfort and protect (Psalm 23).
* **"and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook,"**: This clause highlights David's careful and deliberate selection. The "five" stones suggest thorough preparation, perhaps for multiple shots or as a contingency, rather than overconfidence in a single strike. The "smooth" quality indicates his practical understanding of what makes an effective projectile for a sling, demonstrating skill and foresight.
* **"and put them in a shepherd's bag which he had, even in a scrip;"**: This reinforces David's identity as a shepherd and the humble nature of his provisions. The "scrip" (bag) was a common item for shepherds, used to carry food or small necessities. This detail further contrasts David's simple, everyday gear with the heavy, specialized armor of a conventional warrior, underscoring his reliance on God's power working through ordinary means.
* **"and his sling [was] in his hand:"**: The sling was David's primary weapon, a tool he was highly proficient with from defending his flock. Its presence "in his hand" signifies immediate readiness and the active preparation for combat. It represents his skill, honed through practical experience, which God would now use for a greater purpose.
* **"and he drew near to the Philistine."**: This final clause marks the decisive moment of approach, signifying David's unwavering courage and determination. It is the culmination of his preparation and faith, as he confidently advances towards the formidable giant, ready to engage in battle. This action is a powerful visual representation of faith moving into direct confrontation.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound meaning. **Symbolism** is paramount, as David's staff, smooth stones, and sling symbolize humility, reliance on God's power, and the effectiveness of seemingly insignificant means when divinely empowered, standing in stark **contrast** to Saul's heavy armor and Goliath's massive weaponry, which represent human strength and conventional military might. This stark opposition creates dramatic **irony**, where the expected outcome (Goliath's victory) is subverted by David's unconventional approach. The careful description of David's preparation also serves as **foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at the surprising and miraculous victory to come, demonstrating that God's ways are often contrary to human expectations. The narrative's focus on David's deliberate choices and actions underscores his active faith, making him a compelling figure of divine enablement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This pivotal verse encapsulates a profound theological truth: God delights in using the humble, the weak, and the unconventional to accomplish His mighty purposes, thereby ensuring that the glory belongs to Him alone. David's choice of simple shepherd's tools over the king's armor is a powerful testament to the principle that divine power is not dependent on human might or worldly sophistication. It teaches us that true strength lies in absolute reliance on God, rather than on our own abilities, resources, or the perceived advantages of the world. This narrative serves as an enduring reminder that when we step out in faith, even with seemingly inadequate resources, God can transform our "five smooth stones" into instruments of extraordinary victory, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness.

* [Judges 7:2-7](/judges/7-2 "Judges 7:2-7 - Gideon's Army Reduced")
* [Zechariah 4:6](/zechariah/4-6 "Zechariah 4:6 - Not by Might Nor by Power")
* [1 Corinthians 1:27-29](/1_corinthians/1-27 "1 Corinthians 1:27-29 - God Chooses the Foolish and Weak")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene of David preparing for battle in 1 Samuel 17:40 offers timeless lessons for believers navigating the "giants" of their own lives. It challenges us to look beyond conventional solutions and to trust in God's unconventional methods, often working through our seemingly ordinary gifts and experiences. Like David, we are called to discern what "armor" might be hindering us—whether it's reliance on self, worldly wisdom, or the expectations of others—and instead embrace the unique "tools" God has placed in our hands. Our "staff" represents our identity and calling, our "smooth stones" our skills and resources, and our "sling" our faith and obedience. The victory is not contingent on the size of our resources, but on the magnitude of our trust in the God who empowers the weak and makes the impossible possible. This verse encourages us to step forward with courage, knowing that God is able to use our humble preparations for His glorious triumph.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "smooth stones" (gifts, experiences, or simple resources) has God given you that you might be underestimating or overlooking in your current challenges?**
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on human strength, conventional wisdom, or external validation rather than God's power and unique provision?**
* **How can David's example of humble preparation and bold faith inspire you to confront your own "giants" (fears, obstacles, or spiritual battles) today?**

### FAQ
**Why did David choose five stones, not just one?**

Answer: While only one stone was ultimately needed for Goliath's defeat, David's choice of five smooth stones demonstrates both practicality and thoroughness. It could account for potential misses, or the possibility of facing Goliath's shield-bearer or other Philistine warriors who might have accompanied him. More importantly, it reflects David's complete preparedness and confidence, not in the number of stones, but in the God who would direct his aim. It shows he was ready for any contingency, trusting God to work through his diligent preparation.

**Was David's sling a primitive or ineffective weapon?**

Answer: Absolutely not. In ancient warfare, the sling was a highly effective and precise weapon, especially in the hands of a skilled user like David, who had honed his abilities protecting his flock. Slingers could hurl projectiles at speeds exceeding 60 miles per hour, making them capable of inflicting serious injury or death, even against armored opponents. The smooth, dense stones David chose would have acted like deadly projectiles, demonstrating that his choice was not an act of naive faith but a strategic and practical application of his expertise.

**Why did David reject Saul's armor?**

Answer: David rejected Saul's armor for several key reasons. Firstly, it was ill-fitting and cumbersome, as David was unaccustomed to wearing it ("for he had not proved it"). This highlights the importance of using tools and methods that are appropriate for one's own calling and experience, rather than adopting what is conventional but unsuited. More profoundly, it symbolized a reliance on human strength and military convention, which was contrary to David's faith that victory would come from God alone, not from human might or impressive weaponry. David understood that God's power was his true armor.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of David and Goliath, particularly David's humble preparation in 1 Samuel 17:40, powerfully foreshadows the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. David, the unassuming shepherd, confronting a seemingly invincible foe with simple tools, mirrors Christ, who, though divine, took on the humble form of a servant ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")) to confront the ultimate enemy: sin and death. Just as David rejected the world's conventional armor, Jesus did not come with worldly power or military might, but through the path of humility, suffering, and the cross—a "foolishness to those who are perishing" yet the "power of God" ([1 Corinthians 1:18](/1_corinthians/1-18 "1 Corinthians 1:18 - The Message of the Cross")). The "five smooth stones" and the sling, seemingly inadequate, became instruments of divine victory, much like the cross, an instrument of shame, became the means by which Christ triumphed over all principalities and powers ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). David's victory secured Israel's freedom; Christ's victory on the cross secured eternal freedom for all who believe, fulfilling His role as the ultimate [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). He is the true Messianic King, whose triumph over the forces of evil is achieved not by human strength, but by divine power and perfect obedience, ultimately leading to His glorious reign ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ as Victorious King")).

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

1 Corinthians 1:27

But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;

1 Corinthians 1:29

That no flesh should glory in his presence.

Judges 20:16

Among all this people [there were] seven hundred chosen men lefthanded; every one could sling stones at an hair [breadth], and not miss.

Judges 15:15

And he found a new jawbone of an ass, and put forth his hand, and took it, and slew a thousand men therewith.

Judges 15:16

And Samson said, With the jawbone of an ass, heaps upon heaps, with the jaw of an ass have I slain a thousand men.

Matthew 10:10

Nor scrip for [your] journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.

Judges 7:16

¶ And he divided the three hundred men [into] three companies, and he put a trumpet in every man's hand, with empty pitchers, and lamps within the pitchers.