1 Samuel 17:51

KJV

Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore David {H1732} ran {H7323}, and stood {H5975} upon the Philistine {H6430}, and took {H3947} his sword {H2719}, and drew {H8025} it out of the sheath {H8593} thereof, and slew {H4191} him, and cut off {H3772} his head {H7218} therewith. And when the Philistines {H6430} saw {H7200} their champion {H1368} was dead {H4191}, they fled {H5127}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then David ran and stood over the P'lishti, took his sword, drew it out of its sheath, and finished killing him, cutting off his head with it. When the P'lishtim saw that their hero was dead, they fled.

Berean Standard Bible

David ran and stood over him. He grabbed the Philistine’s sword and pulled it from its sheath and killed him; and he cut off his head with the sword. When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran.

American Standard Version

Then David ran, and stood over the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 17:51 marks the dramatic and decisive climax of the confrontation between David and Goliath, immediately following David's felling of the Philistine giant with a sling stone. This verse details David's swift, resolute action of decapitating Goliath with the giant's own sword, an act that not only confirmed Goliath's death but also served as a profound symbol of divine victory and the utter humiliation of God's enemies. The immediate consequence of this bold act was the demoralization and scattering of the Philistine army, turning the tide of battle and securing a miraculous triumph for Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of a pivotal narrative in the book of 1 Samuel, specifically chapter 17. For forty days, the Philistine champion Goliath had taunted and challenged the armies of Israel, striking fear into King Saul and his soldiers [1 Samuel 17:10](/1_samuel/17-10 "1 Samuel 17:10 - Goliath's Challenge"). David, a young shepherd boy, arrived at the battlefield and, witnessing the national disgrace, boldly declared his faith in the living God. Despite Saul's skepticism and offer of armor, David chose his simple shepherd's tools. Having already struck Goliath down with a single stone to the forehead [1 Samuel 17:49](/1_samuel/17-49 "1 Samuel 17:49 - David Fells Goliath"), verse 51 describes David's final, decisive act to ensure the giant's defeat and its immediate, widespread impact on the Philistine forces, setting the stage for Israel's pursuit and victory.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The confrontation occurs in the Valley of Elah, a strategic border region between Philistine and Israelite territories. Ancient Near Eastern warfare often involved champions fighting on behalf of their armies, with the outcome determining the overall battle. Goliath's challenge was a recognized form of this "single combat." The act of decapitation was not merely a means of ensuring death but a potent symbol of complete victory, humiliation, and often, a trophy of war. Displaying the head of a defeated enemy was a common practice to demoralize the opposing army and celebrate triumph. Furthermore, the Philistines were a formidable and long-standing enemy of Israel, making this victory particularly significant for Israel's morale and national identity, underscoring God's active involvement in their history.
* **Key Themes:** 1 Samuel 17:51 powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes prevalent in the book of Samuel and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Victory and Empowerment**, demonstrating that God's strength is made perfect in weakness, not through human might or impressive weaponry [2 Corinthians 12:9](/2_corinthians/12-9 "2 Corinthians 12:9 - God's Power in Weakness"). David's triumph is a clear testament to God's intervention through an unlikely servant. Secondly, it exemplifies **Faith in Action**, as David's immediate and confident movement towards the fallen giant underscores his unwavering trust in God's prior deliverance and his decisive follow-through on the victory God had already granted. This aligns with the biblical principle that faith without works is dead, and that true faith leads to bold, obedient action [Hebrews 11:6](/hebrews/11-6 "Hebrews 11:6 - Faith Pleases God"). Thirdly, the **Humiliation of the Enemy** is starkly portrayed; Goliath, who defied the armies of the living God, is not only killed but decapitated by his own sword, symbolizing the complete and ironic defeat of those who oppose God. Finally, the verse illustrates the **Flight of Adversaries**, showing how a decisive act of faith, empowered by God, can demoralize and scatter opposing forces, turning the tide of an entire conflict.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **"ran" (Hebrew, _yaruts'_):** This verb emphasizes David's eagerness and determination. It's not a hesitant approach but a swift, purposeful dash. This action underscores David's unwavering confidence and the immediate follow-through on the victory God had just granted him. It contrasts sharply with the fearful paralysis of the Israelite army and highlights David's unique courage and faith-driven initiative.
* **"stood upon" (Hebrew, _va-ya'amod al'_):** This phrase denotes more than merely standing near; it signifies David's complete dominance and mastery over the fallen giant. To stand "upon" an enemy was a gesture of utter subjugation, triumph, and humiliation in ancient warfare. It visually communicates David's absolute victory and Goliath's complete defeat, emphasizing David's authority and control in that moment.
* **"cut off his head therewith" (Hebrew, _va-yikrat et ro'sho ba'_):** This phrase explicitly describes the decapitation. The "therewith" indicates David used Goliath's own sword, adding a profound layer of ironic justice. This act served multiple purposes: it was undeniable proof of Goliath's death, a final act of humiliation for the Philistine champion, and a powerful symbol of God's reversal of fortunes, where the instrument of the oppressor becomes the means of his demise.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine,"**: This opening clause highlights David's immediate and confident response to Goliath's fall. The "therefore" connects it directly to the previous verses where Goliath was struck down. David's act of running towards the giant, rather than away, demonstrates his courage and unwavering conviction in God's victory. Standing "upon" Goliath signifies complete subjugation and triumph, a visual declaration of dominance over the defeated foe.
* **"and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith."**: This is the core action of the verse. David, unarmed with a sword of his own, seizes Goliath's massive sword. The detail of drawing it from its sheath indicates a deliberate, unhurried, and powerful action. The phrase "slew him, and cut off his head therewith" is a hendiadys, emphasizing the finality and brutality of the act. Goliath, who had defied God and Israel, is not only killed but is utterly shamed by being decapitated with his own weapon, a powerful act of poetic justice.
* **"And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled."**: This final clause describes the immediate and profound consequence of David's act. Goliath was their champion, their symbol of strength and invincibility. His definitive defeat and decapitation shattered their morale, leading to a swift and widespread retreat. This demonstrates the psychological impact of God's decisive victory, scattering the enemy without further direct combat from the Israelite army.

#### Literary Devices
1 Samuel 17:51 is rich in literary devices that amplify its theological and narrative impact. **Irony** is prominent, as David, a seemingly insignificant shepherd, defeats the mighty Goliath not only with a stone but then uses Goliath's own massive sword to complete the victory. The instrument of the oppressor becomes the means of his demise, a powerful example of **poetic justice** and divine reversal. The scene also functions as a **Climax** to the entire narrative, providing the decisive turning point after days of stalemate and fear. The act of standing upon Goliath and cutting off his head is highly **Symbolic**, representing the complete subjugation of God's enemies and the triumph of divine power over human might. This act of David's also serves as a form of **Foreshadowing**, hinting at David's future as a mighty warrior and king, chosen by God to lead Israel to victory against its adversaries. The vivid, action-packed description creates a sense of **Dramatic Tension and Release**, culminating in the immediate and widespread flight of the Philistines, underscoring the overwhelming nature of God's intervention.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The dramatic events of 1 Samuel 17:51 resonate deeply with core theological truths about God's character and His interaction with humanity. This verse powerfully illustrates that true victory in life's battles, whether physical or spiritual, comes not from human strength, impressive armaments, or overwhelming numbers, but from unwavering faith in the living God. David's decisive act, empowered by divine strength, demonstrates God's sovereignty over all circumstances and His commitment to delivering His people. It teaches us that God delights in using the weak and the unlikely to achieve His purposes, thereby ensuring that all glory redounds to Him. The immediate flight of the Philistines underscores the demoralizing effect of God's intervention on opposing forces, signaling that when God acts, the enemy's power is broken, and their resistance crumbles. This narrative provides an enduring paradigm for understanding spiritual warfare: our confidence is not in our own might, but in the God who fights for us and through us.

* [Psalm 20:7](/psalms/20-7 "Psalm 20:7 - Trust in the Name of the Lord")
* [Romans 8:37](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors")
* [1 John 4:4](/1_john/4-4 "1 John 4:4 - Greater is He Who is in You")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Samuel 17:51 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers navigating the challenges of life. Just as David faced a formidable physical giant, we often encounter "giants" in our spiritual, emotional, and circumstantial landscapes—overwhelming fears, persistent temptations, seemingly insurmountable obstacles, or oppressive systems. This verse calls us to remember that our battles are not primarily against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces, and that victory is ultimately God's. It challenges us to move beyond passive faith to decisive action, trusting that when God has given us the means to overcome (like David's stone), we must follow through with courage and conviction, using whatever "sword" He provides, even if it's the enemy's own weapon turned against them. Our confidence should not be in our own abilities or resources, but in the limitless power of God working through us. When we confront our "Goliaths" in His strength, we can expect to see them fall, and their defeat will often demoralize and scatter the broader forces of opposition in our lives, leading to a broader sense of peace, triumph, and freedom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "giants" or seemingly insurmountable challenges are you facing in your life today?**
* **How does David's immediate and decisive action after felling Goliath inspire you to act in faith, rather than hesitate, in your own spiritual battles?**
* **In what ways might God be calling you to use the "enemy's sword" (e.g., turning a past struggle into a testimony, or an oppressive system's weakness against itself) to achieve victory?**
* **How does the Philistines' flight upon seeing their champion dead encourage you about the broader impact of a decisive, God-given victory in your life or community?**

### FAQ
**Why did David cut off Goliath's head after he was already dead?**

Answer: While Goliath was already incapacitated by the stone, David's act of cutting off his head served multiple crucial purposes. Firstly, it was undeniable proof of Goliath's death, which was essential for the demoralization of the Philistine army and the assurance of Israel's victory. In ancient warfare, the head of a champion was often taken as a trophy to be displayed, confirming the kill and celebrating the triumph. Secondly, it was an act of profound humiliation for Goliath and his people. Goliath had defied the armies of the living God, and his decapitation, especially with his own sword, symbolized the utter reversal of his boastful threats and the complete subjugation of the enemy. It was a powerful visual statement of God's justice and sovereignty.

**What is the significance of David using Goliath's own sword?**

Answer: The detail of David using Goliath's own sword is rich with symbolic meaning. It represents a powerful act of poetic justice and divine reversal. Goliath, who had relied on his massive weaponry and strength to intimidate Israel, is ultimately defeated and decapitated by the very instrument of his own power. This highlights the biblical principle that the wicked often fall into the pit they dig for others, and that God can turn the enemy's own tools and strategies against them. It underscores that the victory was God's, demonstrating His ability to use the most unlikely means and even the enemy's resources to achieve His purposes, thereby ensuring that no flesh may glory in His presence [1 Corinthians 1:27-29](/1_corinthians/1-27 "1 Corinthians 1:27-29 - God Chooses the Weak")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The dramatic victory of David over Goliath, culminating in the decisive act of 1 Samuel 17:51, serves as a powerful Old Testament type and shadow pointing to the ultimate, decisive victory of Jesus Christ. David, the humble shepherd, stands as a prototype of Christ, who, though appearing weak and unassuming, confronts and defeats the great enemy. Goliath, the seemingly invincible champion who taunted God's people and held them in fear, represents Satan, sin, and death—the spiritual "giants" that humanity could not overcome. Just as David, by a single, divinely empowered blow, incapacitated Goliath, so Jesus, through His perfect life and sacrificial death on the cross, delivered the decisive blow against the powers of darkness. His resurrection was the ultimate "decapitation" of death and the devil, disarming them and leading them captive in triumph [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities")). The Philistines' immediate flight upon seeing their champion dead foreshadows the ultimate scattering of all spiritual enemies and the triumph of God's kingdom through Christ's victory. Through Christ, we are more than conquerors [Romans 8:37](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors"), sharing in His triumph over every foe, for He has destroyed the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ Destroys the Power of Death")). The victory won by our greater David ensures that death is swallowed up in victory [1 Corinthians 15:54-57](/1_corinthians/15-54 "1 Corinthians 15:54-57 - Victory Over Death")).

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

Hebrews 11:34

Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

1 Samuel 21:9

And the priest said, The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom thou slewest in the valley of Elah, behold, it [is here] wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod: if thou wilt take that, take [it]: for [there is] no other save that here. And David said, [There is] none like that; give it me.

2 Samuel 23:21

And he slew an Egyptian, a goodly man: and the Egyptian had a spear in his hand; but he went down to him with a staff, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and slew him with his own spear.

Hebrews 2:14

¶ Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

Psalms 7:15

He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch [which] he made.

Psalms 7:16

His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.

Esther 7:10

So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified.