### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Golyath**, represented by `{{H1555}}`, is the proper name for the Philistine champion **Goliath**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The name itself is primarily associated with the formidable warrior from Gath who famously challenged the armies of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1555}}` is introduced as a champion from the Philistine camp, a man of great stature measuring six cubits and a span in height [[1 Samuel 17:4]]. He emerged from the armies of the Philistines, issuing a challenge to Israel [[1 Samuel 17:23]]. After his defeat at the hands of David, Goliath's legacy continued. His sword was kept as a spoil of war, wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod in the valley of Elah where he was slain [[1 Samuel 21:9]]. This sword was later given to David as a significant weapon [[1 Samuel 22:10]]. The narrative also records the death of Goliath's brother, who was slain by Elhanan in a later battle with the Philistines ([[1 Chronicles 20:5]], [[2 Samuel 21:19]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for Goliath's identity and story:
* `{{H1143}}` **bênayim** (champion): This term is used to describe Goliath's role as the designated fighter who went out from the Philistine camp to represent their army in single combat [[1 Samuel 17:4]].
* `{{H1661}}` **Gath** (Gath, a Philistine city): This specifies Goliath's city of origin, identifying him as a key figure from a major Philistine city [[1 Samuel 17:23]].
* `{{H1663}}` **Gittîy** (a Gittite or inhabitant of Gath): This term is used to describe Goliath and his brother, emphasizing their lineage and connection to the city of Gath [[1 Chronicles 20:5]].
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): Goliath's sword becomes a significant object after his death, a tangible symbol of David's victory given to him by the priest [[1 Samuel 21:9]].
* `{{H445}}` **'Elchânân** (Elchanan, an Israelite): This is the name of the warrior who later killed Goliath's brother, indicating that the conflict with Goliath's powerful family line continued [[2 Samuel 21:19]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H1555}}` is centered on his role as the ultimate human adversary.
* **Symbol of Defiance:** As the Philistine champion from Gath, Goliath embodies the powerful enemy defying the armies of Israel and, by extension, their God [[1 Samuel 17:23]].
* **Embodiment of Human Might:** His physical description is intentionally intimidating, with his towering height [[1 Samuel 17:4]] and his massive spear that was like a weaver's `{{H707}}` beam `{{H4500}}` [[2 Samuel 21:19]]. This serves to contrast human strength with divine power.
* **A Defeat with Lasting Impact:** The slaying of Goliath becomes a pivotal moment. His sword is preserved and later given to David [[1 Samuel 22:10]], and the subsequent killing of his brother shows the continued struggle against this formidable Philistine lineage [[1 Chronicles 20:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1555}}` is more than just the name of an ancient warrior. Goliath represents the pinnacle of human opposition and arrogance against God's people. His story, tied to his identity as a champion from Gath, serves as a foundational narrative illustrating that faith in the LORD `{{H3068}}` can overcome even the most fearsome and physically powerful adversaries.
TRV