“And the priest said unto David, 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.”
1 Samuel 21:9 portrays a significant event in the life of David. To better understand the context and significance of this verse, let’s examine the surrounding passages.
In this chapter, David is fleeing from King Saul, who has become jealous of him due to David’s increasing popularity. David seeks refuge in the city of Nob, where the tabernacle is located. He arrives at the tabernacle and asks the priest, Ahimelech, for food and weapons.
Verse 9:begins with the response of the priest to David’s request. Ahimelech informs David that the only weapon available is the sword of Goliath, the Philistine giant whom David had slain years earlier. This famous event took place in the Valley of Elah (1 Samuel 17:50-51) when David, as a young shepherd boy, defeated Goliath with a stone and a slingshot.
The mention of Goliath’s sword in this verse is significant for a few reasons:
- Symbolic Reminder: Goliath’s sword represents David’s victory over his enemies. It serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and David’s past triumphs. It symbolizes the power and deliverance of God in David’s life.
- Divine Provision: The fact that the sword of Goliath is present at the tabernacle in Nob indicates that God has provided for David’s immediate need for a weapon. This provision demonstrates God’s care for His chosen servant and ensures David’s safety as he continues to navigate through challenging circumstances.
- Foreshadowing of Future Events: David’s request for Goliath’s sword foreshadows future events in his life. The sword becomes an essential weapon in David’s hands as he confronts enemies and faces battles in his future endeavors as a warrior and king.
- Lessons for Believers: This verse can teach believers the importance of remembering God’s faithfulness in their past victories and His ability to provide for their needs in challenging times. It also reminds believers to be resourceful and make use of the tools and provisions God has made available to them.
In response to the priest’s offer, David recognizes the uniqueness and significance of Goliath’s sword. He expresses his desire to possess it by saying, “There is none like that; give it me.” David acknowledges the historical and spiritual weight that comes with this particular weapon, understanding its value and potential usefulness in his current circumstances.
In conclusion, 1 Samuel 21:9 highlights the significance of Goliath’s sword and its connection to David’s past victories and God’s provision. This verse serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness, His ability to equip His chosen servants, and the importance of recognizing and utilizing the resources He provides.
