Goliath Facts for Kids

For the rollercoaster, see Goliath (Walibi Holland).

David and Goliath

Goliath was a very strong warrior from the Philistine people. He lived a long time ago, and his story is told in the Old Testament part of the Bible. Goliath was known as the best fighter from the city of Gath. He was so big and strong that he was like a champion for his army.

Goliath was incredibly tall. The Bible says he was "six cubits and a span" tall, which is about 290 centimeters (or nearly 9 feet 6 inches)! He wore heavy armour and fought from a chariot. He challenged the Israelite warriors to a one-on-one fight, but no one was brave enough to face him because he was so huge and scary.

David's Brave Challenge
The Philistine Army's Retreat
Goliath's Height in History
Images for kids
See also

David's Brave Challenge

A young shepherd boy named David, who was only about fourteen years old, decided to accept Goliath's challenge. David was very good at using a sling, which is a simple weapon used to throw stones very fast and accurately. He knew he couldn't fight Goliath with a sword, so he thought of a clever plan.

David picked up five smooth stones from a stream. When he faced Goliath, he used his sling to throw one stone with great speed and aim. The stone hit Goliath right on his forehead, just where his helmet didn't cover. Goliath was knocked out and fell to the ground.

The Philistine Army's Retreat

After Goliath fell, David quickly ran over to him. He took Goliath's own sword and used it to cut off Goliath's head. When the Philistine army saw that their champion had been defeated by a young boy, they lost all their courage and ran away. This amazing victory showed everyone that even the smallest person can win against a giant if they are brave and clever.

Goliath's Height in History

Some old writings, like the Dead Sea Scrolls, describe Goliath's height as "four cubits and a span." This would be about 202 centimeters (or 6 feet 7 inches). Even at this height, Goliath would have seemed like a giant compared to most people living at that time, who were usually around 160 centimeters (about 5 feet 3 inches) tall.