Bible Strands
1 Samuel 17:11
On hearing the words of the Philistine, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and greatly afraid.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The Philistine issues his public defiance to the Israelite ranks, and Saul with the entire army responds to his taunts. This occurs at the peak of psychological warfare before any champion steps forward.
The words — The Hebrew דִּבְרֵי (div.Rei) translates literally as "words of," while הָאֵלֶּה (ha./'E.leh) means "these." Together they pinpoint the terror to the Philistine’s specific utterances rather than an abstract threat.
The thread — This reaction contrasts with the counter-command found in Deuteronomy 31:8, Joshua 1:9, and Psalm 27:1, where God’s presence or command repeatedly replaces fear with courage.
Why it lands — The text records a historical failure to trust divine reassurance when confronted by intimidation. It asks the reader to examine whether they respond to threats with panic or with the commanded steadfastness.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
When Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they were dismayed, and greatly afraid.
Cross-references
- Deuteronomy 31:8 The LORD Himself goes before you; He will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.”
- Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
- Psalms 27:1 Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread?
- Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
- Isaiah 51:12 “I, even I, am He who comforts you. Why should you be afraid of mortal man, of a son of man who withers like grass?
- Isaiah 57:11 Whom have you dreaded and feared, so that you lied and failed to remember Me or take this to heart? Is it not because I have long been silent that you do not fear Me?