June 4, 2025 • 30 mins
# 164 - David and Goliath Part I - In this episode of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, we witness the haunting unraveling of King Saul after the Spirit of God departs from him. As torment closes in, a young shepherd named David enters the palace—and through the healing power of music, offers a glimpse of peace in the shadow of Saul’s despair.
Episode 164 of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein is inspired by the Book of Joshua.
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For more information about Yael Eckstein and IFCJ visit https://www.ifcj.org/
Today's opening prayer is inspired by 2 Chronicles 20:15, “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s”
Listen to some of the greatest Bible stories ever told and make prayer a priority in your life by downloading the Pray.com app.
Show Notes:
(01:46) Intro with Yael Eckstein
(02:35) David and Goliath Part I
(28:07) Reflection with Yael Eckstein
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the Chosen People. Saul slid to his knees,
his great shoulders trembling. His breath came in ragged gulps
as he pressed his forehead against the cold floor. He
did not understand it.
Speaker 2 (00:17):
You're the king. You're the king, damn it, act like it.
Speaker 1 (00:27):
There was something inside him, something dark, something clawing. He
had known anger before, but this this was different. This
was like a living thing.
Speaker 3 (00:42):
I was recently in Battlehem speaking with one of your
budding new general's alive son of Jesse, and I was there.
I met his younger brother, and he's a shepherd boy,
but oh, he's a skilled player of the lyre.
Speaker 4 (00:57):
His music was unlike.
Speaker 5 (00:58):
Anything I'd ever heard before. It was like listening to
the heavenly hosts themselves. And this young man is not
only a musician, my King, why, I've heard that he is.
Speaker 2 (01:11):
Resourceful as well.
Speaker 3 (01:13):
He could be a nice shield bearer for you.
Speaker 1 (01:16):
David lowered himself to one.
Speaker 4 (01:18):
Knee, my key, I am David, son of Jesse, at
your service.
Speaker 1 (01:24):
He blocked the first notes from his lyre, a soft,
quiet melody that hum through the air like a distant wind.
The music was gentle, not demanding attention, but drawing it
all the same. Saul closed his eyes.
Speaker 6 (01:48):
Shallo, my friends from here in the Holy Land of Israel,
i'm ya l extein with the International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People. Each day
we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through israel story, we will find this truth
(02:10):
that we are all chosen for something great. So take
a moment today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling
extra grateful for these stories, we would love it if
you left us a review. I read every single one
of them, and if you're interested in hearing more about
the prophetic, life saving work of the Fellowship, you can
(02:31):
visit IFCJ dot Org. Let's begin.
Speaker 2 (02:37):
The war.
Speaker 1 (02:38):
Drums pounded like a heartbeat, slow and steady. The Philistine
camp was alive with firelight and snarling chance, the kind
of primal fervor that turned men into beasts. Across the valley.
King Saul stood with his men behind him, overlooking the
(02:58):
battlefield from the red He had dreamed of war and
longed for its glory. The ring of clashing iron the
songs of victory, but now standing before the Valley of Ella,
he felt none of it. Jonathan was away finishing off
the Amalekites, leaving Saul to be the tip of the spear.
(03:22):
He certainly looked the part, but anxiety gripped him. The
Philistines had amassed a massive army since their last encounter
with Israel. The two armies had converged in a few battles,
but it had become clear that neither were going to
gain the advantage over the other. They were in a stalemate. However,
(03:43):
there was something brewing in the Philistine camp, something different.
They had received some sort of second wind and were
now posturing on the other side of the field. Abner,
Saul's general, stood beside him with reports.
Speaker 7 (04:00):
I don't like the looks of this, my king. The
Philistines are posturing in an unusual way.
Speaker 2 (04:06):
What do your scouts say? They've brought some disturbing reports back.
Speaker 7 (04:10):
They're whispers that a new commander from Gap has taken over.
Speaker 2 (04:15):
The people of Gath have more reason to hate us
than most, especially after what happened with the Ark of
the Covenant. What is so unusual about our scouts reports.
Speaker 7 (04:25):
They say that this man isn't human, He's a descendant
from the warriors of old.
Speaker 2 (04:31):
What's his name?
Speaker 7 (04:33):
He doesn't have a name, only a title.
Speaker 1 (04:36):
Before Abner could finish his sentence, a low, guttural chant
echoed across the canyon from the Philistine camp. The enemy
swayed as one, an undulating mass of shields and spears,
their voices rising with the beat of the drums.
Speaker 2 (04:54):
What of each the dogs quarreling about.
Speaker 1 (04:56):
The Philistine chant became louder. Saul could he of them
in their native tongue, Sabby.
Speaker 2 (05:11):
You know the Philistine language better than I him. What
are they saying? I believe the.
Speaker 1 (05:17):
Title of gas. The swaying and chance quickened with the beats.
They hissed and sneered at the Israelites. Their sways became
frantic and animalistic. Then the Philistine horde parted. They crouched
and bowed to their knees, cackling like hyenas the drums ceased,
(05:42):
but the ground was still shaking. Saul could feel the
quaking of the earth on his chest. Things long, the
ground trembled beneath Soare's feet as he watch'd the horde
(06:07):
part in two a shadow loomed over them, walking through
the center. The creature had the shape of a man,
but his size that of legend. He seem'd to be
a relic of a darker age. His legs were thick
as tree trunks, his chest clad in a coat of iron.
(06:28):
Scales muscles coiled beneath his skin like cables of rope.
A spear of solid iron rested in one hand, thick
as a weaver's beam, its tip gleaming like a fang
in the sun. The other hand gripped a massive sword
that lesser men would struggle to lift.
Speaker 2 (06:50):
A a.
Speaker 1 (06:55):
Goliath, the Titan of Gath. The Philistines roared his name,
a chant rolling like a storm across the valley. Goliath grinned,
drinking in the sound like a strong wine. He marched
to the edge of the valley, swinging his sword lazily,
(07:17):
then turned his gaze upon the Israelite army. Even from
this distance, Saul swore the brute could see the fear
in his eyes. The giant lifted his sword and swung
it at a nearby tree. The thick trunk shattered, splintering
into a thousand pieces, before tumbling down the rocky slope.
(07:40):
The Philistines banged their weapons against their shields, howling in delight.
Goliath stretched out his arms shay Wall Soul. Saul's entire
body clenched as the beast said his name. He rolled
(08:00):
his shoulders back and replied.
Speaker 8 (08:04):
Soul, King of Israel, I am Goliath, the Titan of
goth son of the Wolf, and commander of the United
Philistine Army.
Speaker 4 (08:17):
I have come to challenge you to sakh tarakh.
Speaker 1 (08:23):
The Philistine army erupted in shouts and chance. Saul leaned
to Tavi, where's that worth?
Speaker 3 (08:31):
Such tarakis a Philistine ritual of combat.
Speaker 4 (08:36):
It means doul of blood.
Speaker 1 (08:39):
Saul gulped, then looked out at Goliath. He could see
a wide smile curl over the beast's mouth.
Speaker 8 (08:47):
Come now, why waste any more good men in battle?
Am I not of Philistine?
Speaker 2 (08:57):
Are you not the king of.
Speaker 8 (09:02):
Come now to so sun Thor, our champion. Let him
face me.
Speaker 2 (09:13):
If he slays me, the Philistines.
Speaker 1 (09:17):
Will be your grouthonds.
Speaker 8 (09:20):
What if I strike him down and you will bow
before us as our grouthons, and your people will be
our slaves into the end of day?
Speaker 1 (09:46):
Tavy was trembling, as were the rest of the men
behind Saul, my king.
Speaker 3 (09:53):
Grothans are the Philistine blood slaves, men taken by bloodshed
for bloodshed. He's talking about war slaves, my lord. In
this challenge, those who loose become no more than spearheads
and arrows for others to use.
Speaker 1 (10:11):
Silence fell over the Israelite ranks. Sword's throat tightened, his
heart pounded against his ribs. He had always stood ahead
above other men, the tallest in Israel. He had fought
battles and cut down warriors. But this, this was no man.
(10:32):
This monster was something out of legend, a specter of
death given flesh and steel. Goliath's voice rumbled again.
Speaker 8 (10:42):
What's the matter, soul, No man among your ranks willing
to fight? Then come yourself, show your people you're not
a coward.
Speaker 1 (11:04):
Saul clenched his jaw abner turned to his king, sensing
the terror dripping from his paws.
Speaker 2 (11:12):
Who isn't a man in Israel who could even lift.
Speaker 7 (11:14):
That beast shield, let alone face him in single combat?
Speaker 2 (11:19):
What do we do?
Speaker 1 (11:21):
Saul was silent. He rolled his neck back and retreated
to his tent. The Philistines laughed.
Speaker 8 (11:28):
I'll be here tomorrow and the next day and the
next day soon, so sanusor to fight me. But beyond Saul,
my offer won't last forever.
Speaker 1 (11:48):
For forty days, the Philistine giant descended into the valley.
For forty days he issued his challenge, and for forty
days Saul remained silent. Israel was paralyzed. They had no champion.
(12:09):
David fastened the last of the supplies to his donkey,
his fingers moving swiftly, his mind.
Speaker 2 (12:16):
Elsewhere did you pack the bread?
Speaker 9 (12:18):
Yes, father, and the extra wineskins, the bandages. I packed
more eliab a biddi Dab and Shama will have everything
they need. Don't doddle when you get to the encampment.
The warriors of Israel have enough on their hands. The
last thing they need is to protect the curious child
who falls into a revine.
Speaker 4 (12:37):
Fall into a revine, Father, how oh do you think
I am? I'm not a toddler, I'm a capable.
Speaker 1 (12:43):
Jesse grunted and turned away, not allowing his son to finish.
David exhaled through his nose, glancing after him. His father's
pride was reserved for his older brothers, the ones who
wore armor, who stood in the king's ranks. David was
no soldier. He was a courier, a musician, a shepherd.
(13:07):
He knew his father would never beam at him the
way he did when he spoke of Eliab, but Saul did.
Saul had looked on David with favor, even kept him
close as his armor bearer, and Jonathan had taken him
in as a brother in the king's court. David had
found what his home never gave him a sense of belonging.
(13:31):
He was eager to see Saul and help in any
way he could. He took the Donkey's reins and set
out for Sokkor, eager to see how the battle fared.
As he approached the Israelite camp, David's heart pounded, But
when he reached the crest of the hill, what he
(13:51):
saw made him stop in confusion. No battle, just posturing.
The armies of Israel and Philip Fistier stood on opposite
sides of the valley, hurling insults, banging swords against shields.
David frowned. Was this war? His fingers tightened around the
(14:13):
donkey's reins. He slipped through the crowd of soldiers, searching
for his brothers, His brother approached his armor, loose his spear.
Dull Abinadab was next to him. Clearly neither of them
had any intention of fighting that day. Shammer grinned, wrapping
an arm around David's neck, ruffling his hair.
Speaker 2 (14:35):
Come to watch, runt.
Speaker 1 (14:37):
David wriggled free, brushing dirt from his tunic.
Speaker 4 (14:40):
Shouldn't you be sharpening your spears instead of taunting me?
Speaker 10 (14:44):
Why there's no battle?
Speaker 1 (14:45):
David's brows furrowed. He turned from them and pushed through
the soldiers, ignoring their gears. He reached the front line
and climbed onto a large stone for a better view.
The Philistines moved like a lip beast, swaying in unison.
Their chance deep and guttural. They howled and hissed, laughing
(15:07):
like hyenas. Then the crowd split down the middle. The
ground trembled. Then the titan emerged. David's breath caught in
his throat at the sight of him Goliath. He strode
to the canyon's edge, his spear in hand, and slammed
its bart into the earth. The crack of rock echoed
(15:30):
across the valley. Then came the roar. David felt it
in his chest in his bones. The Philistines cheered, new.
Speaker 8 (15:46):
Dogs, I have waited, and still cowards refused to sudden
me hose that your thor.
Speaker 1 (16:02):
He turned his spear towards Saul, as he had for
the past forty days.
Speaker 8 (16:08):
Well is your god, King, Saul?
Speaker 2 (16:14):
Is he his leak of a god as you are
of a king. Is his voice as silent as yours?
Speaker 8 (16:26):
I split on your ancestors and your God. Your people
are worldless, cowards. Perhaps you need to be conquered, loved, arawn,
It's in your nature to be slaves.
Speaker 1 (16:47):
David's fists clenched. He turned to his left. There stood
so radiant in gold plated armor, his swords hilt engraved
with the words of Hebrew warriors long dead. His chest
was broad, his posture unyielding. He looked like a king.
(17:07):
But he did nothing, not a word, not a step forward.
David's lips parted in disbelief. The great King saw the
chosen of Israel, The warrior king silent. The Israelite soldiers
shifted in place, muttering. No one moved, no one spoke.
(17:30):
Then one by one they turned back to their tents.
David slid down the rock, catching Shamer.
Speaker 4 (17:39):
What's going on here?
Speaker 10 (17:41):
That giant has marked us for over a month. He's
challenged us to single combat. The king has promised wealth,
his daughter's hand, and a tax exemption to any man
who kills.
Speaker 4 (17:51):
Him, and no one has stepped forward.
Speaker 10 (17:53):
I mean, come on, look at him.
Speaker 2 (17:56):
You've seen his hands.
Speaker 10 (17:57):
He could crush a man's skull like a pomegranate. Besides,
nobody wants to be the man responsible for losing, causing
the entire nation to become enslaved.
Speaker 4 (18:07):
But he's mocked our god. How could any of you
just stand there and let that happen?
Speaker 1 (18:13):
Shamo was right, bravery was not enough. Whoever faced Goliath
couldn't try to win. He had to know he would win.
He scanned the soldier's faces. Their eyes were all hollow,
their shoulders slumped fear. David's fingers twitched and his knees
(18:35):
began to shift. Just then, a rough hand clamped onto
David's shoulder, yanking him backward. It was Eliab, clad in
polished armor, but no signs of any actual battle.
Speaker 2 (18:50):
What are you doing here, David?
Speaker 4 (18:51):
I should be asking you the same question.
Speaker 2 (18:54):
Don't act all tough? Where are the sheep? If you're here.
Did you lead them to die in the wilderness just
so you could watch a battle?
Speaker 1 (19:02):
David's jaw clenched. Eliab shoved him go home. David stumbled,
but caught himself.
Speaker 2 (19:10):
I know why you're here, little brother. You just had
to see the war, didn't you. You want to watch
men die while you sit safely on the hill.
Speaker 1 (19:20):
David's blood boiled, the insults, the belittling. It had been
this way all his life. But today he wasn't in
the pasture. Today he wasn't going to take it. David lunged,
shoving a Liab back. His older brother caught him by
the arm and threw him to the ground.
Speaker 2 (19:42):
Stay down, runt.
Speaker 1 (19:44):
David spat dirt from his mouth and stood again. A
Liab raised a finger.
Speaker 4 (19:50):
You don't belong here, and you do what have you done?
That uncircumcised philisity marks our God and you've done nothing, sure.
Speaker 2 (20:00):
Like you'd faith him. You all talk, David, all those
stories about slaying lions is off for show to impress father.
But I have news for you. Nobody is impressed. You
were born in iniquity and you'll always be the runt
of the litter.
Speaker 1 (20:18):
David said nothing, but he didn't have to. There was
a fire in his eyes that caused Aliab to step back.
David nodded to himself, as if he had resolved something
in his mind. David turned his back on him without
another word. He marched towards Saul's tent. Saul paced like
(20:45):
a caged animal inside his tent, his fingers twitching, his
mind circling the same problem over and over again. Goliath
had made fools of them.
Speaker 2 (20:56):
Forty days, forty damn days, weds, mockery, a fear of
waking to the taunts of a beast.
Speaker 1 (21:06):
Saul was angry that no one, not even himself, would
step forward. He had promised riches, his daughter's hand in marriage,
a life free from taxes, and still not a single
warrior dared answer the challenge. Habnah stood beside him, arms folded, silent.
(21:27):
Saul sank onto his throne, rubbing his temples.
Speaker 2 (21:31):
The giant has made a morckery of us, and yet
there is nothing we can do about it. We have
run out of time, my king. If we wait any longer,
you will march against us in the night. We cannot
I know what they're capable of.
Speaker 1 (21:52):
Saul snapped, hurling his cup against the wooden beams of
the tent. The room fell silent. Saul exhalesiled sharply and
ran a hand through his beard. He lifted a hand apologetically,
shaking his head.
Speaker 2 (22:07):
We are at an impasse, our men or without hope.
They are without something to inspire them to battle.
Speaker 1 (22:18):
He stared at the fire burning in the center of
the tent. He remembered another fire long ago, when he
had sat beside Samuel his kingdom knew his anointing fresh.
Speaker 2 (22:31):
We need some sort of spark.
Speaker 1 (22:35):
Just then, the tent flaps burst open. David strode in.
Saul blinked in surprise, then relieved, he forced a smile.
Speaker 2 (22:46):
Ah, young David, you've come at the perfect time. He
could all use some music to calm our nerves.
Speaker 1 (22:56):
David did not touch his lyre. Instead, he bowed to
the floor, beating his fist against his chest.
Speaker 4 (23:03):
My King, let no man's heart lose hope because of
this giant. I will go and fight the Philistine.
Speaker 1 (23:10):
For a moment, there was only silence. Then the men
around Saul chuckled, shaking their heads. Saul stood and took
David by the arm, lifting him from the ground. He
dusted off the boy's tunic with a wry smile.
Speaker 2 (23:26):
Sure that you are are filled with fire, no, David,
But what sort of king would I be to send
a boy against a giant? You are young, and that
monster has been killing entire clan since he was your age, no,
no doubt, feasting on their flesh.
Speaker 1 (23:43):
David stepped back and bowed his head.
Speaker 4 (23:45):
My king, are you familiar with the role of a shepherd?
Speaker 2 (23:49):
Of course, my father had fox of his own. A
shepherd leads his sheep, takes them to green pastures and water.
Speaker 4 (23:56):
That is part of it. But the shepherd's first duty
is to protect his flock at all costs.
Speaker 1 (24:02):
Saul crossed his arms. The room stirred uncomfortably. David's voice
did not waver.
Speaker 4 (24:09):
When a lion came from my land, I ran after it.
I did not hesitate when it tried to escape. I
climbed the cliffs to retrieve my sheep from its jaws,
and when it turned on me, I struck it down
with my bare hands. A good shepherd lays down his
life for his sheep.
Speaker 1 (24:26):
The man shifted again. David pointed toward the valley, toward
the Philistine horde. His mouth curled into a slight grin
his eyes, gleaming.
Speaker 4 (24:38):
This philistine is no greater than that lion. He comes
into our land, threatens God's flock, bears his teeth and roars.
He's defiled the armies of the Living God and made
a mockery of him. And I will strike him down,
just as I struck down the lion, not by my
own strength, but by mite of the Lord.
Speaker 1 (25:01):
Saul's breath quickened. It had been a long time since
he had felt the fire of the spirit, a long
time since he had heard that passion, that unwavering certainty,
and now coming from a boy of all people, it
was bursting forth like a mighty tempest. The King stared
(25:22):
at David for a long moment. Then Saul smiled.
Speaker 2 (25:27):
Very well, go, then the Lord be with you.
Speaker 1 (25:31):
Gasps echoed through the tent.
Speaker 2 (25:33):
My King, you can't be serious.
Speaker 7 (25:36):
You've just commissioned a boy no older than sixteen to
fight the greatest warrior the world had ever seen.
Speaker 2 (25:43):
I don't see you rising up to fight Abner. And
if the Philistines are going to attack us anyways, why
not give ourselves a chance with this boy who knows
what the Lord may do.
Speaker 1 (25:59):
Saul's blood was alight with something he had not felt
in years.
Speaker 2 (26:03):
You will need help, of course, the finest armor Israel
has to offer, A drew warrior's weapon.
Speaker 1 (26:10):
He turned and took his own armor from its stand,
the golden plates, the heavy coat of mail, the helmet
of bronze. Carefully, he placed them over David's shoulders. The
boy's knees nearly buckled under the weight. Saul smiled at him,
fastening the clasps.
Speaker 2 (26:32):
There, that should do it.
Speaker 1 (26:35):
David took a step forward, then another, then he stopped.
David was nearly swimming in Saul's armor. It didn't fit,
and even if it did fit, it didn't feel right.
David was not sore. The shepherd boy took a few
more steps, slow and stiff, Then without a word, he
(26:58):
unbuckled the straps. The armor clattered to the floor. David
removed the helmet and placed the sword back in Saul's hands.
He bowed his head.
Speaker 4 (27:09):
My Kingio, your armor is splendid, but have not tested it,
and for all its beautia, I fear it's more of
a hindrance than a defense.
Speaker 2 (27:20):
Don't be foolish, boy. You need a real weapon, you
need real armor. No, I don't.
Speaker 1 (27:29):
David gripped his staff, his sling rested at his belt.
Speaker 4 (27:33):
These will be my weapons. The Lord has done far more,
far less.
Speaker 1 (27:39):
And with that the shepherd turned and left the tent.
Saul stood frozen, fingers trailing over the golden plates of
his armor. For all the wealth, the splendor, the appearance
of power, what good had it done? David departed for
the banks of the river, eyes ignited with righteous fury.
(28:04):
Israel had It's champion.
Speaker 6 (28:10):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her review. We read them, and me personally I
cherish them as you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers six Iva
Hashem vishmerechra Yeah Heir hashempanave elera y sa hashempanave lera.
Speaker 1 (28:39):
Shalon.
Speaker 6 (28:41):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you. Made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (28:52):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with you.
Isle Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the
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(29:12):
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(29:32):
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Previously on the Chosen People. Saul slid to his knees,
his great shoulders trembling. His breath came in ragged gulps
as he pressed his forehead against the cold floor. He
did not understand it.
Speaker 2 (00:17):
You're the king. You're the king, damn it, act like it.
Speaker 1 (00:27):
There was something inside him, something dark, something clawing. He
had known anger before, but this this was different. This
was like a living thing.
Speaker 3 (00:42):
I was recently in Battlehem speaking with one of your
budding new general's alive son of Jesse, and I was there.
I met his younger brother, and he's a shepherd boy,
but oh, he's a skilled player of the lyre.
Speaker 4 (00:57):
His music was unlike.
Speaker 5 (00:58):
Anything I'd ever heard before. It was like listening to
the heavenly hosts themselves. And this young man is not
only a musician, my King, why, I've heard that he is.
Speaker 2 (01:11):
Resourceful as well.
Speaker 3 (01:13):
He could be a nice shield bearer for you.
Speaker 1 (01:16):
David lowered himself to one.
Speaker 4 (01:18):
Knee, my key, I am David, son of Jesse, at
your service.
Speaker 1 (01:24):
He blocked the first notes from his lyre, a soft,
quiet melody that hum through the air like a distant wind.
The music was gentle, not demanding attention, but drawing it
all the same. Saul closed his eyes.
Speaker 6 (01:48):
Shallo, my friends from here in the Holy Land of Israel,
i'm ya l extein with the International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People. Each day
we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through israel story, we will find this truth
(02:10):
that we are all chosen for something great. So take
a moment today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling
extra grateful for these stories, we would love it if
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of them, and if you're interested in hearing more about
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(02:31):
visit IFCJ dot Org. Let's begin.
Speaker 2 (02:37):
The war.
Speaker 1 (02:38):
Drums pounded like a heartbeat, slow and steady. The Philistine
camp was alive with firelight and snarling chance, the kind
of primal fervor that turned men into beasts. Across the valley.
King Saul stood with his men behind him, overlooking the
(02:58):
battlefield from the red He had dreamed of war and
longed for its glory. The ring of clashing iron the
songs of victory, but now standing before the Valley of Ella,
he felt none of it. Jonathan was away finishing off
the Amalekites, leaving Saul to be the tip of the spear.
(03:22):
He certainly looked the part, but anxiety gripped him. The
Philistines had amassed a massive army since their last encounter
with Israel. The two armies had converged in a few battles,
but it had become clear that neither were going to
gain the advantage over the other. They were in a stalemate. However,
(03:43):
there was something brewing in the Philistine camp, something different.
They had received some sort of second wind and were
now posturing on the other side of the field. Abner,
Saul's general, stood beside him with reports.
Speaker 7 (04:00):
I don't like the looks of this, my king. The
Philistines are posturing in an unusual way.
Speaker 2 (04:06):
What do your scouts say? They've brought some disturbing reports back.
Speaker 7 (04:10):
They're whispers that a new commander from Gap has taken over.
Speaker 2 (04:15):
The people of Gath have more reason to hate us
than most, especially after what happened with the Ark of
the Covenant. What is so unusual about our scouts reports.
Speaker 7 (04:25):
They say that this man isn't human, He's a descendant
from the warriors of old.
Speaker 2 (04:31):
What's his name?
Speaker 7 (04:33):
He doesn't have a name, only a title.
Speaker 1 (04:36):
Before Abner could finish his sentence, a low, guttural chant
echoed across the canyon from the Philistine camp. The enemy
swayed as one, an undulating mass of shields and spears,
their voices rising with the beat of the drums.
Speaker 2 (04:54):
What of each the dogs quarreling about.
Speaker 1 (04:56):
The Philistine chant became louder. Saul could he of them
in their native tongue, Sabby.
Speaker 2 (05:11):
You know the Philistine language better than I him. What
are they saying? I believe the.
Speaker 1 (05:17):
Title of gas. The swaying and chance quickened with the beats.
They hissed and sneered at the Israelites. Their sways became
frantic and animalistic. Then the Philistine horde parted. They crouched
and bowed to their knees, cackling like hyenas the drums ceased,
(05:42):
but the ground was still shaking. Saul could feel the
quaking of the earth on his chest. Things long, the
ground trembled beneath Soare's feet as he watch'd the horde
(06:07):
part in two a shadow loomed over them, walking through
the center. The creature had the shape of a man,
but his size that of legend. He seem'd to be
a relic of a darker age. His legs were thick
as tree trunks, his chest clad in a coat of iron.
(06:28):
Scales muscles coiled beneath his skin like cables of rope.
A spear of solid iron rested in one hand, thick
as a weaver's beam, its tip gleaming like a fang
in the sun. The other hand gripped a massive sword
that lesser men would struggle to lift.
Speaker 2 (06:50):
A a.
Speaker 1 (06:55):
Goliath, the Titan of Gath. The Philistines roared his name,
a chant rolling like a storm across the valley. Goliath grinned,
drinking in the sound like a strong wine. He marched
to the edge of the valley, swinging his sword lazily,
(07:17):
then turned his gaze upon the Israelite army. Even from
this distance, Saul swore the brute could see the fear
in his eyes. The giant lifted his sword and swung
it at a nearby tree. The thick trunk shattered, splintering
into a thousand pieces, before tumbling down the rocky slope.
(07:40):
The Philistines banged their weapons against their shields, howling in delight.
Goliath stretched out his arms shay Wall Soul. Saul's entire
body clenched as the beast said his name. He rolled
(08:00):
his shoulders back and replied.
Speaker 8 (08:04):
Soul, King of Israel, I am Goliath, the Titan of
goth son of the Wolf, and commander of the United
Philistine Army.
Speaker 4 (08:17):
I have come to challenge you to sakh tarakh.
Speaker 1 (08:23):
The Philistine army erupted in shouts and chance. Saul leaned
to Tavi, where's that worth?
Speaker 3 (08:31):
Such tarakis a Philistine ritual of combat.
Speaker 4 (08:36):
It means doul of blood.
Speaker 1 (08:39):
Saul gulped, then looked out at Goliath. He could see
a wide smile curl over the beast's mouth.
Speaker 8 (08:47):
Come now, why waste any more good men in battle?
Am I not of Philistine?
Speaker 2 (08:57):
Are you not the king of.
Speaker 8 (09:02):
Come now to so sun Thor, our champion. Let him
face me.
Speaker 2 (09:13):
If he slays me, the Philistines.
Speaker 1 (09:17):
Will be your grouthonds.
Speaker 8 (09:20):
What if I strike him down and you will bow
before us as our grouthons, and your people will be
our slaves into the end of day?
Speaker 1 (09:46):
Tavy was trembling, as were the rest of the men
behind Saul, my king.
Speaker 3 (09:53):
Grothans are the Philistine blood slaves, men taken by bloodshed
for bloodshed. He's talking about war slaves, my lord. In
this challenge, those who loose become no more than spearheads
and arrows for others to use.
Speaker 1 (10:11):
Silence fell over the Israelite ranks. Sword's throat tightened, his
heart pounded against his ribs. He had always stood ahead
above other men, the tallest in Israel. He had fought
battles and cut down warriors. But this, this was no man.
(10:32):
This monster was something out of legend, a specter of
death given flesh and steel. Goliath's voice rumbled again.
Speaker 8 (10:42):
What's the matter, soul, No man among your ranks willing
to fight? Then come yourself, show your people you're not
a coward.
Speaker 1 (11:04):
Saul clenched his jaw abner turned to his king, sensing
the terror dripping from his paws.
Speaker 2 (11:12):
Who isn't a man in Israel who could even lift.
Speaker 7 (11:14):
That beast shield, let alone face him in single combat?
Speaker 2 (11:19):
What do we do?
Speaker 1 (11:21):
Saul was silent. He rolled his neck back and retreated
to his tent. The Philistines laughed.
Speaker 8 (11:28):
I'll be here tomorrow and the next day and the
next day soon, so sanusor to fight me. But beyond Saul,
my offer won't last forever.
Speaker 1 (11:48):
For forty days, the Philistine giant descended into the valley.
For forty days he issued his challenge, and for forty
days Saul remained silent. Israel was paralyzed. They had no champion.
(12:09):
David fastened the last of the supplies to his donkey,
his fingers moving swiftly, his mind.
Speaker 2 (12:16):
Elsewhere did you pack the bread?
Speaker 9 (12:18):
Yes, father, and the extra wineskins, the bandages. I packed
more eliab a biddi Dab and Shama will have everything
they need. Don't doddle when you get to the encampment.
The warriors of Israel have enough on their hands. The
last thing they need is to protect the curious child
who falls into a revine.
Speaker 4 (12:37):
Fall into a revine, Father, how oh do you think
I am? I'm not a toddler, I'm a capable.
Speaker 1 (12:43):
Jesse grunted and turned away, not allowing his son to finish.
David exhaled through his nose, glancing after him. His father's
pride was reserved for his older brothers, the ones who
wore armor, who stood in the king's ranks. David was
no soldier. He was a courier, a musician, a shepherd.
(13:07):
He knew his father would never beam at him the
way he did when he spoke of Eliab, but Saul did.
Saul had looked on David with favor, even kept him
close as his armor bearer, and Jonathan had taken him
in as a brother in the king's court. David had
found what his home never gave him a sense of belonging.
(13:31):
He was eager to see Saul and help in any
way he could. He took the Donkey's reins and set
out for Sokkor, eager to see how the battle fared.
As he approached the Israelite camp, David's heart pounded, But
when he reached the crest of the hill, what he
(13:51):
saw made him stop in confusion. No battle, just posturing.
The armies of Israel and Philip Fistier stood on opposite
sides of the valley, hurling insults, banging swords against shields.
David frowned. Was this war? His fingers tightened around the
(14:13):
donkey's reins. He slipped through the crowd of soldiers, searching
for his brothers, His brother approached his armor, loose his spear.
Dull Abinadab was next to him. Clearly neither of them
had any intention of fighting that day. Shammer grinned, wrapping
an arm around David's neck, ruffling his hair.
Speaker 2 (14:35):
Come to watch, runt.
Speaker 1 (14:37):
David wriggled free, brushing dirt from his tunic.
Speaker 4 (14:40):
Shouldn't you be sharpening your spears instead of taunting me?
Speaker 10 (14:44):
Why there's no battle?
Speaker 1 (14:45):
David's brows furrowed. He turned from them and pushed through
the soldiers, ignoring their gears. He reached the front line
and climbed onto a large stone for a better view.
The Philistines moved like a lip beast, swaying in unison.
Their chance deep and guttural. They howled and hissed, laughing
(15:07):
like hyenas. Then the crowd split down the middle. The
ground trembled. Then the titan emerged. David's breath caught in
his throat at the sight of him Goliath. He strode
to the canyon's edge, his spear in hand, and slammed
its bart into the earth. The crack of rock echoed
(15:30):
across the valley. Then came the roar. David felt it
in his chest in his bones. The Philistines cheered, new.
Speaker 8 (15:46):
Dogs, I have waited, and still cowards refused to sudden
me hose that your thor.
Speaker 1 (16:02):
He turned his spear towards Saul, as he had for
the past forty days.
Speaker 8 (16:08):
Well is your god, King, Saul?
Speaker 2 (16:14):
Is he his leak of a god as you are
of a king. Is his voice as silent as yours?
Speaker 8 (16:26):
I split on your ancestors and your God. Your people
are worldless, cowards. Perhaps you need to be conquered, loved, arawn,
It's in your nature to be slaves.
Speaker 1 (16:47):
David's fists clenched. He turned to his left. There stood
so radiant in gold plated armor, his swords hilt engraved
with the words of Hebrew warriors long dead. His chest
was broad, his posture unyielding. He looked like a king.
(17:07):
But he did nothing, not a word, not a step forward.
David's lips parted in disbelief. The great King saw the
chosen of Israel, The warrior king silent. The Israelite soldiers
shifted in place, muttering. No one moved, no one spoke.
(17:30):
Then one by one they turned back to their tents.
David slid down the rock, catching Shamer.
Speaker 4 (17:39):
What's going on here?
Speaker 10 (17:41):
That giant has marked us for over a month. He's
challenged us to single combat. The king has promised wealth,
his daughter's hand, and a tax exemption to any man
who kills.
Speaker 4 (17:51):
Him, and no one has stepped forward.
Speaker 10 (17:53):
I mean, come on, look at him.
Speaker 2 (17:56):
You've seen his hands.
Speaker 10 (17:57):
He could crush a man's skull like a pomegranate. Besides,
nobody wants to be the man responsible for losing, causing
the entire nation to become enslaved.
Speaker 4 (18:07):
But he's mocked our god. How could any of you
just stand there and let that happen?
Speaker 1 (18:13):
Shamo was right, bravery was not enough. Whoever faced Goliath
couldn't try to win. He had to know he would win.
He scanned the soldier's faces. Their eyes were all hollow,
their shoulders slumped fear. David's fingers twitched and his knees
(18:35):
began to shift. Just then, a rough hand clamped onto
David's shoulder, yanking him backward. It was Eliab, clad in
polished armor, but no signs of any actual battle.
Speaker 2 (18:50):
What are you doing here, David?
Speaker 4 (18:51):
I should be asking you the same question.
Speaker 2 (18:54):
Don't act all tough? Where are the sheep? If you're here.
Did you lead them to die in the wilderness just
so you could watch a battle?
Speaker 1 (19:02):
David's jaw clenched. Eliab shoved him go home. David stumbled,
but caught himself.
Speaker 2 (19:10):
I know why you're here, little brother. You just had
to see the war, didn't you. You want to watch
men die while you sit safely on the hill.
Speaker 1 (19:20):
David's blood boiled, the insults, the belittling. It had been
this way all his life. But today he wasn't in
the pasture. Today he wasn't going to take it. David lunged,
shoving a Liab back. His older brother caught him by
the arm and threw him to the ground.
Speaker 2 (19:42):
Stay down, runt.
Speaker 1 (19:44):
David spat dirt from his mouth and stood again. A
Liab raised a finger.
Speaker 4 (19:50):
You don't belong here, and you do what have you done?
That uncircumcised philisity marks our God and you've done nothing, sure.
Speaker 2 (20:00):
Like you'd faith him. You all talk, David, all those
stories about slaying lions is off for show to impress father.
But I have news for you. Nobody is impressed. You
were born in iniquity and you'll always be the runt
of the litter.
Speaker 1 (20:18):
David said nothing, but he didn't have to. There was
a fire in his eyes that caused Aliab to step back.
David nodded to himself, as if he had resolved something
in his mind. David turned his back on him without
another word. He marched towards Saul's tent. Saul paced like
(20:45):
a caged animal inside his tent, his fingers twitching, his
mind circling the same problem over and over again. Goliath
had made fools of them.
Speaker 2 (20:56):
Forty days, forty damn days, weds, mockery, a fear of
waking to the taunts of a beast.
Speaker 1 (21:06):
Saul was angry that no one, not even himself, would
step forward. He had promised riches, his daughter's hand in marriage,
a life free from taxes, and still not a single
warrior dared answer the challenge. Habnah stood beside him, arms folded, silent.
(21:27):
Saul sank onto his throne, rubbing his temples.
Speaker 2 (21:31):
The giant has made a morckery of us, and yet
there is nothing we can do about it. We have
run out of time, my king. If we wait any longer,
you will march against us in the night. We cannot
I know what they're capable of.
Speaker 1 (21:52):
Saul snapped, hurling his cup against the wooden beams of
the tent. The room fell silent. Saul exhalesiled sharply and
ran a hand through his beard. He lifted a hand apologetically,
shaking his head.
Speaker 2 (22:07):
We are at an impasse, our men or without hope.
They are without something to inspire them to battle.
Speaker 1 (22:18):
He stared at the fire burning in the center of
the tent. He remembered another fire long ago, when he
had sat beside Samuel his kingdom knew his anointing fresh.
Speaker 2 (22:31):
We need some sort of spark.
Speaker 1 (22:35):
Just then, the tent flaps burst open. David strode in.
Saul blinked in surprise, then relieved, he forced a smile.
Speaker 2 (22:46):
Ah, young David, you've come at the perfect time. He
could all use some music to calm our nerves.
Speaker 1 (22:56):
David did not touch his lyre. Instead, he bowed to
the floor, beating his fist against his chest.
Speaker 4 (23:03):
My King, let no man's heart lose hope because of
this giant. I will go and fight the Philistine.
Speaker 1 (23:10):
For a moment, there was only silence. Then the men
around Saul chuckled, shaking their heads. Saul stood and took
David by the arm, lifting him from the ground. He
dusted off the boy's tunic with a wry smile.
Speaker 2 (23:26):
Sure that you are are filled with fire, no, David,
But what sort of king would I be to send
a boy against a giant? You are young, and that
monster has been killing entire clan since he was your age, no,
no doubt, feasting on their flesh.
Speaker 1 (23:43):
David stepped back and bowed his head.
Speaker 4 (23:45):
My king, are you familiar with the role of a shepherd?
Speaker 2 (23:49):
Of course, my father had fox of his own. A
shepherd leads his sheep, takes them to green pastures and water.
Speaker 4 (23:56):
That is part of it. But the shepherd's first duty
is to protect his flock at all costs.
Speaker 1 (24:02):
Saul crossed his arms. The room stirred uncomfortably. David's voice
did not waver.
Speaker 4 (24:09):
When a lion came from my land, I ran after it.
I did not hesitate when it tried to escape. I
climbed the cliffs to retrieve my sheep from its jaws,
and when it turned on me, I struck it down
with my bare hands. A good shepherd lays down his
life for his sheep.
Speaker 1 (24:26):
The man shifted again. David pointed toward the valley, toward
the Philistine horde. His mouth curled into a slight grin
his eyes, gleaming.
Speaker 4 (24:38):
This philistine is no greater than that lion. He comes
into our land, threatens God's flock, bears his teeth and roars.
He's defiled the armies of the Living God and made
a mockery of him. And I will strike him down,
just as I struck down the lion, not by my
own strength, but by mite of the Lord.
Speaker 1 (25:01):
Saul's breath quickened. It had been a long time since
he had felt the fire of the spirit, a long
time since he had heard that passion, that unwavering certainty,
and now coming from a boy of all people, it
was bursting forth like a mighty tempest. The King stared
(25:22):
at David for a long moment. Then Saul smiled.
Speaker 2 (25:27):
Very well, go, then the Lord be with you.
Speaker 1 (25:31):
Gasps echoed through the tent.
Speaker 2 (25:33):
My King, you can't be serious.
Speaker 7 (25:36):
You've just commissioned a boy no older than sixteen to
fight the greatest warrior the world had ever seen.
Speaker 2 (25:43):
I don't see you rising up to fight Abner. And
if the Philistines are going to attack us anyways, why
not give ourselves a chance with this boy who knows
what the Lord may do.
Speaker 1 (25:59):
Saul's blood was alight with something he had not felt
in years.
Speaker 2 (26:03):
You will need help, of course, the finest armor Israel
has to offer, A drew warrior's weapon.
Speaker 1 (26:10):
He turned and took his own armor from its stand,
the golden plates, the heavy coat of mail, the helmet
of bronze. Carefully, he placed them over David's shoulders. The
boy's knees nearly buckled under the weight. Saul smiled at him,
fastening the clasps.
Speaker 2 (26:32):
There, that should do it.
Speaker 1 (26:35):
David took a step forward, then another, then he stopped.
David was nearly swimming in Saul's armor. It didn't fit,
and even if it did fit, it didn't feel right.
David was not sore. The shepherd boy took a few
more steps, slow and stiff, Then without a word, he
(26:58):
unbuckled the straps. The armor clattered to the floor. David
removed the helmet and placed the sword back in Saul's hands.
He bowed his head.
Speaker 4 (27:09):
My Kingio, your armor is splendid, but have not tested it,
and for all its beautia, I fear it's more of
a hindrance than a defense.
Speaker 2 (27:20):
Don't be foolish, boy. You need a real weapon, you
need real armor. No, I don't.
Speaker 1 (27:29):
David gripped his staff, his sling rested at his belt.
Speaker 4 (27:33):
These will be my weapons. The Lord has done far more,
far less.
Speaker 1 (27:39):
And with that the shepherd turned and left the tent.
Saul stood frozen, fingers trailing over the golden plates of
his armor. For all the wealth, the splendor, the appearance
of power, what good had it done? David departed for
the banks of the river, eyes ignited with righteous fury.
(28:04):
Israel had It's champion.
Speaker 6 (28:10):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her review. We read them, and me personally I
cherish them as you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers six Iva
Hashem vishmerechra Yeah Heir hashempanave elera y sa hashempanave lera.
Speaker 1 (28:39):
Shalon.
Speaker 6 (28:41):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you. Made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (28:52):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with you.
Isle Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the
prey dot Com app today. This Prey dog comproduction is
only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents.
Steve Katina, Max Bard, Zach Shellabager and Ben Gammon are
(29:12):
the executive producers of The Chosen People with Yiel Eckstein,
Edited by Alberto Avilla, narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are
voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan,
Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and
(29:32):
the opening prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music by
Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and
Chris Baig. Special thanks to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin van Ettin, KAYLEB. Burrows,
Jocelyn Fuller, and the team at International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews. You can hear more Prey dot Com productions
(29:53):
on the Prey dot Com app, available on the Apple
App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed The
Chosen b People with Yail Egstein, please rate and leave
a review,
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