[17:1] The Philistines gathered for battle in Socoh, a town in Judah; they camped at a place called Ephes Dammim, between Socoh and Azekah.
[17:2] Saul and the Israelites assembled and camped in Elah Valley, where they got ready to fight the Philistines.
[17:3] The Philistines lined up on one hill and the Israelites on another, with a valley between them.
[17:4] A man named Goliath, from the city of Gath, came out from the Philistine camp to challenge the Israelites. He was over nine feet tall
[17:5] and wore bronze armor that weighed about 125 pounds and a bronze helmet.
[17:6] His legs were also protected by bronze armor, and he carried a bronze javelin slung over his shoulder.
[17:7] His spear was as thick as the bar on a weaver's loom, and its iron head weighed about fifteen pounds. A soldier walked in front of him carrying his shield.
[17:8] Goliath stood and shouted at the Israelites, “What are you doing there, lined up for battle? I am a Philistine, you slaves of Saul! Choose one of your men to fight me.
[17:9] If he wins and kills me, we will be your slaves; but if I win and kill him, you will be our slaves.
[17:10] Here and now I challenge the Israelite army. I dare you to pick someone to fight me!”
[17:11] When Saul and his men heard this, they were terrified.