Why did David and Goliath fight?

Answer 1

Quite frankly I don't think they ever fought. There were a lot of verbal challenges and name-calling. When David finally entered the scene, he picked up 5 stones from the valley; David made a little speech, and headed straight over toward Goliath; and slung the first stone right into Goliath's forehead. The dude dropped like a flat cake. The fight ended before it got started. David cut off his head with Goliath's own sword. And the other guys all scattered like quail every-which-way. Now that's the way it's done.

ANSWER:

The complete answer is found in 1 Samuel 17. Here one can read that the Philistines were encroaching upon Judean lands (verse 3). These Philistines put forth a 'champion' (a Hebrew expression for 'a go-between' or warrior who will fight a single combat as a stand-in for the entire armies). Now begins the great story of faith of David who had just defeated a lion and bear a short time before this and this probably gave him faith to trust God for victory over Goliath (Philistine champion).

We read in verse 45-47, that David would go before Goliath in the NAME OF THE LORD OF HOST, the God of the armies of Israel. Host here refers to God as Commander over the armies of heaven and Israel via the covenatal relationship with the Israelites. David was depending upon the power of God as the Warrior and Defender of His people as Exodus 15:3 states.

Now David as Israel's champion appeared as a shepherd boy chasing a dog or wolf away from his flock vis-a-vis Goliath who stood nearly 10 foot tall in full battle gear. Yet, in verse 48 we read how David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. He took out a stone and slung it, striking Goliath in the forehead, killing him. Then David, not having a sword, took Goliath's sword and cut off his head. When the Philistines saw this improbable if not impossible outcome for their champion by the champion of Israel, they fled.

Complete reading comprehension requires a full reading of the events described in chapter 17. The word fight has shades of meanings but the one in your question suggest:

• A confrontation between opposing groups in which each attempts to harm or gain power over the other, as with bodily force or weapons.
• A quarrel or conflict.

Being such, the above answer does fully satisfy this question. However, it is strongly suggested that you read and study Scripture directly and not depend on anyone for answers. You and you alone are responsible for your Salvation. Have a good read :)

Answer 2

David challenges Goliath, not the other way around. He did this because every morning Goliath wanted to fight the toughest warrior, and David said he would go. Every won laughed at David, but he sure rocked Goliath!

read 1 Samuel 17

Answer 3

He was running away from King Saul who had vowed to kill him out of jealousy. He approached the king of Gath but became afraid by what the men were saying about him to the king, so he pretended to be insane.