Gath

CityOld Testament

31.6119°N, 34.8467°E View on Map

Gath was one of the five major Philistine cities and the home of Goliath, the giant warrior who defied Israel. David fled to Gath to escape Saul and pretended to be insane before King Achish. The city was eventually conquered by David. The phrase "Tell it not in Gath" comes from David's lament over Saul and Jonathan.

Historical Timeline

Period of the Judgesc. 1100 BC

Goliath of Gath challenges Israel

1 Samuel 17:4

United Kingdomc. 1013 BC

David flees to Gath and pretends insanity before King Achish

1 Samuel 21:10-15

Notable Characters

GoliathGiant warrior from Gath who defied Israel

DavidFled to Gath to escape Saul

Biblical Significance

City of Giants

Gath was home to the Anakim, descendants of giants. Goliath's defeat by David demonstrated that Israel's God was greater than the Philistine gods and their mightiest warriors.

Key Verses

1 Samuel 17:4 1 Samuel 21:10-15 2 Samuel 1:20

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'Tell it not in Gath' mean?+

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