Definition: And the king said, Inquire thou whose son the stripling [is].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 17:56. It's a really important and dramatic moment in the story of David and Goliath! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: Goliath is a giant. In ancient times, Goliath was a powerful warrior who terrorized Israel. He was incredibly strong and skilled with a massive club. David is a young shepherd. David was a man of courage and faith, but he was also considered a little inexperienced compared to the giants. What happened next: Goliath challenges David. Goliath sends his army to challenge David. He’s essentially sending a huge force to try and kill him. David refuses to fight. Instead of fighting back with his own strength, David says he will not fight Goliath. He’s choosing to stand his ground against the giant. The Verse Explained: “And the king said, Inquire thou whose son the stripling [is].” This is a crucial part of the story. It means: "Inquire thou..." – David is asking a very specific question. He’s not just any inquiry; he's looking for the rightful owner of the child. "...whose son?" – He's asking, "Who is the boy whose father is Saul?" What does this tell us? This verse reveals a shocking and significant truth: Goliath’s son was actually Saul, David's own father! This was a huge deal because it meant that Goliath wasn't a random giant; he was connected to the lineage of David himself. It highlights a deep connection between the two men. Why is this important? It shows David’s bravery. David didn’t just stand up against a powerful enemy; he challenged a situation that seemed insurmountable. It demonstrates David's faith. He chose to defy a giant, relying on his God-given abilities and his own courage. It sets the stage for the epic battle. The verse foreshadows the immense conflict that would follow – a battle between good and evil, and ultimately, the triumph of God’s chosen one. In short, this verse is a pivotal moment where David's faith and courage are revealed as crucial to defeating an enemy. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the symbolism behind this verse?