1 Samuel 17:2

Modern

Saul and the men of Israel assembled and camped in the Valley of Elah, arraying themselves for battle against the Philistines.

Traditional

And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines.

Literal

And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and they encamped in the Valley of Elah and arrayed for battle against the Philistines.

Latin

Porro Saul et filii Israël congregati venerunt in Vallem terebinthi, et direxerunt aciem ad pugnandum contra Philisthiim.

Hebrew

English

Saul and the men of Israel assembled and camped in the Valley of Elah, arraying themselves for battle against the Philistines.

The Valley of Elah was a fertile area running east to west, located 24 kilometers (15 miles) southwest of Bethlehem.

Theme notes and profiles

1 Samuel 21:9
The priest replied, “The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom you killed in the Valley of Elah, is here; it is wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod. If you want, you may take it. For there is no other but this one here.” And David said, “There is none like it; give it to me.”
1 Samuel 17:19
They are with Saul and all the men of Israel in the Valley of Elah, fighting against the Philistines.”

Israel: Patriarch, son of Isaac, father of twelve tribes Saul: First king of Israel, anointed by Samuel

Philistia: An ancient people and region in Canaan Valley of Elah: Site of David's victory over Goliath