Lexical Summary challuq: Garment, Tunic Original Word: חַלֻּק Strong's Exhaustive Concordance smooth From chalaq; smooth -- smooth. see HEBREW chalaq NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom chalaq Definition smooth NASB Translation smooth (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs [חַלֻּק] adjective smooth, only plural construct חַלֻּקֵי אֲבָנִים 1 Samuel 17:40 smooth ones of (among) stones = smooth (or smoothest ?) stones Ges§§ 132 R 2. 133, 3 DrSm. Topical Lexicon Occurrence and Narrative Setting The noun חַלֻּק (challuq, “smooth [stone]”) appears only once, in 1 Samuel 17:40, where David “selected five smooth stones from the brook” before stepping onto the field of Elah to confront Goliath. The single occurrence concentrates the word’s theological weight into the drama of that moment, binding its significance to the broader themes of covenant faith, divine empowerment, and the triumph of seemingly insignificant means over formidable enemies. Geological and Cultural Background The Valley of Elah is characterized by seasonal wadis strewn with water-worn stones. Continuous tumbling action rounds and polishes the stones, removing sharp edges and producing uniform shapes ideal for slinging. In the Bronze and Iron Ages, slingers formed an essential branch of light infantry; reliefs from Assyria and Egypt depict warriors with leather slings hurling similar projectiles. A well-balanced, smooth river stone could be propelled at lethal velocity—some estimates compare its striking force to a modern handgun. Selecting “smooth stones” was therefore not an improvisation born of poverty, but an informed choice of proven ammunition. Strategic Wisdom and Divine Reliance David’s action illustrates prudent preparation within unwavering reliance on the LORD. He does not charge Goliath empty-handed, nor does he place his confidence in conventional armor (1 Samuel 17:38–39). Instead, he employs familiar tools honed in private faithfulness. The smoothness of the stones underscores intentionality: rough, misshapen stones would veer off course, but well-rounded stones fly true. Scripture repeatedly marries careful means with divine sovereignty (Nehemiah 4:9; Acts 27:31). David’s choice models the harmony between responsible diligence and trust in God’s deliverance. Symbolic Overtones of “Smoothness” 1. Purity and refinement: Just as the brook removes jagged edges, so the LORD refines His servants (Psalm 66:10). Foreshadowing of Messianic Victory David’s sling stone anticipates the unexpected means by which God secures ultimate victory. The Messiah, like the humble stone, is despised by worldly standards yet ordained to topple the giant of sin and death (Isaiah 53:2–3; 1 Corinthians 1:27–29). The “stone the builders rejected” (Psalm 118:22) finds a faint echo in the hand-chosen stones of Elah, each meticulously prepared for a specific moment of redemptive history. Ministry and Discipleship Applications • Equipping saints: Leaders help believers identify the God-shaped “stones” in their pouch—spiritual gifts, Scripture, prayer—honed through regular practice (Ephesians 4:11–12). Comparative Scriptural Motifs • Stone imagery: From Jacob’s pillow at Bethel (Genesis 28:18) to the memorial at Gilgal (Joshua 4:20), stones mark decisive acts of God. David’s smooth stones join this litany, testifying that the LORD’s past faithfulness underwrites present courage. Practical Reflections for Today 1. Examine the “brook” of ordinary life—family, work, trials—for God-shaped instruments already being smoothed for future service. Conclusion Though חַלֻּק surfaces only once in Scripture, its solitary appearance is positioned at a pivotal turning point for Israel. The smooth stones of Elah remind every believer that God magnifies seemingly modest means, perfected through hidden, persistent shaping, to accomplish feats that confound the proud and exalt His name. Forms and Transliterations חַלֻּקֵֽי־ חלקי־ challukei ḥal·lu·qê- ḥalluqê-Links Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance 1 Samuel 17:40 HEB: ל֣וֹ חֲמִשָּׁ֣ה חַלֻּקֵֽי־ אֲבָנִ֣ים ׀ מִן־ NAS: for himself five smooth stones KJV: him five smooth stones INT: and chose five smooth stones from 1 Occurrence |
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