Goliath

Goliath
Biblical Figure
First Appearance:	First Book of Samuel
Creator:	Unknown
Nationality:	Philistines
Religion:	Polytheism, devoted to Dagon
Date of Birth:	11th century BC
Date of Death:	c. 1020 BC
Cause of Death:	Blow to the head in a duel
Occupation:	Soldier, Nobleman
Turtledove Appearances:

"Occupation Duty" POD: c. 1000 BCE
Type of Appearance:	Posthumous references
Date of Death:	Unrevealed

Goliath of Gath was a Philistine warrior described in chapter 17 of the First Book of Samuel, in both the Judaic and Christian versions of the Bible. The story is retold more briefly in the Qu'ran of Islam. The heavily favored Goliath was killed in combat by the amateur Israelite champion David of Bethlehem, allowing Israel to score a decisive victory over Philistia, and beginning David's rise to become the king who would lead Israel into a golden age.

"David and Goliath" is commonly used as an expression of an underdog triumphing in spite of overwhelming odds.

Goliath in "Occupation Duty"

In ancient times, Lord Goliath slew the Evraioi champion Tabitas in single combat and went on to capture Hierosolyma, leading to the Philistine conquest of the Moabites. Three thousand years later, the people of Philistinia were thankful for Goliath's accomplishments.