According to the Masoretic Text of the Old Testament1 Goliath was six cubits and a span tall, 3.2 metres (9 feet, 6 inches), if measured by the 18 inch cubit, and 3.5 metres (just over 11 feet), if the 21 inch cubit is used. This is a height which is not only highly unlikely for any Iron Age man,2 but far beyond what would have been considered a giant at the time.
The New English Translation (2005), describes Goliath’s height as just under seven feet, significantly below the traditional height.3 A footnote in the NET explains the textual basis on which the translation committee made its decision.4
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Author: Jon Burke
Keywords: Acromegaly, Goliath, Goliath giant, David Goliath, Giant, How tall was Goliath, Height of Goliath
Bible reference(s): 1 Samuel 17:4-10, 1 Samuel 17:23, 1 Samuel 21:9, 1 Samuel 22:10, 2 Samuel 21:16, 2 Samuel 21:19-20, 2 Samuel 21:22, 1 Chronicles 20:4-6, 1 Chronicles 20:8
Source: “How Tall Was Goliath?”, Berea Portal.
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