When I think about some of the most intriguing and mysterious figures mentioned in the Bible, the giants immediately come to mind. These towering beings, shrouded in mystery, have captivated the imaginations of many over the centuries. The Bible provides us with glimpses of these giants, but it also leaves us with more questions than answers. How tall were they, really? Were they as enormous as some of the descriptions suggest, or is there something deeper at play here?

In this post, I will try to cover the biblical accounts of these giants, examining both their physical stature and the symbolism that might be woven into their stories. We’ll look at what the scriptures say, consider different interpretations, and explore what these giants represent in the grand narrative of the Bible.

Whether you’ve always wondered about the literal height of Goliath or are curious about the mysterious Nephilim mentioned in Genesis, I hope to shed some light on these fascinating figures. So, let’s embark on this journey together and see what we can uncover about the giants in the Bible.

Giants in the Bible – An Overview

When I first started exploring the stories of giants in the Bible, I quickly realized that the term “giants” is more than just a reference to physical size. The word often conjures up images of massive, towering figures, but in the context of the Bible, it can represent both literal and symbolic concepts.

Defining “Giants” in the Bible

In biblical terms, the word “giants” translates from several Hebrew words, most notably “Nephilim” and “Rephaim.” These terms are used to describe individuals or groups of people who were either of great physical stature or had significant power and influence. The most well-known of these are the Nephilim, mentioned in Genesis, and Goliath, who faced off against David.

But what does the Bible really mean when it talks about giants? Are we to understand these figures as literal giants, or is there a deeper meaning behind the term? In my experience, the answer might be a bit of both.

Key References to Giants in the Bible

The Bible references giants in several places, with the most prominent examples being:

• The Nephilim (Genesis 6:4): The first mention of giants in the Bible comes early in Genesis, where the Nephilim are described as the offspring of “the sons of God” and “the daughters of men.” This brief passage has sparked endless debate about who these giants were and what they represent.
• Goliath (1 Samuel 17:4): Perhaps the most famous giant in the Bible, Goliath’s story is well-known. His height is described as “six cubits and a span,” which we’ll look at later. Goliath wasn’t just tall—he was a warrior, symbolizing the formidable enemies that Israel faced.
• King Og of Bashan (Deuteronomy 3:11): Another giant mentioned is King Og of Bashan, who was said to have a bed made of iron that measured over 13 feet long. This detail hints at his immense size and strength.

Cultural and Historical Context of Giants

Understanding the cultural and historical context in which these stories were written can help us better grasp what the Bible might be communicating. In the ancient Near East, tales of giants were not unique to Israel. Many surrounding cultures had their own legends of enormous beings—whether gods, heroes, or monsters—who walked the Earth.

These stories often symbolized something more than just physical size; they represented power, chaos, or the otherworldly. So, when the Bible mentions giants, it’s possible that these figures were intended to convey not just their literal size, but their symbolic importance as well.

As we continue with this exploration of the bible’s giants, I’ll be considering both the literal descriptions and the potential symbolic meanings, to better understand what these figures represented in the biblical narrative.

Scriptural Descriptions of Giants

When I look into the specific accounts of giants in the Bible, I’m always struck by the vividness and the mystery that surrounds them. The Bible gives us several key descriptions of giants, each with its own unique context and significance. If we examine these scriptural references closely, we can begin to piece together a clearer picture of how tall these giants might have been and what they represented.

The Nephilim (Genesis 6:1-4)

The first mention of giants in the Bible occurs in Genesis 6:1-4, with the enigmatic reference to the Nephilim. The passage reads:

The Nephilim were on the earth in those days—and also afterward—when the sons of God went to the daughters of humans and had children by them. They were the heroes of old, men of renown. (Genesis 6:4, NIV)

The term “Nephilim” is often translated as “giants,” but it’s important to note that the exact meaning of the word is somewhat unclear. Some scholars believe it comes from the Hebrew root npl, meaning “to fall,” suggesting that these beings were “fallen ones.” This has led to various interpretations, including the idea that the Nephilim were either fallen angels or their offspring, with extraordinary physical and perhaps spiritual characteristics.

While Genesis doesn’t provide a specific height for the Nephilim, the reference to them as “heroes of old, men of renown” implies they were both physically impressive and held a significant status in the ancient world. Their size and strength seem to have set them apart, creating an aura of awe and fear.

Goliath (1 Samuel 17:4)

No discussion of giants in the Bible would be complete without mentioning Goliath. His story is perhaps the most detailed account of a giant’s physical characteristics:

A champion named Goliath, who was from Gath, came out of the Philistine camp. His height was six cubits and a span. (1 Samuel 17:4, NIV)

To put this in modern terms, a cubit is generally considered to be about 18 inches, and a span about 9 inches. This would make Goliath approximately 9 feet 9 inches tall—a truly towering figure, even by today’s standards. Goliath’s height wasn’t just a random detail; it was a key element in the story of David and Goliath, emphasizing the incredible odds David faced.

However, it’s worth noting that some ancient manuscripts, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Septuagint, list Goliath’s height as four cubits and a span, which would be around 6 feet 9 inches. Even at this height, people would have considered Goliath an imposing figure during his time.

King Og of Bashan (Deuteronomy 3:11)

Another intriguing mention of a giant comes from Deuteronomy 3:11, where we read about King Og of Bashan:

For only Og king of Bashan was left of the remnant of the Rephaim. Behold, his bedstead was a bedstead of iron. Is it not in Rabbah of the sons of Ammon? Nine cubits was its length and four cubits its width, according to the common cubit. (Deuteronomy 3:11, NASB)

The description of Og’s bed being nine cubits long and four cubits wide (roughly 13.5 feet by 6 feet) suggests that Og himself must have been of enormous size, although the exact height of Og is not specified in the text. The mention of a bed of iron emphasizes not only its size but also its strength, implying that Og was a giant of considerable power and stature.

Other Giants: The Anakim (Numbers 13:33)

The Anakim are another group of giants mentioned in the Bible. When the Israelite spies were sent to scout the land of Canaan, they reported:

We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them. (Numbers 13:33, NIV)

This passage doesn’t give an exact measurement but conveys the sheer size of these giants compared to the Israelites. The phrase “we seemed like grasshoppers” is likely hyperbolic, emphasizing the overwhelming presence and size of the Anakim.

Interpreting the Heights of Biblical Giants

While the Bible provides some specific measurements, such as Goliath’s height and the size of Og’s bed, the descriptions of other giants like the Nephilim and Anakim are more vague and symbolic. These varying accounts leave room for different interpretations, which I’ll explore further in the next section. Whether we take these descriptions literally or see them as symbolic, one thing is clear: these giants represented formidable challenges and obstacles, both physically and spiritually, for the people of Israel.

Interpreting the Heights – Literal or Figurative?

While studying the giants mentioned in the Bible, I found myself faced with an intriguing question: should we take these descriptions of height and size literally, or is there a deeper, more symbolic meaning behind them? The Bible is a rich mixture of history, poetry, prophecy, and teaching, and its language often reflects this complexity. When it comes to the giants, both literal and figurative interpretations offer valuable insights.

Literal Interpretation: Giant Stature in Ancient Times

If we take the descriptions of giants in the Bible at face value, we’re looking at individuals who were truly massive by any standard. Goliath, for example, standing at approximately 9 feet 9 inches (or even 6 feet 9 inches in some texts), would have been an imposing figure, especially at a time when the average height was much shorter.

There are historical and archaeological records from various cultures that suggest that unusually tall individuals did exist in ancient times. Skeletal remains and historical accounts have documented people who were well over 7 feet tall. In some cases, these individuals may have suffered from conditions like gigantism, which could explain their extraordinary height.

The Bible’s descriptions might therefore be taken as literal accounts of such individuals—real giants who walked the earth and posed significant threats because of their size and strength. The literal interpretation emphasizes the physical challenges that the Israelites and others faced, underscoring the miraculous nature of their victories over these seemingly insurmountable foes.

Figurative Interpretation: Symbolism and Hyperbole

On the other hand, the Bible is known for its use of symbolic language and hyperbole, particularly in its poetic and prophetic books. The giants could represent more than just their physical height—they could symbolize overwhelming obstacles, terrifying enemies, or the embodiment of evil and chaos.

Take, for example, the report of the Israelite spies in Numbers 13:33. The spies describe themselves as “grasshoppers” in comparison to the Anakim. This language might be intended to convey their fear and sense of inadequacy rather than to provide a precise measurement of height. The giants, in this sense, could symbolize the enormous challenges that lay ahead for the Israelites in conquering the Promised Land.

In this figurative interpretation, the giants are still powerful and imposing, but their size is not the main point. Instead, the focus is on the psychological and spiritual challenges they represent. Overcoming giants like Goliath or the Anakim could then be seen as metaphors for overcoming fear, doubt, and seemingly impossible odds through faith in God.

Scholarly Perspectives: Diverse Interpretations

Looking at the writings of biblical scholars, I find a range of interpretations regarding the giants. Some scholars lean heavily on a literal reading, particularly when they discuss the historical and archaeological context of ancient Near Eastern texts. They argue that the giants were real, physical beings whose extraordinary size was recorded accurately by the biblical authors.

Others suggest that the descriptions of giants were exaggerated or symbolic, meant to convey the overwhelming power and danger these figures posed. This perspective often ties into broader interpretations of biblical narratives, where the focus is less on literal details and more on the theological or moral lessons being taught.

There’s also a middle ground that recognizes the possibility of both literal and symbolic elements in these stories. For example, Goliath could have been a real warrior of significant height, whose defeat by David also carries symbolic weight as the triumph of faith over fear.

My Reflections on Literal vs. Figurative Interpretation

Personally, I find value in both approaches. The literal interpretation highlights the physical reality of the challenges faced by God’s people, reminding us that sometimes, the obstacles we face are very real and tangible. The figurative interpretation, on the other hand, encourages us to look beyond the physical and consider the deeper spiritual truths that these stories convey.

When it comes to understanding the giants in the Bible, I believe that embracing both the literal and figurative interpretations allows us to fully appreciate the richness of these narratives. Whether they were towering figures of flesh and blood or symbolic representations of overwhelming challenges, the giants of the Bible serve as powerful reminders of God’s strength and the importance of faith in overcoming life’s obstacles.

Theological Significance of Giants in the Bible

I have come to realize that the significance of giants in the bible goes far beyond their physical stature. The giants serve as powerful symbols within the biblical narrative, representing more than just their towering height. They embody the challenges, fears, and opposition that God’s people faced, and their stories are rich with theological meaning.

Giants as Symbols of Opposition

One of the most striking aspects of the giants in the Bible is how they often appear as formidable opponents to God’s people. Whether it’s the Nephilim before the Flood, the Anakim in Canaan, or Goliath facing off against David, these giants symbolize the overwhelming forces of opposition that the Israelites encountered.

In the story of David and Goliath, for instance, Goliath is not just a physically imposing enemy; he represents the Philistine threat and the fear that paralyzed the Israelite army. David’s victory over Goliath is a powerful illustration of how faith in God can overcome even the most daunting adversaries. It’s not just a story about a boy defeating a giant; it’s a lesson in trusting God’s power to deliver us from our fears and challenges.

Moral and Spiritual Lessons from the Giants

The giants in the Bible also teach us important moral and spiritual lessons. Consider the story of the Israelite spies in Numbers 13. When the spies returned from scouting the land of Canaan, they were terrified by the giants they saw there, and their fear spread throughout the Israelite camp. This fear led to a lack of faith and obedience, causing the Israelites to wander in the wilderness for 40 years.

The giants in this story serve as a test of faith. The Israelites had to choose between trusting God’s promise to give them the land or succumbing to their fear of the giants. Unfortunately, they chose the latter, which led to severe consequences. This narrative reminds us of the importance of faith and obedience, even when we face overwhelming odds.

Giants as Representations of Evil and Chaos

In some interpretations, the giants also represent the forces of evil and chaos that stand in opposition to God’s order. The Nephilim, for example, are sometimes viewed as part of the moral corruption that led to the Flood. Their presence on Earth is seen as a sign of the breakdown of the created order, contributing to the wickedness that grieved God and led to the judgment of the Flood.

Similarly, the Rephaim and Anakim, often linked with the Nephilim, are sometimes interpreted as remnants of this chaotic, pre-Flood world. Their presence in the land of Canaan could symbolize the persistent threat of evil that the Israelites had to overcome as they established themselves in the Promised Land.

God’s Power Over the Giants

Above all, the stories of giants in the Bible highlight the theme of God’s sovereignty and power. No matter how tall or powerful these giants were, they were ultimately defeated by God’s people through divine intervention. Whether it’s the Flood wiping out the Nephilim, David defeating Goliath, or the Israelites eventually conquering the land of Canaan, these victories underscore the message that God is greater than any obstacle we face.

The giants remind us that no challenge is too great for God. When we encounter “giants” in our own lives—whether they’re physical challenges, emotional struggles, or spiritual battles—we can find encouragement in these stories. They remind us that with faith in God, we can overcome even the most intimidating adversaries.

Reflecting on the Giants’ Theological Significance

As I reflect on the giants of the Bible, I see them as more than just characters in ancient stories. They are profound symbols of the challenges and opposition we face in our spiritual journeys. Their presence in the biblical narrative invites us to trust in God’s power, to remain faithful in the face of fear, and to recognize that even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome with His help.

In the end, the giants in the Bible point us back to the greatness of God and the importance of faith. They remind us that no matter how large or powerful our enemies may seem, they are no match for the God who created the heavens and the earth.

Giants in Extrabiblical Literature and Mythology

I became curious about how the giants in the bible compare to similar beings in other ancient texts and mythologies. Giants appear not only in the Bible but also in the stories and legends of many cultures throughout history. If we examine these extrabiblical sources, we can gain a broader understanding of how the concept of giants was perceived in the ancient world and how it influenced the biblical narratives.

Giants in Ancient Near Eastern Texts

The ancient Near East, the cultural and geographical context in which the Bible was written, is rich with tales of giants and other large beings. One of the most famous examples is the Epic of Gilgamesh, a Mesopotamian poem that predates the Bible. Gilgamesh, the hero of the epic, is often described as a giant of immense strength and stature, though his exact size varies depending on the version of the story.

In some versions, Gilgamesh’s height is said to be “eleven cubits” (over 16 feet tall), marking him as a figure of both physical and heroic proportions. This portrayal of Gilgamesh as a giant underscores his superhuman qualities and his ability to perform extraordinary feats, much like the biblical giants.

Greek Mythology and the Giants

Greek mythology is also replete with stories of giants, most notably the Gigantes, a race of giants born from Gaia (the Earth) who waged war against the Olympian gods. The Gigantomachy, the battle between the Gigantes and the gods, was a central theme in Greek mythology, symbolizing the struggle between order (the gods) and chaos (the giants).

The Gigantes were depicted as massive, fearsome beings, often with serpentine legs, and they were considered a threat to the divine order. Their defeat by the gods symbolized the triumph of civilization and divine authority over the primal forces of nature and disorder. This theme of giants representing chaos or opposition to divine order is also present in the biblical narratives, particularly in the story of the Nephilim.

Giants in Apocryphal and Pseudepigraphal Texts

Beyond the canonical Bible, giants are mentioned in various apocryphal and pseudepigraphal texts, which were not included in the official canon but still offer fascinating insights. One of the most notable examples is the Book of Enoch, an ancient Jewish text that expands on the story of the Nephilim mentioned in Genesis.

In the Book of Enoch, the Nephilim are described as the offspring of angels (referred to as the “Watchers”) and human women. These giants are said to have been enormous in size—some accounts suggest they were as tall as 300 cubits (about 450 feet!). While these measurements are likely hyperbolic, they highlight the perceived enormity and power of these beings.

The Book of Enoch goes on to describe how the Nephilim brought violence and corruption to the earth, leading to God’s judgment through the Flood. This portrayal of the Nephilim as both giants and harbingers of chaos aligns with their depiction in the Bible and reinforces the idea that they symbolized the breakdown of the divine order.

Comparative Analysis: Common Themes and Differences

When I compare the giants of the Bible with those in other ancient traditions, I notice both similarities and differences. Across these cultures, giants are often portrayed as beings of immense power and size, representing forces of chaos, opposition, or challenge. Whether in Mesopotamian epics, Greek mythology, or Jewish apocryphal texts, giants frequently stand in contrast to the divine or the heroic, symbolizing obstacles that must be overcome.

Nevertheless, there are also significant differences. For example, while the Gigantes in Greek mythology are depicted as monstrous beings with serpentine features, the giants in the Bible and Jewish tradition are more human-like, albeit with extraordinary size and strength. This human-like depiction in the Bible may emphasize the giants’ role as corrupted beings who once had a connection to the divine but fell from grace, as seen in the story of the Nephilim.

Theological Implications of Extrabiblical Giants

Reflecting on these extrabiblical accounts, I see that they offer valuable context for understanding the giants in the Bible. They show us that the concept of giants as powerful, often malevolent beings was widespread in the ancient world. These stories likely influenced and were influenced by the biblical narratives, creating a shared cultural framework within which the biblical authors and their audiences understood the world.

The giants in these stories, both biblical and extrabiblical, serve as reminders of the ever-present struggle between good and evil, order and chaos, divine will and human rebellion. They are larger-than-life figures who, whether real or symbolic, challenge us to consider the ways in which we confront the “giants” in our own lives.

Conclusion

As I’ve journeyed through the biblical accounts of giants, I’ve come to appreciate just how much these towering figures contribute to the richness of the Bible’s narrative. Whether we consider the giants like Goliath and the Nephilim as literal beings of immense stature or as symbolic representations of the overwhelming challenges faced by God’s people, one thing is clear: they serve as powerful reminders of the importance of faith, courage, and reliance on God’s strength.

These giants, whether real or figurative, are more than just characters in ancient stories—they are lessons woven into the fabric of scripture. They remind us that no obstacle, no matter how insurmountable it may seem, is too great for God to overcome. Just as David faced Goliath with nothing but a sling and faith in God, we too can face the “giants” in our lives, confident that we are not alone in our battles.

As you reflect on these stories, I encourage you to think about the giants you may be facing today. What challenges seem too big, too daunting to overcome? How might the lessons from these ancient stories inspire you to confront those challenges with renewed faith?

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Have you ever encountered a “giant” in your own life? How did your faith help you overcome it? Please feel free to share your insights, reflections, or any questions you may have in the comments below. Let’s continue the conversation and explore these fascinating biblical stories together.

Further Reading and Resources:

• Michael S. Heiser, The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible (2015). This book explores supernatural beings in the Bible, including the Nephilim and giants, from a scholarly perspective, focusing on their theological significance .
• John H. Walton, Ancient Near Eastern Thought and the Old Testament: Introducing the Conceptual World of the Hebrew Bible (2006). Walton provides background on ancient Near Eastern literature and mythology, which can help understand the Nephilim and other giants in their cultural context.
• Adrienne Mayor, The First Fossil Hunters: Dinosaurs, Mammoths, and Myth in Greek and Roman Times (2001). This book explores the idea that myths of giants may be linked to the discovery of large bones, providing a unique angle on the origin of giant stories in the ancient world, including biblical texts.
• Brian Godawa, When Giants Were Upon the Earth: The Watchers, the Nephilim, and the Biblical Cosmic War of the Seed (2014). This book delves into the biblical and historical accounts of the Nephilim, exploring their connection to supernatural beings and ancient wars.

Articles:

• Billington, Clyde E. “Goliath and the Exodus Giants: How Tall Were They?” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, vol. 50, no. 3, 2007, pp. 489-508.
  This scholarly article examines the historical and textual evidence for the height of biblical giants, especially Goliath, and offers detailed measurements based on ancient texts .