When Israel against Philistia
War wagèd under Saul,
A giant in their host they saw,
Whom they Goliath call.

In height he others did surpass,
In strength he did excel;
He had a head-piece all of brass,
And he with pride did swell.

Who marching to their tents doth boast
And insolently cry,
With the best captains in their host
His courage he will try.

The Israelites were in great fear,
And trembling at his voice,
Which made their enemies scoff and jeer,
And over them rejoice.

Thus proud Goliath oft doth vaunt,
And challenge them to fight,
But Israel's generals courage want,
To meet this man of might.

When David came into the host,
And heard his blasphemies,
Displeased he should thus huff and boast
‘I'll fight with him,’ he cries.

Goliath doth this youth despise,
Swears he will have his life;
David as valiantly replies,
His death shall end the strife.

Goliath came with sword and spear,
But David with a sling;
And though the giant rage and swear,
Down David doth him bring.

He only slings a little stone,
And therewith lays him dead;
Which done, he bravely marches on,
And then cuts off his head.