“THEN David thrust his hand into his bag and took a stone from there and slung it, so that he struck the Philistine in his forehead and the stone sank into his forehead, and he went falling upon his face to the earth.” (1 Sam. 17:49) This famous exploit, one of the most dramatic incidents recorded in the Bible, well illustrates the power of the sling. With one stone, young David felled the giant Goliath, powerful champion of the Philistines.

The outcome of that renowned fight depended, not on weapon superiority or skill, but upon Jehovah God, who supported young David. Before the encounter, David said: “I am coming to you with the name of Jehovah of armies, . . . whom you have taunted. . . . And all this congregation will know that neither with sword nor with spear does Jehovah save, because to Jehovah belongs the battle.” Doubtless the stone from David’s sling was guided and given unusual force by God. It sank into Goliath’s forehead, striking down the giant. Thereafter, David “definitely put him to death” by means of Goliath’s own sword.​—1 Sam. 17:45-51.

Even though David had God’s help in this conflict, the sling certainly played a significant part.

Smooth stones are usually used as missiles. David chose this type when he went to meet Goliath. (1 Sam. 17:40) Stones about two and a half inches (6.3 centimeters) in diameter are the most suitable. But slingstones can vary considerably in size.