What does 1 Samuel 17:41 mean?

The Israelites and Philistines have been facing off for war (1 Samuel 17:1–3). A Philistine giant, Goliath, has challenged Israel to champion warfare—one representative from each side would battle to determine the victorious nation (1 Samuel 17:4–10). So far, Israel has produced no champion (1 Samuel 17:11, 24), despite the promise of great reward (1 Samuel 17:25). The giant is more than intimidating—he is nearly ten feet tall, or about three meters, clad in body armor, and equipped with impressive weapons. But David, a part-time shepherd and part-time servant to King Saul (1 Samuel 16:14–23; 17:15), has volunteered (1 Samuel 17:31–37). David is confident God will bring the victory.

After trying the king's armor, David opts for his shepherd's gear instead (1 Samuel 17:38–40). As he approaches the Philistine, the Philistine also moves forward. Goliath is named only twice in the narrative (1 Samuel 17:4, 23), referred to otherwise simply as "the Philistine." This is perhaps to keep him from receiving any more respect in the text than is necessary. He has been shouting out challenges to the armies of Israel for forty days, every morning and evening (1 Samuel 17:16), demanding that the Israelites send out a man to fight him to death to decide the fate of the battle (1 Samuel 17:10). Until this moment, the response from the Israelites has been only fear and retreat (1 Samuel 17:11, 24).

Now, finally, someone approaches to answer Goliath's challenge. Goliath, along with the man who carries his massive shield, moves toward the apparent champion of Israel. Goliath is not impressed (1 Samuel 17:42).