Biblical Account:
Goliath, the Philistine giant from Gath, is a central figure in the biblical narrative of David's rise to prominence. The account of Goliath's defeat is found in 1 Samuel 17. Goliath, described as a champion of the Philistines, stood over nine feet tall and was heavily armored. He challenged the Israelites to send out a warrior to fight him in single combat, a challenge that was met with fear by the Israelite army.

David, a young shepherd boy, accepted the challenge, trusting in the LORD for victory. Armed only with a sling and five smooth stones, David confronted Goliath, declaring, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied" (1 Samuel 17:45). David struck Goliath on the forehead with a stone, causing the giant to fall face down to the ground. David then used Goliath's own sword to behead him, securing a decisive victory for Israel.

Symbolism and Significance:
The beheading of Goliath holds significant symbolic meaning within the biblical narrative. It represents the triumph of faith and divine power over human strength and arrogance. David's victory over Goliath is often seen as a foreshadowing of God's deliverance of His people through seemingly weak and humble means. The act of beheading also served as a tangible sign of victory, demoralizing the Philistine army and leading to their defeat.

Aftermath and Display:
Following the victory, David took Goliath's head to Jerusalem. The text states, "David took the head of the Philistine and brought it to Jerusalem, but he put Goliath’s weapons in his own tent" (1 Samuel 17:54). The display of Goliath's head in Jerusalem served as a powerful testament to God's deliverance and the legitimacy of David's anointing as the future king of Israel. It also acted as a morale booster for the Israelites and a warning to their enemies.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, the account of Goliath's head underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and the importance of faith. It illustrates that victory belongs to the LORD and that He can use the most unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes. David's reliance on God rather than conventional weapons of war highlights the biblical principle that "the battle is the LORD’s" (1 Samuel 17:47).

Cultural and Historical Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the display of a defeated enemy's head was a common practice, symbolizing total victory and the subjugation of one's foes. This cultural practice is reflected in the biblical narrative, where the severed head of Goliath becomes a symbol of Israel's triumph over the Philistines.

Legacy:
The account of David and Goliath, including the detail of Goliath's head, has left a lasting legacy in both religious and secular contexts. It is often cited as an example of overcoming insurmountable odds through faith and courage. The narrative continues to inspire believers to trust in God's power and providence in the face of challenges.