Greaves
מִצְחָה/GREEVZ/
“A facing or front covering”
Summary
Protective armor covering the lower legs, mentioned in the description of Goliath's equipment.
☩Description
Greaves were pieces of defensive armor reaching from the foot to the knee, protecting the shin of the wearer. They were typically made of leather or bronze (brass in older translations). The Hebrew term derives from a word meaning 'facing' or 'front part.'
Key verses:1 Samuel 17:6
☩Goliath's Greaves
The only biblical mention of greaves occurs in the description of Goliath's armor, where he is said to have worn 'greaves of brass upon his legs.' This was part of his impressive panoply that terrified the Israelite army before David's victory. The Assyrian sculptures show similar leg armor that covered the upper foot as well, like modern gaiters.
Key verses:1 Samuel 17:4-7
Related Verses1 mention
1 Samuel· 1 verse
References
- 1.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Greaves," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Greaves," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. II (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.John McClintock and James Strong, "Greaves," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. III (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).