Source: https://www.lifeintheholyland.com/46_traditional_life_customs_matson_american_colony/

In the Elah Valley, near Socoh (modern Shuweikeh), the biblical account of David and Goliath unfolded (1 Samuel 17). The Philistines, encamped on the southwest near Gath (likely Tell es-Safi), faced the Israelites to the northeast across the valley. Goliath, a giant from Gath, challenged Israel for 40 days, defying their army. David, a young shepherd, volunteered to fight him, citing his victories over a lion and a bear. Rejecting armor, David used a sling and stone to strike Goliath’s forehead, killing him. The Philistines fled, and Israel pursued them to Gath and Ekron. The site of Gath, a Philistine stronghold, is identified with Tell es-Safi, a hill fortified in ancient times. This event underscores God’s deliverance of Israel, as David trusted in divine strength (1 Samuel 17:45–47). Shepherds today still use slings with precision, reflecting ancient practices.

Sources:

• Picturesque Palestine, vol. 3, pp. 157–61
• BiblePlaces: Elah Valley: https://www.bibleplaces.com/elahvalley/
• BiblePlaces: 1 Samuel 17: https://www.bibleplaces.com/1samuel17/