Search
Close this search box.

King David

The Bible Comes to Life

King David is one of the most well-known figures in the history of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. He is revered as a great leader, warrior, and poet who played a pivotal role in the history of Israel. David was the second king of Israel and ruled for 40 years, from around 1010 BCE to 970 BCE.


Private-Touring-the-City-of-David-Four-Rooms-House
In This Photo: The City of David in Jerusalem, The Ancient Biblical Tel of the City Where David’s Palace is Located. Also, Where the Story of David and Bathsheba Took Place.

First, King David was born in Bethlehem, a small town in Judah, around 1040 BCE. He was the youngest of eight sons of Jesse, a farmer, and shepherd. As a young man, David worked as a shepherd himself and was known for his bravery in protecting his flock from predators.

David Defeats Goliath

So David first came to prominence when he killed the giant Philistine warrior Goliath with a single stone from his sling. The Israelites were at war with the Philistines, and Goliath challenged the Israelites to send out a champion to fight him in single combat. David, who was still a young man at the time, volunteered to take on the challenge and defeated Goliath with his slingshot. After his victory over Goliath, David became a military leader in King Saul’s army.


Things-to-Do-in-Israel-With-Kids-in-the-Summer-Ein-Gedi-National-Park
In This Photo: Ein Gedi Oasis, Now A Nature Reserve Where David Flees From Saul

However, Saul became jealous of David’s popularity and tried to have him killed. David was forced to flee into the wilderness and spent many years on the run from Saul and his soldiers. During his time in the wilderness, David became a skilled guerrilla fighter and built up a following of loyal supporters.


Few-Against-Many-Ellah-Valley
In This Photo: The Ellah Valley Where David Faought Against Goliath

Eventually, Saul died in battle on top of Mt. Gilboa, and David was able to claim the throne and become the king of Israel. As king, David was known for his military conquests, including the capture of Jerusalem from the Jebusites. He also expanded the borders of Israel and established a powerful and prosperous kingdom. David was also a poet and musician and is said to have written many of the psalms in the Book of Psalms. However, David was not without his flaws.


Tel-Dan-Stele-2
In This Photo: Tel Dan Stele, Which Mentions the Name ‘House of David’

King David and Bathsheba

But King David is a full-rounded figure. In other words, He also committed adultery with Bathsheba, the wife of one of his soldiers, and then arranged for her husband to be killed in battle. Furthermore, David’s actions were condemned by the prophet Nathan, and he repented for his sin. Despite his shortcomings, David is remembered as one of the greatest kings of Israel. He was seen as a symbol of God’s grace and favor, and his lineage was believed to lead to the coming of the Messiah. The stories of David’s life and reign continue to inspire people today and are an important part of many different communities’ cultural and religious heritage.

arik-about

Hi! My name is Arik, an Israeli native who dedicated his life to sharing my passion for the Holy Land with those interested in knowing more about this incredible piece of land. I’m the Chief Guide at ‘APT Private Tours in Israel’.

Did you know the Hoopoe is Israel's national bird?! For more cool info about Israel, join our ever growing community and get exclusive travel tips, and giveaways!

Simon Peter

RELATED POSTS

Abd al-Malik Ibn Marwān

Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan ibn al-Hakam 644 – 705 was the fifth Umayyad caliph, ruling from April 685 until his death. A member of the ...

David Ben Gurion

David Ben Gurion was in more ways than one the father of the Modern State of Israel. He was a real pragmatist that shaped the ...

King Saul

King Saul was the first king of the United Kingdom of Israel. He was marking the transition from a tribal society to a kingdom.

Frederick Jones Bliss

Frederick J. Bliss conducted several critical archaeological excavations in Palestine, often collaborating with other archaeologists.

Raymond Weill

Raymond Weill is best known for his excavations in Jerusalem, where he uncovered a large part of the City of David, the capital of Judah.

Lazarus of Bethany

Lazarus of Bethany is the subject of a prominent sign of Jesus in which Christ restores him to life four days after his death.

Explorers of Palestine

Explorers of Palestine have played a crucial role in uncovering the region's historical, archaeological, and geographical treasures.

Akiva Aryeh Weiss

Akiva Aryeh Weiss, whose indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication played a pivotal role in the founding of Tel Aviv. Let's Go Touring!

Charles Warren

Charles Warren was one of the very first archaeologists in the Holy Land. He was one of the earliest European archaeologists of the Holy Land

Simon Peter

Who was this figure named Peter? How do we trace him back from these layers of legend to the historical great figure? More in this ...

Need help?