David

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Hebrew Dāwīd (דָּוִד), “beloved,” a personal name used for Israel’s second king.
• Period/Era: United Monarchy
• Main References: 1 Samuel 16–31; 2 Samuel 1–24; 1 Kings 1–2; 1 Chronicles 11–29; Psalms (selected superscriptions)
• Key Connections: Son of Jesse of Bethlehem (tribe of Judah); successor of Saul; father of Solomon; covenant recipient of the dynastic promise (2 Samuel 7).

Who was David?

David was an Israelite from Bethlehem who was anointed by Samuel during Saul’s reign.
He rose from shepherd and court musician to military leader and became king.
His rule established Jerusalem as the political center of Israel.
He is remembered as a key figure in Israel’s royal dynasty and covenant history.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Defeated Goliath and entered Saul’s service, becoming prominent in Israel’s conflicts with the Philistines (1 Samuel 17–18).
• Event 2: United the tribes under his kingship and captured Jerusalem, making it his capital (2 Samuel 5).
• Event 3: Received the LORD’s promise of an enduring dynasty through his house (2 Samuel 7).

Life Lesson & Legacy

David’s life highlights how Israel’s kingship and national worship were shaped through covenant promises and accountable leadership.

Key Verse

"Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever." — 2 Samuel 7:16, NIV