David • David son of Jesse • King of Israel
King David
Biblical EraKing David, the Lord’s anointed, founder of the Davidic dynasty and author of most of the Book of Psalms. He was a shepherd, warrior, musician, and poet. He united the tribes of Israel and conquered Jerusalem.
Biography
King David, the Lord’s anointed, founder of the Davidic dynasty and author of most of the Book of Psalms. He was a shepherd, warrior, musician, and poet. He united the tribes of Israel and conquered Jerusalem.
Life Story
Childhood
The youngest of Jesse’s sons, he tended sheep in Bethlehem. He was secretly anointed king by the prophet Samuel.
Teachers
He studied Torah under the prophet Samuel and his father Jesse.
Students
His sons and the sages of his generation.
Family
Son of Jesse, he married several wives, among them Bathsheba. His son Solomon inherited his kingdom.
Key Events
His victory over Goliath, his reign in Hebron, the conquest of Jerusalem, the bringing of the Ark, the sin involving Bathsheba, and Absalom’s rebellion.
Miracles
His victory over Goliath in the name of the Lord, and many deliverances in war.
Influence
He established Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and laid the groundwork for the building of the Temple. The Messiah will descend from his lineage.
Death
He passed away in ripe old age, full of days, and bequeathed his kingdom to his son Solomon.
Writings
Book of Psalms (most of it)
Prayer and praise
A book of songs of prayer and praise composed by David together with ten elders.
His Way and Views
Torah Study
He studied Torah at all times and established watches for Torah study.
Halacha
He instituted ordinances concerning the service of the Temple.
Faith
He possessed complete faith in the Lord, to whom he sang throughout his life.
Ethics
Humble and penitent, he acknowledged his sins.
Customs
He established the order of prayer through the Book of Psalms.
Character
Compassionate and humble, with a heart open to repentance.
Public Role
A leader who ruled over all Israel with justice and integrity.
Famous Quotes
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
"Who is like You among the mighty, O Lord?"
Famous Stories
David was a shepherd. When Samuel came to anoint a king, Jesse did not think to bring young David in from the flock. But the Lord said: “Arise, anoint him, for this is the one.”
When David heard the curse of Shimei son of Gera, he did not kill him; rather, he said: “I pray to the Lord, and He will repay me with good in place of his curse.”
Students
Teachers
Grave Site
Timeline
Birth in Bethlehem
Victory over Goliath
Kingship over all Israel
Passing