1010 BC
King David (c. 1010-970 BC) is the greatest king in Israel's history, the man after God's own heart. A shepherd boy from Bethlehem, David was anointed by the prophet Samuel while still tending his father's sheep. He rose to prominence through his courage in defeating Goliath, his musical skill in soothing King Saul with his harp, and his military genius in expanding Israel's borders. After Saul's death, David was first anointed king over Judah (in Hebron) and then over all Israel, making Jerusalem his capital.
David's reign transformed Israel from a loose confederation of tribes into a unified kingdom with a stable government, a professional army, and a flourishing culture. He brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, established the Temple worship, and composed many of the Psalms. God made an eternal covenant with David, promising that his dynasty would endure foreverβa promise fulfilled ultimately in Jesus Christ, the Son of David.
David was not without sinβhis adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah brought devastating consequences to his family. Yet his repentance (Psalm 51) stands as the model of contrition. The Catholic Church sees David as a type of Christ: both were shepherds, both were anointed kings, both suffered, and both established an eternal kingdom. Key Scripture: 2 Samuel 5-7; 1 Chronicles 11-29; Psalm 89; Luke 1:32-33; Revelation 22:16; CCC 59-60