KING DAVID Meaning and
Definition
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King David is a prominent biblical figure who reigned approximately between 1010 and 970 BCE as the second king of Israel and one of its most celebrated monarchs. Known for his various accomplishments and significant impact on the history of the Jewish people, King David is revered as a symbol of leadership and faith.
Born in Bethlehem, King David began his journey as a shepherd before being anointed as king by the prophet Samuel, following the rejection of the first king, Saul. He is notably recognized for his military triumphs, most notably defeating the Philistine giant Goliath, which propelled him to fame and admiration. His reign saw Israel evolve into a formidable nation politically and militarily, expanding its territorial boundaries.
King David's ambitions extended beyond military success, as he is also credited with the unification of the twelve tribes of Israel, establishing Jerusalem as its capital, and initiating plans for the construction of the First Temple. Moreover, David's poetic abilities resulted in the creation of numerous psalms that express human experiences, emotions, and spiritual insights, many of which are recorded in the Book of Psalms.
Despite his great triumphs, King David also faced considerable challenges and moral failings, most notably his affair with Bathsheba and subsequent murder of her husband Uriah. Nevertheless, his legacy as a wise and righteous king remains intact within Jewish tradition.
King David's life and reign continue to serve as a symbol of strength, compassion, and devotion, holding great significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, as he is revered in all three Abrahamic religions.
Etymology of KING DAVID
The word "king" can be traced back to the Old English word "cyning", which is derived from the Germanic word "kuningaz". This word eventually evolved into "king" in Middle English. The term "king" refers to a male ruler or monarch who holds supreme power and authority over a kingdom or territory.
The name "David" has Hebrew origins. It comes from the Hebrew name "Dāwīḏ", which means "beloved" or "friend". In the Bible, King David was a prominent figure and the second king of Israel, ruling from around 1010 to 970 BCE. He is renowned for his victory over Goliath and his establishment of Jerusalem as the capital city. King David is considered an important figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and his story has been influential in various cultural and religious traditions.
