David

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David (d. c.962 bc) King of ancient Israel (c.1010–970 bc), successor of Saul. His career is related in the Old Testament books of Samuel. As king, he united Judah and Israel. David captured Jerusalem, making it his capital. The later part of his reign was marked by the revolts of his sons Absalom and Adonijah. David was succeeded by Solomon, his son by Bathsheba. According to the Jewish Prophets, the Messiah must be a descendant of David.

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