How long did David wait to become king? This is a question that has intrigued historians and scholars for centuries. The answer to this question lies in the complex narrative of the Bible, specifically in the books of Samuel and Kings. David’s journey to the throne was not a straightforward path, and his patience and perseverance played a crucial role in his rise to power.
David’s ascent to the throne began with his anointing by the prophet Samuel. After King Saul’s failure to fulfill God’s will, Samuel sought a new king, and he anointed David as the future ruler of Israel. However, the wait for David to take the throne was not immediate. For a period of approximately seven years, David lived in the shadow of King Saul, serving as a musician and a military leader.
During this time, David faced numerous challenges and dangers. He had to evade Saul’s wrath, who sought to kill him multiple times. Despite these hardships, David remained faithful to God and his calling. His waiting period can be divided into two main phases: the years of Saul’s reign and the years of civil war that followed Saul’s death.
In the years of Saul’s reign, David was primarily based in the southern part of the kingdom, while Saul controlled the north. This separation allowed David to build a loyal following and to consolidate his power. The civil war that erupted after Saul’s death was a more intense phase of David’s waiting period. He had to fight against Saul’s sons and other claimants to the throne, all while striving to unite the divided kingdom under his rule.
The civil war lasted for several years, and during this time, David faced numerous setbacks and challenges. However, his faith and leadership qualities ultimately led to his triumph. In 1010 BCE, David defeated the last of Saul’s sons, Ishbosheth, and took control of the entire kingdom. With this victory, David finally became the king of Israel, marking the end of his long wait.
In conclusion, David’s wait to become king lasted approximately 13 years, from his anointing by Samuel to his ultimate victory over Saul’s sons. This period was marked by trials, tribulations, and the development of David’s character and leadership abilities. His patience, faith, and resilience ultimately led to his rise to power and the establishment of the United Monarchy of Israel.
