A hero is someone admired for courage, noble character, or extraordinary achievements. In biblical narratives, a hero is not always perfect but is often idealized—that is, seen through a lens that highlights their strengths while sometimes overlooking their flaws. David stands as a hero not because of sinlessness, but because of his faith, repentance, and surrender to God's purpose.
Use this guide to walk through the series with deeper understanding of the characters behind the crown. Their triumphs and failures echo through David’s story, revealing God’s redemptive plan through flawed humanity.
The central figure of the series, David was a shepherd, warrior, psalmist, and king. Anointed by God through the prophet Samuel, David rose from obscurity to become Israel’s greatest king. Known as a man after God’s own heart, his life was marked by deep faith, personal failure, and covenantal promise.
David’s father from Bethlehem, of the tribe of Judah. He had eight sons, with David being the youngest. Jesse presented his sons to Samuel when God sought a new king. David was initially overlooked but chosen by God.
Prophet and last judge of Israel. Samuel anointed both Saul and David as kings. His obedience to God set the foundation for David’s kingship, and his discernment led to David’s divine appointment.
Israel’s first king and David’s predecessor. Saul became increasingly jealous of David’s favor with the people and God, pursuing him for years. Despite Saul’s hatred, David respected him as God’s anointed.
Saul’s son and David’s closest friend. Their bond is one of the most profound examples of covenantal friendship in Scripture. Jonathan defended and protected David at great personal risk.
Daughter of Saul and David’s first wife. She initially loved David and helped him escape Saul’s wrath but later despised David, leading to estrangement.
Commander of Saul’s army and cousin. Initially opposed to David but later sought to unite Israel under his rule. Murdered by Joab, David’s general, despite David’s desire for peace.
David’s nephew and military commander. A fierce warrior, Joab often acted on his own will, including executing Abner and Absalom. David admired but also feared his volatility.
Prophet during David’s reign. Confronted David after his sin with Bathsheba and delivered God’s covenantal promise. Instrumental in Solomon’s rise to the throne.
Wife of Uriah and later David. Their adulterous affair led to great sorrow, but she became the mother of Solomon and played a crucial role in royal succession.
Loyal soldier and Bathsheba’s husband. David arranged his death to cover up sin, a pivotal moment in David’s moral journey.
Son of David and Bathsheba. Known for his wisdom and for building the temple, Solomon continued the Davidic line and fulfilled promises of peace and prosperity.
David’s charismatic son who avenged Tamar and led a rebellion. His ambition led to civil war and his death, breaking David’s heart.
Daughter of David, sister to Absalom. Victim of abuse by her half-brother Amnon. Her story exposed brokenness within David’s house.
David’s firstborn who violated his sister Tamar. Killed by Absalom in revenge. His actions contributed to the disintegration of royal unity.
Saul’s son, briefly king over Israel. Opposed David’s rule before being assassinated. His fall allowed David to unify the kingdom.
David’s advisor who defected to Absalom. Known for his wisdom, his betrayal stung deeply. His plans were thwarted and he died by suicide.
Relative of Saul who cursed David during Absalom’s rebellion. Later spared, but his actions were not forgotten.