Useful Bible Studies > 1 Kings Commentary > chapter 2

David’s death

1 Kings 2:10-12

David, who had so often been in danger of death from his enemies, died peacefully at home. He was about 70 years old. People at that time considered that to be a long life (1 Chronicles 29:28). It was especially so for David, who had so many dangers and difficulties during his life. God had rescued him from all his enemies and from all those troubles. He ruled Judah, the southern part of Israel, for 7 years, from the city called Hebron. Then his rule over the whole of Israel began, and Jerusalem became the capital city. He ruled there for 33 years, so in total he was king for 40 years.

David’s grave is in Jerusalem. It is in the oldest part of the city, called the City of David (2 Samuel 5:9). Long afterwards, people were aware of the place of his grave (Acts 2:29).

David had prepared carefully for his death. He had chosen his son Solomon to rule after him. Solomon began his rule a few months before David’s death (1 Kings chapter 1). It pleased David greatly that his son Solomon had become king (1:48).

We remember David as the king whom God chose to rule Israel (1 Samuel 16:1-13). By his many wars, David brought peace to Israel and he made it into a successful nation. He chose Jerusalem to be its capital, and he carefully organised his government. Although David was guilty of some wrong and evil acts, he turned from those evil deeds. He was a truly holy king, and a man who loved God with all his heart.

Next part: Adonijah tries again to become king (1 Kings 2:13)

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