King David, arguably Israel’s greatest king, rose to power from humble circumstances and amid many difficulties. In his 40-year reign he captured Jerusalem, established it as his capital, unified the nation, and built an empire that stretched from Egypt to Mesopotamia. He was a shepherd, a musician, a poet, a diplomat, a politician, and a warrior. In addition to his many positive accomplishments, he is a great sinner (called out by the fearless prophet Nathan) as well as the very symbol of repentance in Jewish tradition. In this course we will read passages from the Book of Samuel, which tells David‘s remarkable story, and the Book of Psalms, which includes some of David’s sublime poetry.