Full Description
First and Second Samuel tell the story of the beginnings of monarchy in ancient Israel. These two powerful narratives present many great figures of biblical history—Samuel, Saul, and David—and explore the complex interaction of historical developments and human fidelity under God. In the books of Samuel, characters interact to influence and persuade, to express motivation and desire, and to shape the reader's understanding of the issues that faced the Israelites as they responded to God's invitation to covenant. Through the medium of story, the reader shares in the perennial struggle to discover, in the midst of personal and political conflict, God's ways for humanity.
Contents
CONTENTS
Abbreviations 4
THE BOOKS OF FIRST AND SECOND SAMUEL
Introduction 5
Text and Commentary 9
Hannah's Gift (1 Samuel 1-3) 9
The Ark Narratives (1 Samuel 4:1-7:1) 20
The Transition to Monarchy (1 Samuel 7-15) 25
The Rise of David (1 Samuel 16:1-2 Samuel 5:12) 51
The Reign of David (2 Samuel 5:13-8:18) 104
The Family of David (2 Samuel 9-20) 113
Appendices (2 Samuel 21-24) 149
Review Aids and Discussion Topics 161
Index of Citations from the Catechism of the Catholic Church 165
Maps 166
