David Cycle : II Samuel 1-20, 23:5; I Kings 1-2

1. How does David go about consolidating his rule in 2 Samuel 1-8? Give specific examples. Why is placing the ark in Jerusalem/Zion/the City of David so important?

2. Analyze the Throne Succession Narrative in 2 Samuel 11-20 and I Kings 1-2. How do David’s sins reappear in the sins of his sons? What is Nathan’s role? Bathsheba’s role?  How does Solomon come to the throne?

You might want to identify each of the following characters to keep the story straight:

David

Michal

Abner

Nathan

Bathsheba

Amnon

Tamar

Absalom

Joab

Adonijah

Abiathar

Zadok

Abishag

Solomon