Was King David A Samaritan?
Was King David A Samaritan?
If you’ve been watching Amazon’s new show House of David, you might have some of the same questions I do. The series makes several references to King David’s childhood, including the claim that he was a bastard. Like many productions, it takes creative liberties with Biblical history—but it’s crucial that we turn to Scripture to understand the truth of God’s Word.
While conducting research, my brain has been flooded with questions that need answers!
Given Jesus is the rightful heir of David, why wasn’t His family ruling? What happened to the royal line of David between David and Jesus? If David was bastard, and Jesus was implied to be, why was Jesus called a Samaritan?
It’s important to understand that David being born a bastard highlights something deeper—he was born to an imperfect father, one who could never measure up. Jesse, David’s father, showed favoritism towards his sons, choosing based on outward appearance and circumstance rather than the heart.
In contrast, Jesus was begotten of the Perfect Father—The Ultimate Redeemer—who chooses based on the heart.
Through Jesus, the line of David was restored, redeemed, and fulfilled in a way no earthly man could ever accomplish! David is the foreshadowing of the Messiah—the imperfect king verses the Perfect King of Kings!
So, let’s walk through this amazing story, while keeping our eye on Jesus: step by step!
Opening prayer:
Aside from the Bible, outside of biblical texts, there are several sources and traditions that provide insight into King David, although most of what we know comes from the Bible itself. Here are a few notable references and traditions that shed light on David:
1. Historical and Archaeological Evidence
The Tel Dan Stele: This ancient inscription, discovered in northern Israel in the 1990s, refers to the "House of David." It is one of the most significant archaeological finds, as it provides evidence of the existence of David and his dynasty. The stele, dating from the 9th century BCE, is a fragmentary Aramean victory inscription that mentions King David's name, confirming his historical role and the existence of his dynasty.
The Tel Dan Stele
discovered in northern Israel in the 1990s, refers to the "House of David."
The Mesha Stele: Also known as the Moabite Stone, is a significant artifact in the study of biblical archaeology, particularly for understanding the political and religious context of the ancient Near East during the time of the Bible.
The Mesha Stele is an inscribed stone that dates to approximately 840 BC, and it was created by King Mesha of Moab. The inscription chronicles his military victories over the Kingdom of Israel and provides valuable historical information that aligns with and expands upon the biblical narrative.
THE MESHA STELA
Or Moabite Stone:
Louvre Museum, Dept. of Oriental
Antiquities, Sully, ground floor, RM D.
Here are some key points about the Mesha Stele:
Mesha’s Victory: The Mesha Stele records King Mesha’s successful revolt against the King of Israel, Ahab’s son Jehoram. This corresponds with the biblical account in 2 Kings 3, where Moab revolted after Israel’s oppression. Mesha boasts of his military conquests and the restoration of Moabite territory, emphasizing his divine favor in the process.
Biblical Connections: The stele confirms the historical presence of the Moabites and their interactions with Israel. The Bible tells of Moab's relationship with Israel, including the Moabite king's involvement in the story of Elisha and the defeat of Jehoram. The inscription also mentions the "House of David," a phrase that connects the Moabite stone to the biblical narrative, as it shows the direct relationship between the Moabite kings and the kingdom of Judah, which is critical for understanding the broader political relationships of the time.
Language and Script: The Mesha Stele is written in Moabite, a Semitic language closely related to Hebrew. It is one of the most important examples of early Semitic script and provides scholars with insights into the language and writing style of the Moabites during the 9th century BC. Some parts of the inscription are highly significant for biblical studies, especially in terms of understanding the regional dialects and the historicity of biblical events.
Significance for Biblical Archaeology: As the Mesha Stele is one of the few extrabiblical sources to mention "the House of David," it holds significant weight for scholars seeking to confirm the existence of King David and his dynasty. It also offers a non-Israelite perspective on the conflicts between Israel and Moab, giving a more rounded historical view of the period.
The Mesha Stele is just one example of how archaeology, particularly through artifacts like this one, helps us better understand the historical backdrop of the Bible and supports its historical accuracy. The ongoing discoveries in Jerusalem, along with the findings of other stelae and inscriptions, continue to affirm the historical reality of the biblical narrative.
2. Jewish Tradition and Writings
The Talmud and Midrash: Jewish tradition, particularly the Talmud and Midrash, offers additional stories about David. For example, David is often depicted as a humble shepherd, chosen by God because of his heart for the Lord, contrasting with Saul’s outward appearance. The Midrash also tells of David’s musical abilities, which became part of the tradition regarding his authorship of many of the Psalms.
The Targums: These are Aramaic translations and paraphrases of the Hebrew Scriptures. Some of these texts reflect on David's character and reign, offering additional perspectives, though they do not always provide historical details outside of what is found in the Bible.
3. The Dead Sea Scrolls
The Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in the 1940s and 50s, include many biblical texts that speak of David, confirming his role as an important historical and religious figure. The scrolls often reflect messianic hopes tied to the Davidic line, showing how later Jewish traditions viewed the significance of David's line in relation to the coming Messiah.
DEAD SEA SCROLLS
The entrance of Qumran Cave 11
Photo: Alexander Schick
4. Greek and Roman References
Josephus: The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, writing in the 1st century CE, provides some historical context about David, including his military successes and his role in establishing Jerusalem as the capital. His writings, while not strictly outside text in the biblical sense, add historical context to the biblical narrative of David’s reign.
Philo of Alexandria: A Hellenistic Jewish philosopher, Philo refers to David in his writings, especially focusing on his virtue and the theological significance of his life as a model of divine providence and leadership.
5. Other Ancient Texts and Legends
The Book of Jasher: This ancient text, referenced in the Bible (Joshua 10:13, 2 Samuel 1:18), is a non-canonical work that recounts the history of Israel and mentions David, though it is mostly lost and survives only in fragments. Some later versions of this book, written centuries after David’s time, elaborate on his life and deeds.
Other Ancient Near Eastern Texts: Some ancient Near Eastern texts, such as Assyrian records, may indirectly reference David or the kingdom of Israel. However, they do not always provide direct information about him, focusing more on the geopolitical context of the time.
Summary One:
While much of what we know about David comes from the biblical account, these outside sources—archaeological, Jewish, and later historical writings—help corroborate and add context to the biblical portrayal of David. They paint a picture of a historically significant figure whose life, reign, and lineage left a lasting impact on both Israelite history and later messianic expectations.
So Why Does It Matter?
The House of David was central to God’s covenant promises, particularly the promise of a future Messiah (Jeremiah 23:5). Jesus, as a descendant of David, was the fulfillment of this promise. The archaeological evidence helps us understand how the Israelites saw the Davidic line as the conduit for God’s work, which Jesus fulfilled through His life, death, and resurrection.
“Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: ‘The Lord is our righteousness.”
The Bible never outright calls David a bastard or a Samaritan, but there are enough hints of family tension and questionable ancestry to fuel speculation. Given how often God chooses unexpected people, it wouldn’t be surprising if David’s birth had an element of scandal.
In John 8:48, when the Pharisees insult Jesus by calling Him a Samaritan, it seems like more than just a random slur. Given that Jesus is called the Son of David, this could be an indirect attack on His lineage—including David’s own questionable background.
Why Did The Pharisees Call Jesus a Samaritan?
“The Jews answered him, “Are we not right in saying that you are a Samaritan and have a demon?” — John 8:48
A Challenge to His Lineage
Jesus was often questioned about where He came from.
If there were rumors about David’s ancestry, it could have been a long-standing insult passed down through generations.
Rahab and Ruth in David’s Ancestry
David’s great-grandmother was Ruth, a Moabite (Ruth 4:17-22), and Rahab, who was a Canaanite from Jericho, is also in his lineage (Matthew 1:5). While neither was Samaritan, both were non-Israelites who joined God’s people—which could have been a source of insults later.
A Way to Discredit Him
The Samaritans were seen as religious and ethnic “half-breeds” by many Jews.
Calling Jesus a Samaritan would be like saying, "You're not a real Jew. You don't belong to the true people of God."
They also accused Him of having a demon, showing they thought His teachings were dangerous.
They called Jesus a bastard, insulted His mother, and even His own family doubted Him.
“And when his family heard it, they went out to seize him, for they were saying, ‘He is out of his mind.’” —Mark 3:21, ESV
This verse shows that even Jesus’ own family struggled to understand His mission at that time. Later, in Mark 3:31-35, His mother and brothers come looking for Him, and He responds by emphasizing that those who do the will of God are His true family… Jesus’ own family thought He was crazy and unworthy.
David’s Possible Scandalous Birth
If there was suspicion that David’s mother wasn’t fully Israelite, this could explain the insult.
David’s family didn’t seem to respect him (1 Samuel 16-17), which could hint at a controversial birth.
Eliab’s Harsh Words in 1 Samuel 17:28
David’s older brother, Eliab, speaks to him with contempt before David fights Goliath:
“And Eliab his oldest brother heard when he spoke to the men. And Eliab’s displeasure burned against David, and he said, “Why did you come down here? And with whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your pride and the evil of your heart, for you have come down to see the battle.”
(1 Samuel) 17:28, TS2009
This could imply that David was looked down upon by his brothers, perhaps because of his birth circumstances.
The Irony
The Pharisees were trying to discredit Jesus.
But in reality, Jesus is the true King of Israel, the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7:12-16).
They meant it as an insult, but Jesus truly came to save Samaritans, too—as seen in His conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4).
This moment in John 8:48 isn’t just an insult—it might be a centuries-old echo of the way David himself was treated. Jesus, as the greater Son of David; therefore, David; was a foreshadowing of Jesus, who faced the same kind of rejection.
Summary Two:
When we compare Jesus to David, striking parallels emerge—yet the differences are just as significant. David was born under circumstances that led to speculation and rejection, with some traditions suggesting his mother was not fully accepted, possibly a Samaritan. In contrast, Mary, a young woman of pure heart and deep faith, was falsely slandered as an unwed mother. Yet, what the world saw as disgrace, God used for His glory.
Just as David rose from obscurity to kingship, despite rejection from his own family, Jesus, the Son of David, was despised and rejected—yet He is the true and eternal King. The very whispers of shame surrounding Mary’s pregnancy became part of the divine plan, proving that God’s ways overturn human judgment. Through Jesus, God not only redeemed David’s line but fulfilled His promise in a way far beyond earthly expectations, proving that what man sees as dishonor, God uses for redemption and His glory!
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
God’s Promise: The Davidic Covenant
In 2 Samuel 7:12-16, God makes a covenant with David, promising:
“I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom… And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever.” (2 Samuel 7:12,16, ESV)
This means that David’s descendants were meant to rule forever—but something went wrong.
The Fall of David’s Kingdom
After David, his son Solomon ruled, but he sinned, and after his death, the kingdom split into two:
The Southern Kingdom (Judah) – ruled by David’s descendants
The Northern Kingdom (Israel) – ruled by other dynasties, eventually becoming Samaria
The Southern Kingdom of Judah kept David’s dynasty going for about 400 years, but due to continued rebellion against God, it was destroyed by Babylon in 586 B.C..
The Babylonians conquered Jerusalem.
They destroyed the Temple and ended the reign of David’s descendants as kings.
The last king of Judah, Zedekiah, was captured, and his sons were killed (2 Kings 25:7).
This means that David’s royal line didn’t disappear, but they lost the throne.
The Curse on Jeconiah: The Lost Throne of David
One of the last kings of Judah was Jehoiachin (Jeconiah), a descendant of David. Because of Judah’s wickedness, God cursed Jeconiah’s line, declaring:
“Write this man down as childless… for none of his offspring shall succeed in sitting on the throne of David and ruling again in Judah.” (Jeremiah 22:30, ESV)
This created a massive problem—God promised that David’s line would reign forever, but now David’s royal bloodline was barred from ruling!
How could the Messiah, the true Son of David, ever come if His ancestors were cursed?
The Line of David in Exile
Even though David’s line lost power, it didn’t disappear. His descendants continued, but they were no longer kings.
One key descendant was Jehoiachin (Jeconiah), who was taken to Babylon.
The prophet Jeremiah cursed Jeconiah’s descendants, saying:
“Write this man down as childless… for none of his offspring shall succeed in sitting on the throne of David and ruling again in Judah.” (Jeremiah 22:30, ESV)
This is a big problem—how can David’s throne continue if Jeconiah’s line is cursed?
The Line of David After Exile
After the Babylonian exile, David’s family continued, but as common people, not kings.
Zerubbabel, a descendant of David, led the rebuilding of the Second Temple, but he wasn’t made king (Haggai 2:23).
By the time of Joseph and Mary, David’s family had become unknown carpenters in Nazareth—far from the throne.
Why Didn’t People Recognize Him as King?
By Jesus’ time, Israel expected the Messiah to be a military king like David, who would defeat Rome. But Jesus came as a spiritual King first:
"My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting."(John 18:36, ESV)
The Jewish leaders rejected Him, not understanding that Jesus was fulfilling the true role of the Messiah—not just ruling a physical kingdom, but bringing God’s eternal kingdom.
The Restoration of David’s Throne
Even though Jesus wasn’t crowned as king on earth, He was crowned in heaven after His resurrection.
“The Lord says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.’” (Psalm 110:1, ESV)
When Jesus returns, He will physically reign as King, fulfilling the prophecy of David’s eternal throne (Revelation 22:16).
Summary: How the Royal Line Was "Lost"
David’s descendants ruled for 400 years.
The Babylonian exile ended their rule in 586 B.C.
The line of David continued, but as common people.
Jesus, though unknown to most, was the rightful heir to David’s throne.
Jesus was rejected as king but will return to rule forever.
So the royal line wasn’t lost—it was hidden until the right time.
“His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!
”
But, how can Jesus be the rightful King, from the line David if Jeconiah’s descendants were barred from ruling?
The answer lies in the two genealogies in Matthew and Luke, showing Jesus' royal and biological descent in different ways.
1. Matthew’s Genealogy (Joseph’s Line – Legal Right to the Throne)
Found in Matthew 1:1-17
Traces Jesus' ancestry through Joseph, His legal father
Goes through Solomon, the royal line
Includes Jeconiah, which means this line is cursed from ruling
Why is this still important? Because legal inheritance passes through the father, even in adoption. Jesus, as Joseph’s legal son, inherits the royal claim—but without the curse affecting Him!
2. Luke’s Genealogy (Mary’s Line – Biological Bloodline to David)
Found in Luke 3:23-38
Traces Jesus' ancestry through Mary, His biological mother
Goes through Nathan, another son of David (not Solomon)
Avoids the curse on Jeconiah, because this line never ruled
Why is this important? It proves Jesus is a physical descendant of David through His mother—without the cursed line!
The Genius of God’s Plan
If Jesus came only from Joseph’s line, He would be under Jeconiah’s curse.
If Jesus came only from Mary’s line, He would have David’s bloodline, but not the legal right to rule.
But through both genealogies, Jesus is the rightful Son of David and not under the curse!
Final Confirmation: The Virgin Birth
Jesus being born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14, Luke 1:34-35) is essential because:
He is not physically from Joseph, so the curse doesn’t apply.
He is legally Joseph’s son, so He has the right to David’s throne.
He is physically Mary’s son, so He has David’s bloodline through Nathan.
He is conceived by the Holy Spirit, making Him the perfect, sinless King.
And best of all, God has a perfect plan all along—never doubt Him!
Summary Three: The Curse is Overcome!
The royal line of David was never truly lost—it was hidden in plain sight, waiting for the perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The two genealogies solve the curse of Jeconiah, proving that Jesus is both legally and biologically the rightful King of Israel.
God’s plan is flawless—every detail in Scripture connects perfectly!
And Here We Find Grace…
GRACE perfectly encapsulates the transition from striving, to resting, in God's presence—which is at the heart of the message. Grace is the unmerited favor of God, and it's through His grace that we are able to move from struggle to peace. I invite you to pause and reflect on God's presence, how you can connect to God’s grace in a meaningful way.
Our GRACE Method™ is meant to encourage you so you can experience YHWH, Immanuel, and the Holy Spirit, in a deeper way, on a regular basis, through thought provoking Bible Study, Prayer, education, and Worship.
G.R.A.C.E. Method for Was King David a Samaritan?
Application: How Should We Live? GRACE Method Reflection
Ground yourself in Scripture: Read Matthew 1 and Luke 3 to study the genealogies.
Reflect on context: Why did God allow David’s line to fall? What does this teach us?
Apply to your life: How does Jesus’ fulfillment of prophecy strengthen your faith?
Commune with God: Thank Him for His sovereign plan that never fails.
Exalt Him: Praise Jesus as the eternal King of Kings!
G.R.A.C.E. Method for Was King David a Samaritan?
G – Ground Yourself in Scripture
The genealogies in Matthew 1 and Luke 3 show how God masterfully preserved the royal line of David, ensuring Jesus was both legally and biologically qualified to be the Messiah. Despite the curse on Jeconiah, God’s promise to David remained unbroken.
Reflection Question: How do the genealogies of Jesus strengthen your understanding of God’s sovereignty?
Reflection Question: What does this teach us about God’s ability to fulfill His promises, even when circumstances seem impossible?
R – Reflect on Context
David’s descendants ruled for centuries, but sin and rebellion led to exile and the apparent loss of the throne. However, God was still working behind the scenes, preserving the line through humble, hidden ways until the time was right for Jesus to be born.
Questions:
Reflection Question: Why do you think God allowed the visible reign of David’s family to be lost for so long?
Reflection Question: How does this story encourage you when God’s promises in your own life seem delayed?
A – Apply to Your Life
Just as God had a perfect plan for restoring David’s throne, He has a perfect plan for your life—even when things don’t seem to make sense. His timing is always precise, and His promises never fail.
Questions:
Reflection Question: Have you ever experienced a time when God’s plan unfolded in an unexpected way?
Reflection Question: How can you trust God more fully when you don’t yet see His promises come to pass?
C – Commune with God
Take a moment to thank God for His sovereignty, wisdom, and faithfulness. Just as He carefully wove together history to bring Jesus at the perfect time, He is also guiding your life according to His perfect plan.
Questions:
Reflection Question: What’s one area of your life where you need to surrender control and trust in God’s timing?
Reflection Question: How can you deepen your relationship with God as you wait for His promises?
E – Exalt Him
Jesus is the true and eternal King! He overcame every obstacle, fulfilled every prophecy, and will return to reign forever. Worship Him for His greatness, His wisdom, and His unfailing love.
Questions:
Reflection Question: How does knowing Jesus as the eternal King change the way you worship Him?
Reflection Question: What’s one way you can intentionally praise God today for His faithfulness?
WORSHIP:
"Behold Our God" – Sovereign Grace Music
A powerful song exalting God’s majesty and authority, reminding us that He alone reigns, just as He chose and upheld David, and ultimately fulfilled His promise in Jesus.
"All Glory Be to Christ" – Kings Kaleidoscope
A song that redirects all attention to Christ as the true King, emphasizing that all human striving is nothing without Him. It reflects how David and Jesus both pointed to God’s glory, not their own.
"Holy, Holy, Holy" – Traditional Hymn
A timeless hymn of worship that declares God’s holiness, sovereignty, and eternal reign—lifting our eyes beyond earthly figures like David and pointing us to the perfection of God Himself.
Sources:
Armstrong Institute of Biblical Archaeology, Exploring the City of David, Armstrong Institute of Biblical Archaeology, 2022.
The Jerusalem Museum, Ancient Israel: Artifacts and Insights from the Biblical Era, Jerusalem Museum, 2023.
Expedition Bible, The House of David: Unveiling Ancient Truths, Expedition Bible, 2021.
Mesha Stele (Moabite Stone), The Inscription of King Mesha of Moab, The Israel Antiquities Authority, 2021.
Biblical Archaeology Graves, "Bonus #36: Mesha Stele," Biblical Archaeology Graves Blog, 2014.
The Dead Sea Scrolls: Introduction, The Israel Museum, Dead Sea Scrolls Website, 2021.
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