The Bible For Normal People Episode 220: Joel Baden - The Historical David
Oct 3, 2022
Professor Joel Baden provides insights into the biblical character David, discussing the manipulation of historical narratives, the impact of the David and Goliath story on his kingship, contradictory portrayals of David in biblical texts, and speculations on power dynamics within the narrative.
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David Story as Apology Genre
- The David story in the Bible is an apology, a genre aimed at defending and explaining David's controversial rise to power.
- It uses spin to convince readers that David's ascent was not due to ambition or wrongdoing, despite appearances.
David's Rise Surrounded by Death
- David's rise to power involved many suspicious deaths politically beneficial to him.
- The text explicitly denies David's involvement in these, portraying him as innocent despite the lethal circumstances.
Joab Enables David's Denial
- Joab, David's general, is often responsible for eliminating political enemies.
- David offers actual deniability by condemning Joab's actions, creating distance from the killings.