THE UNITED MONARCHY OF ISRAEL

SAUL
1050 - 1010 BC
Anointed as Israel's first king by the prophet Samuel.
Unified the tribes of Israel under one monarchy.
Victorious over the Ammonites.
Defeated the Philistines and established Israelite dominance in key areas.
Began campaigns against the Amalekites.
His leadership faltered due to disobedience to God, resulting in the loss of divine favor.
1 Samuel 9-31
DAVID
1010 - 970 BC
Defeated Goliath, showcasing his faith and courage.
Unified Israel under strong leadership after Saul's death.
Conquered Jerusalem and made it the political and spiritual capital.
Brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, establishing it as the center of worship.
Expanded Israel's territory, defeating the Philistines, Moabites, Edomites, and Arameans.
Composed many Psalms, influencing Israelite worship.
Drew up the plans for the temple in Jerusalem, collected necessary materials and funds for Solomon to build it.
Despite personal failures, he was known as "a man after God's own heart".
2 Samuel 1-24, Kings 1-2
SOLOMON
970 - 931 BC
Built the First Temple in Jerusalem, centralizing worship.
Known for his extraordinary wisdom, including the famous judgment between two mothers.
Strengthened Israel's economy through trade alliances, particularly with Tyre.
Built extensive infrastructure, including cities, palaces, and fortifications.
Presided over Israel's peak of wealth and cultural influence.
Wrote much of the Proverbs, as well as Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon.
His later years were marred by idolatry influenced by foreign wives.
1 Kings 1-11
KEY DATES
931 BC
Division of the Kingdom
722 BC
Fall of Israel, the Northern Kingdom
586 BC
Fall of Judah, the Southern Kingdom
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