What Are the Books of Samuel?

The books of 1 and 2 Samuel narrate the beginnings of the Israelite monarchy. The main events of 1 Samuel are the establishment of the monarchy under Saul and the rise to prominence of David. David’s reign and events in his family take up most of 2 Samuel.

According to 1 Samuel, the Israelite monarchy initially faced some opposition, and its first ruler, Saul, was a failed king. Yet it was clear that a stronger federation of the tribes, with a centralized administration, was needed if Israel were to grow strong and defend itself against other nations. David, the second and most famous king, is both heroic and flawed. David’s reign establishes the dynastic principle, meaning that all future kings (at least of Judah) would be from the Davidic line.