King David had eight wives. His extensive family included at least 18 children.
King David's Wives
King David, a pivotal figure in the history of ancient Israel, had multiple wives throughout his life, as recorded in biblical accounts. These unions were often for political alliances, consolidation of power, or personal reasons, and they produced a large number of children.
The known wives of King David include:
| Wife Name | Notable Children (if specified) | Background/Context |
|---|---|---|
| Michal | None recorded | Daughter of King Saul; David's first wife. |
| Ahinoam | Amnon | From Jezreel. |
| Abigail | Chileab (or Daniel) | Widow of Nabal of Carmel. |
| Maacah | Absalom, Tamar | Daughter of Talmai, King of Geshur. |
| Haggith | Adonijah | |
| Abital | Shephatiah | |
| Eglah | Ithream | |
| Bathsheba | Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon | Formerly the wife of Uriah the Hittite; mother of David's successor. |
David's Reign and Family
David's family life was as complex as his political career. Beyond the eight primary wives, the Bible mentions that David also had concubines, who bore him additional children. Overall, he is noted to have fathered more than 18 children.
His ascent to the throne marked a significant period in Israelite history. According to historical Jewish works, David became the King of Judah around 885 BCE. His reign saw the unification of the tribes of Israel and the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital, laying the foundation for a prosperous kingdom. The accounts of his life and family provide insights into the societal norms, political strategies, and succession challenges of the time. More details about his life and reign can be found on pages dedicated to the History of King David.
