ABSTRACT
The history of the period of united monarchy in the biblical text is one part of the so-called Deuteronomistic History. This chapter examines from the biblical sources the emergence of monarchy in an attempt to recognise some of the difficulties in interpreting the text; thus to understand the compilation of the textual material in the books of Samuel. It also examines carefully the events connected with Saul's reign, and to establish a more objective and balanced picture of Saul. The chapter is concerned with legitimising David's accession to the throne; therefore, David is highly idealised, and the glamorised stories of him overlay Saul's achievements. It discusses the episode of the priests of Nob in a similar way to that which the Gibeonites have been discussed, to see how far Saul could be accused or exonerated. The chapter suggests that the help for David resulted in bringing about the slaughter of entire group of priests, except for Abiathar who managed to escape.
