David

The Divided Heart (Jewish Lives)

By: David Wolpe

Narrated by: Peter Lerman

A reexamination of the biblical David, legendary warrior, poet, and king, by one of America’s most respected rabbis.

Of all the figures in the Bible, David arguably stands out as the most perplexing and enigmatic. He was many things: a warrior who subdued Goliath and the Philistines; a king who united a nation; a poet who created beautiful, sensitive verse; a loyal servant of God who proposed the great Temple and founded the Messianic line; a schemer, deceiver, and adulterer who freely indulged his very human appetites.

David Wolpe, whom Newsweek called “the most influential rabbi in America,” takes a fresh look at biblical David in an attempt to find coherence in his seemingly contradictory actions and impulses. The author questions why David holds such an exalted place in history and legend, and then proceeds to unravel his complex character based on information found in the book of Samuel and later literature. What emerges is a fascinating portrait of an exceptional human being who, despite his many flaws, was truly beloved by God.

The book is published by Yale University Press. The audiobook is published by University Press Audiobooks.

©2014 David Wolpe (P)2024 Redwood Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"This is an excellent study of the most fascinating character in the Old Testament." (Wall Street Journal)

"Engaging...a thoughtful appreciation of that story." (Los Angeles Review of Books)

"This book deserves a space in every Jewish library." (Association of Jewish Libraries)

The details that he's providing us is wonderful.

I really have no dislikes, I completely enjoyed it and am going to restart it.