For decades, skeptics questioned the existence of David, comparing him to legendary figures like King Arthur. But that all changed in the 1990s.
In 1993, archaeologists found a broken stone inscription at Tel Dan in northern Israel. It specifically referred to events involving a ruler from the “House of David.” This was thought to be the first extra-biblical mention of King David, and was written just a few generations after his life.
The Bible clearly describes David’s reign: “And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you. Your throne shall be established forever” (2 Samuel 7:16 NKJV). Jesus was recognized as the promised Messiah, a descendant of David (see Matt. 1:17; Luke 1:32; John 7:42; Acts 13:22-23; Rom. 1:3).
The Tel Dan Stele confirms that David was real, his dynasty was real, and that the biblical account is based on history. It gives us confidence in what the Bible says – not just spiritually, but also historically.
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