United monarchy•c. 1000 BC
David captures Jerusalem
David captures the Jebusite stronghold and establishes Jerusalem as the political center of his kingdom.
kingshipJerusalemDavidic covenant
Historical context
Jerusalem sits in Judah’s hill country on a defensible ridge near important north–south routes. Making it a capital allowed David to build a center that was not simply identified with one older tribal base.
Biblical significance
Jerusalem becomes the city of David, the future location of the temple, and a central symbol of kingship, worship, judgment, and hope throughout Scripture.