David (Dāwud) in Islam
David (Arabic: دَاوُد, Dāwud or Dāwūd; Turkish: Davut) is recognized in Islam as a revered Prophet and King of Israel.
Etymology
The name Dāwud finds its roots in Ancient Hebrew, evolving through Greek and Arabic languages. In Hebrew, it reads as Dāwīd, coming to Arabic and Turkish as Dāwud (داود or دَاوُد).
Role in Islam
Though prominently a king and prophet, Dāwud does not possess a specialized title as a law-giver. His prophethood is acknowledged, but unlike Moses (Musa) and Muhammad, Dāwud is not considered to have inaugurated a divine dispensation.
Revelation of the Zabūr (Book of Psalms)
In Islamic tradition, God revealed the Zabūr, or Book of Psalms, to Dāwud. This scripture is one of the four holy books mentioned in the Qur’an, alongside the Torah (Tawrat), the Gospel (Injīl), and the Qur’an.
Depiction in the Qur’an
The Kingship and Wisdom of Dāwud
Dāwud has unique attributes and insights granted to him by God, as mentioned in the Qur’an:
<p>“And God gave him (David) the kingship over the children of Israel, and wisdom…and taught him what He pleased, including the art of making coats of mail, and the language of birds…” (Qur’an, Sūrah Al-Baqarah 2:251)</p>
The Story of the Litigants
This narrative portrays Dāwud as a judge facing a moral test:
<p>“Hath the story of the two opposing parties come unto thee, when they ascended over the walls of the oratory of David…Verily, many associates wrong one another, except those who believe and do righteous deeds…” (Qur’an, Sūrah Ṣād 38:21-24)</p>
The Praise of God with Nature
The Qur’an explicitly mentions the mountains and birds glorifying God alongside Dāwud:
<p>“We compelled the mountains to glorify Us, with David, and the birds also…” (Qur’an, Sūrah Al-Anbiyā’ 21:79-80)</p>
Islamic Tradition
Dāwud is portrayed as an industrious figure who worked with his hands, fashioning coats of mail. Islamic tradition often refers to exceptional quality armor as Dawūdian (Dāwudī).
Further Studies
For a deeper understanding of Prophet Dāwud in Islam, the following books are recommended:
- “Stories of the Prophets” by Ibn Kathir
- “The History of al-Tabari: Prophets and Patriarchs” by Al-Tabari
- “Qur’an and Bible: Text and Commentary” by Gabriel Said Reynolds
- “The Biography of Prophet David: From the Qur’an, Bible and Historical Sources” by Ibn Kathir
Takeaways
- Dāwud or David is both a king and a prophet in Islamic belief.
- He is associated with the revealed scripture Zabūr (Psalms).
- His narratives in the Qur’an emphasize his wisdom, craftsmanship, and devotion to justice and God.
- Islamic tradition holds him in high esteem for his industriousness and piety.
Conclusion
Prophet Dāwud holds a significant but unique position within Islamic theology and history. While his story in the Qur’an may be succinct, it highlights essential virtues like justice, piety, and hard work, propelling his legacy further into the ethos of Muslim heritage.
By understanding Prophet Dāwud’s story, one gains a broader perspective on the interconnectedness of biblical and Qur’anic narratives and the shared values underscored across different religious traditions.
