The answer is: 40 years

1 Ki 2:11

David's reign is a fascinating tale woven through the pages of the Bible, noble in its beginnings and tumultuous in its trials. He ruled for a total of 40 years, stretching across a dynamic trajectory that took him from pastoral peace in Bethlehem as a shepherd to the height of power in Jerusalem, where he established a united kingdom. His kingship is not just noted for the political and military achievements but also for the deep emotional and spiritual fervor presented in many Psalms, attributed to him.

Like the Mount Everest of ancient Israel, David’s reign has echoes in later biblical accounts, as him being “a man after God’s own heart” has led to their honorific events referring back to him during peaks of Israel’s struggles and victories. His 40-year tenure symbolizes stability in contrast with the chaotic ruling periods of many leaders after him. The number 40 pops up a lot in the Bible; it’s seen with both Moses, who spent 40 days and nights on Mount Sinai, and later, Jesus, who fasted for 40 days in the desert. It imbues a sense of completeness—a biblical cadence to sacred time.

Intriguing too is how David went about appointing leaders and structure during his rule. This preparatory stage was a precursor to introducing the next chapters of Israel’s journey, grappling with both shadows and amidst dreams of empire as his lineage would continue with Solomon—still achieving that “hineni,”—“Here I am” dedication to a guiding vision.