Young David

The early life of Young David contains many antecedents of his future career. It appears that David was the youngest son in a family of ten and was born in Bethlehem in 1085 B.C. He was of short stature, with red or auburn hair. He had bright eyes and generally was remarkable for the grace of his figure and countenance and his immense strength and agility. His swiftness and activity made him like a wild gazelle, his feet like hart's feet, and his arms strong enough to break a bow of steel.

After the anointing of young David by Samuel, David resumed his accustomed duties of tending his father's sheep, and the next we know of him he was summoned to Saul's court to chase away the king's madness with his music. After this he returned to the old shepherd life again. One incident alone of his solitary life has come down to us-- his conflict with the lion and the bear in defence of his father's flock.

It was some years after this that David suddenly appears before his brothers in the camp of the army, and hears of the defiant challenge of the Philistine giant Goliath. With his shepherd's sling and five small pebbles he goes forth and defeats the giant. Through his great faith and bravery, he earns the loyalty and lasting friendship of Saul's son, Jonathan, as well as the king's suspicion and jealousy.

On this page you'll find nine pictures of Young David taken from my collection of antique Bibles and story books. You're welcomed to use these illustrations of Young David in your projects. Click on the drawings of Young David below to see more details about saving a free image of Young David or about purchasing the images of Young David at a higher resolution.