David in Islam

The Quranic Arabic form of David is Dāwud or Dāwūd, differing from Koine and (which follow ). These forms appear in the Quran sixteen times. == Narrative in the Quran ==

David's narrative in the Quran, in many respects, parallels that given in the Bible. He is named a prophet (nabī) and also a messenger (rasūl), David is included in lists of those who received revelation (waḥy; Q4:163) or guidance (hudā; ) from God. In both lists his name appears next to that of his son Solomon. Elsewhere, the Quran explains that God gave to both of them the gifts of "sound judgment" (ḥukm; ) and "knowledge" (ʿilm; ; ). Yet the Quran also ascribes to David merits that distinguish him from Solomon: David killed Goliath () and received a divine revelation named "the Psalms" ( uses an indefinite form, while uses the definite form al-Zabūr), The Quran also connects David and Jesus, by insisting that both cursed Jews against their prophecy who did not believe (). Moreover, according to the Quran, David was given the ability to distinguish between truth and falsehood when dispensing justice (faṣl al-khiṭāb, ). Furthermore, there is the allusion to a test David was put through, wherein he prayed and repented and God forgave him (). Surat Sad (the 38th chapter of the Quran) is also called "the sūra of David" Exegetes explain that since David prostrated when asking God to forgive him, Muhammad was ordered to imitate him and to perform a prostration when reading this chapter. == Religious significance ==

David is one of the few Islamic Prophets who received Kingship as well. While other prophets preached during the reign of kings, David, in his time, was the king. Thus, he received an extremely large task, of making sure that the people of Israel were not only held in check spiritually but that the country itself remained strong as well. His place as both leader and prophet is revered by all Muslims as one of extremely high rank. The figure of David, together with that of his prophetic son, Solomon, are iconic of people who ruled justly over their land. God frequently mentions David's high rank as a prophet and messenger in the Quran. He is often mentioned alongside other prophets to emphasize how great he was. For example, God says: When the Caliph 'Umar visited Jerusalem, the Patriarch Sophronius accompanied him on the Temple Mount, while he searched for the Mihrab Dawud (''David's prayer-niche) to perform a prayer. Later commentators identified this site with the Tower of David. In a hadith'', the prayer and fasting of David is mentioned to be dear to God. The Book of David The Zabur is the holy book attributed to David by God, just as Musa (Moses) received the Tawrat (Torah), Isa (Jesus) received the Injil (Gospel) and Muhammad received the Quran. In the Bible, the Zabur is known as the Psalms. == Bibliography ==