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House of David is a biblical drama that premiered on February 27, 2025, exclusively on Prime Video. The story was set in 1000 BC. The series follows David's rise from his modest origins as a shepherd to his final kingship.
Yes, King Saul in House of David is based on a real historical figure, the first king of Israel, as described in the Hebrew Bible. Though grounded in scripture, the depiction employs fictionalized elements, so his portrayal in the series is both biblical and an interpretation for dramatic effect. The series emphasizes Saul's fall and David's rise.
Ali Suliman, who brings the nuanced feelings of a king fighting both internal and external demons to life, plays Saul in House of David. Struggling with his impending collapse and the rise of David, the anointed king chosen by God, his character adds to the conflict of the story.
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All about King Saul's character in House of David
King Saul, a significant character in the Hebrew Bible, especially in the Book of Samuel, is the subject of the series, which explores his political and personal struggles.
The Bible says Saul was Israel's first king and was supposed to rule during a time of fighting, mostly with the Philistines. The show shows his leadership and moral decline that led to God's rejection.
According to the Bible 1 Samuel 9:2, Saul is a tall, handsome man whom both Samuel the prophet and the people of Israel selected to be king. His reign, however, is marked by his defiance of God's commands. He disregarded God's instructions in the battle against the Amalekites. Thus, he provoked Samuel to oppose him as king.
Especially his triumph over the Ammonites, Saul's successes are shown together with his ongoing fight to keep Israel under control. Saul's jealousy and insecurity cause his relationship with David, who was first preferred in his court, to suffer.
The show shows the king as a tragic figure whose fall is unavoidable as Saul's mental state declines.
Also Read: "It's worth a watch": Fans are excited with the House of David season 1 plot so far
The Biblical connection: Saul’s rejection and David's rise
In both the Bible and House of David, Saul’s rejection by God follows his disobedience during the war with the Amalekites. Samuel, who crowned Saul, proclaims that God has selected a new leader for Israel.
Saul's envy following David's victory against Goliath causes strife between David and Saul. Saul's insecurity and damaged relationship with God reflect the biblical motifs of human sin and divine favor.
Saul's pride and disobedience to God drive the biblical story. The show tells the story of a guy who was brave but fell from grace because he couldn't embrace God's intentions.
His complex character in the show accurately portrays biblical Saul, whose reign ends in defeat and foreshadows David's rise.
Read More: Is House of David on Prime biblically accurate? Fact-checking all important details of the series
Saul’s mental decline and impact on Israel
King Saul's declining mental health becomes a prominent character feature as House of David develops. His anxiety and paranoia rise, particularly as David's popularity rises among the populace.
A major theme of the story is Saul's decline; his failure to lead well causes Israel more problems.
Saul's psychological toll is evident in his erratic conduct and final conflict with the Philistines on Mount Gilboa. He confronts not only the foe but also his own demons.
Closely related to the biblical narrative, this turning point in the story has Saul looking for advice from a necromancer as he understands his approaching loss.
Read More: What happens to King David’s mother in House of David? Details explored
Production and direction of the series
The Prime Video series is co-created and co-directed by filmmaker Jon Erwin. Jon Erwin’s approach to storytelling emphasizes character development and faith, making the historical figures feel real and relatable. The series was filmed in Greece.
Also Read: After a strong first season, House of David season 2 officially secures renewal
What happened in House of David so far?
In the latest episode of House of David, season 1, episode 7, titled David and Goliath Part 1, the tension between Israel and the Philistines intensifies. The episode lays the groundwork for the famous fight between David and Goliath.
David starts to accept his actual destiny as the future king of Israel, a fate predicted by his mother Nitzevet before her death, as the two armies get ready for battle.
David's father Jesse reveals the prophecy and the knowledge of David's significance helps to define his path. David's future as Israel's king motivates him to go on and assert his position in the battle.
In the meantime, Saul's mental state deteriorates and he loses control of his troops, tortured by anxiety and hallucinations. This opens the door for David to rise as an Israeli hero.
The mental struggles of both characters show how different their paths are and give the story more depth. The Goliath battle is about to start, and fans are looking forward to seeing how it ends.
The final episode of House of David season 1 will be released on April 3, 2025, on Prime Video.
