In addition to the two interconnected and self-contained accounts we have of the life and character of King David in the Bible, there is a third, entirely different representation from ancient Jewish times, which can be found in the Talmudic and Midrashic literature. In accordance with the nature of the haggadic part of this entire body of writings, where no organizing hand has grouped and systematically arranged the related material, the information about King David is scattered and fragmented across the vast field of Haggada. Some details are preserved in many variations, with more or less significant deviations. Often, the rabbis have little of substance to say about entire periods in David's life. Sometimes, the views of one are in open contrast to those of another. And yet, when.