King David defeated several other kingdoms in the region, including his main enemy, the Philistines. He expanded his kingdom and brought it to a peak of political and military power, making Jerusalem the capital of his kingdom. There he purchased the land for the first Jewish Temple, built by his son, King Solomon.

The Jewish kingdom reached its highest level of wealth and regional influence during the reign of King Solomon, who was known for his great wisdom and was at peace with all his neighbors.

 

© IDF Mapping Unit