Ruch Biblijny i Liturgiczny • Volume 70 • Number 4 • 2017 • 309–340 DOI: https://doi.org/10.21906/rbl.3606 The Penitent David in the Bible and in Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Cantata “Davide Penitente” Rev. Stanisław Wronka Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow
[email protected] David, the second king of Israel (who reigned approximately between 1010 and 970 BC), plays a prominent role in the Bible. His name appears about 1,050 times in the Old Testament and fifty-six times in the New Testament, more times than Moses’ name, for example. This attests to his exceptional role in the history of the Chosen People and in salvation history. In Biblical culture, the name “David” -dvd) or “high דוד describes a man. It could mean “beloved” (from the Hebrew root est commander” (from the Babylonian davi(da)num). In Sacred Scripture, David is presented as an exceptionally talented man. He is physically attractive and has an honest heart; he is a valiant pastor and a brave warrior; a good leader, strategist, builder, administrator, politician, and diplomat; a musician and poet who suffers greatly because of family situations; a man who is faithful to his friends, loyal to his allies, committed to God, and listens to His prophets. This is a very positive image that, over time, has become idealized (see: 1 Corinthians, Sirach). Today, more and more people believe that this image had little in com- mon with the real David. His position and achievements are questioned, as are his ethical virtues.1 It seems that there is no basis for such a far-reaching critique; one cannot interpret the Bible completely contrary to its statements.