Who united the Israelites into a single nation?

• A. Moses
• B. Joshua
• C. Saul
• D. David

Answer: (D)

Unification through a centralized kingship is what this question is testing. David is the best answer because, after a period when Israel’s tribes lived more like a loose confederation under judges and then a continuation of conflict, his reign brought the tribes under one crown and built a centralized, enduring monarchy. He solidified control over all Israel, expanded the kingdom’s borders, and established Jerusalem as the political and religious center, with a stable dynasty that kept the united nation together.

Moses set in motion liberation and law, and Joshua led the people in settling the land; neither is credited with creating a lasting, unified kingdom. Saul did become king and attempted to unite the tribes, but his rule was marked by internal strife and was ultimately supplanted by David. All of this points to David as the figure who most clearly united the Israelites into a single nation.