Recent books examining the events recounted in 2 Samuel, particularly the life of King David, have tended toward the sensational. This new study of 2 Samuel finds the text lurid enough without overindulging readers' imaginations. Using new advances in form criticism, Antony Campbell shows what can and cannot be learned from this important Old Testament document. This commentary explores the wealth of insight found in 2 Samuel by paying close attention to the literary structure of the book. A comprehensive introduction answers questions concerning 2 Samuel's setting, genre, audience, and development. The commentary proper carefully analyzes 2 Samuel's major sections and each passage within them. In the process, Campbell reveals the diversity of views that existed in Israel's traditions, and he highlights the prominence of theology over history in Israel's thinking.