Kingdom of David: The Saga of the Israelites (2003)
Kingdom of David: The Saga of the Israelites is a 2003 historical documentary produced for PBS. Narrated by an all-star voice cast including F. Murray Abraham, René Auberjonois, Keith David, Jeremy Irons, and Derek Jacobi, this captivating series delves into the epic saga of the Israelites, tracing their tumultuous journey from ancient times to the brink of the Christian era.
The documentary unfolds across four compelling episodes:
- By the Rivers of Babylon: In 586 B.C., the Babylonians exiled almost all the remains of the tribe of Judah—the Israelites—to Babylon. Looking back at the stories of Abraham, Moses, and David, they seek to understand what led to their fall from God’s favor.
- The Book and The Sword: Sent back to their homeland by the Persians, the Jews face a new struggle. Years later, they must fight to maintain their religious freedom against the encroaching influence of the Greeks.
- The End of Days: Under Roman rule, religious fanaticism reaches a boiling point, culminating in the great Jewish rebellion. The Temple lies in ruins, and the Jews are expelled from Judea. How will they rebuild their religious heritage?
- The Gifts of the Jews: Crushed by the rebellion’s failure, the Jews grapple with their identity. The Temple’s destruction looms large, yet they persist, leaving a lasting legacy that shapes history.
Through meticulous research, evocative storytelling, and powerful visuals, Kingdom of David: The Saga of the Israelites illuminates the struggles, triumphs, and enduring impact of this remarkable people. Their resilience, faith, and contributions resonate across millennia, leaving an indelible mark on civilization.
