The two Books of Samuel contain valuable historical material concerning the religious and moral conditions of the period. Samuel is the great prophet-judge who helps to unite the scattered tribes under one king, Saul. The history of the reigns of Saul and David is also recorded.

2 Samuel 8

8:16 And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder;