David and Bathsheba 1951

David [Gregory Peck] returns to Jerusalem after a hard-won victory over the Philistines. En route, a cart bearing the Ark of the Covenant nearly topples; a captain in David’s army, Uzzah, reaches to steady it and dies at the moment of contact. While the prophet Nathan declares it the will of God, David remains skeptical, attributing the tragedy to natural causes. David is drawn to Bathsheba [Susan Hayward], wife of his captain Uriah [Kieron Moore].

The attraction is mutual, though both know an affair would violate the law of Moses. Bathsheba becomes pregnant, and David sends for Uriah. Michal [Jayne Meadows], David’s wife, who knows about the affair, tells David that Uriah did not return home; he slept at the castle, as a sign of loyalty to his king. David then orders Uriah to the front lines while withdrawing his own troops, leaving Uriah to die. Bathsheba learns of her husband’s death, and the two plan their marriage.

Nathan [Raymond Massey] informs David that the Israelites are dissatisfied with his leadership; they want David’s sons to rule. Nathan says David has forgotten he is the Lord’s servant. Shortly after David marries Bathsheba, a drought hits Israel and the couple’s newborn child dies. Nathan returns to tell David that God is displeased with him. However, he will not die as the law demands, but will be punished through family misfortune. David takes full responsibility, insisting Bathsheba is blameless, but the people want her killed. David plans to save Bathsheba, but she tells David they are both equally at fault.

David is reminded of the Lord and, while playing his harp, ponders Psalm 23. He tells Bathsheba she will not die; he accepts God’s justice for himself. A repentant David, seeking relief from the drought as well as forgiveness, enters the Holy of Holies and begs God not to punish Israel for his sins. He touches the Ark in a moment that feels like a desperate act, and there is a clap of thunder, followed by flashbacks to David’s youth—his anointing by Samuel, his battle with Goliath, and other pivotal moments.

King David removes his hands from the Ark, and outside, rain finally falls on the dry land.