The answer to the crossword for the term KING BEFORE DAVID is SAUL (4 letters). Saul was the first king of the United Kingdom of Israel and Judah, reigning from 1037 to 1010 BCE. He was anointed by the prophet Samuel and reigned from Gibeah. Saul's reign was marked by military failure and personal tragedy. He was eventually succeeded by David, who went on to become one of the most famous kings in history.