David, the second king of Israel, reigned in Hebron for seven and a half years before establishing his rule over all Israel from Jerusalem. During his time in Hebron, David fathered several sons, each of whom played a role in the unfolding narrative of Israel's monarchy. The account of these sons is found in 2 Samuel 3:2-5 and 1 Chronicles 3:1-4.

Amnon
Amnon was David's firstborn son, born to Ahinoam of Jezreel. As the eldest, Amnon was the natural heir to the throne. However, his life was marred by sin and tragedy. Amnon's most infamous act was the violation of his half-sister Tamar, which led to his murder by Absalom, Tamar's full brother, as recounted in 2 Samuel 13. This event set off a chain of familial strife and rebellion within David's household.

Kileab (also known as Daniel)
Kileab, also referred to as Daniel in 1 Chronicles 3:1, was David's second son, born to Abigail the widow of Nabal the Carmelite. Unlike his brothers, Kileab is not mentioned in the biblical narrative beyond the genealogical listings, and little is known about his life. His absence from the historical accounts suggests he may have died young or did not play a significant role in the political events of the time.

Absalom
Absalom, the third son, was born to Maacah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur. Absalom is one of the more prominent figures among David's sons, known for his striking appearance and charismatic personality. His account is one of ambition and rebellion. After avenging his sister Tamar by killing Amnon, Absalom fled to Geshur. He later returned to Jerusalem and led a revolt against David, temporarily usurping the throne. His rebellion ended in his death, as recorded in 2 Samuel 18.

Adonijah
Adonijah, the fourth son, was born to Haggith. Following Absalom's death, Adonijah assumed he would be the next king, given his position as the eldest surviving son. His attempt to seize the throne is detailed in 1 Kings 1, where he declared himself king while David was still alive. However, his plans were thwarted by the intervention of Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba, Solomon's mother, leading to Solomon's anointing as king. Adonijah's subsequent request to marry Abishag, David's former concubine, led to his execution by Solomon.

Shephatiah
Shephatiah, the fifth son, was born to Abital. Like Kileab, Shephatiah is not mentioned in the biblical narrative beyond the genealogical records. His life and any potential influence he may have had remain unknown.

Ithream
Ithream, the sixth son, was born to Eglah, whom the text refers to as David's wife. Ithream, like Shephatiah and Kileab, does not appear in the biblical narrative outside of the genealogical listings, and little is known about his life or role in the events of the time.

The sons born to David in Hebron reflect the complexities and challenges of his reign, marked by familial discord and political intrigue. Each son's account contributes to the broader narrative of David's legacy and the tumultuous history of Israel's monarchy.