The Books of Samuel refer to the two biblical books of the Old Testament that chronicle the life of the prophet and judge Samuel, as well as the reigns of Israel's first two kings, Saul and David. Synonyms for this term include "Samuelic literature," "Samuelian texts," and "1 Samuel and 2 Samuel." These books are an essential part of the Hebrew Bible and have been studied throughout history for their religious, historical, and literary significance. Understanding the Books of Samuel provides a deeper insight into the foundational years of ancient Israel and the development of its monarchy.