the eleventh to Azarel and his sons and relatives – twelve in all,

the twelfth to Hashabiah and his sons and relatives – twelve in all,

the thirteenth to Shubael and his sons and relatives – twelve in all,

the fourteenth to Mattithiah and his sons and relatives – twelve in all,

Night and day may you watch over this temple, the place where you promised you would live. May you answer your servant’s prayer for this place.

Then I will establish your dynasty, just as I promised your father David, ‘You will not fail to have a successor ruling over Israel.’

Solomon went to Hamath Zobah and seized it.

Let the king also be aware that if this city is built and its walls are completed, no more tax, custom, or toll will be paid, and the royal treasury will suffer loss.

When Esther’s female attendants and her eunuchs came and informed her about Mordecai’s behavior, the queen was overcome with anguish. Although she sent garments for Mordecai to put on so that he could remove his sackcloth, he would not accept them.

He leads priests away stripped and overthrows the potentates.

Does God listen to his cry when distress overtakes him?

With all my strength I will say, “O Lord, who can compare to you? You rescue the oppressed from those who try to overpower them; the oppressed and needy from those who try to rob them.”

For look, the kings assemble; they advance together.

When I am afraid, I trust in you.

They believed his promises; they sang praises to him.

They sacrificed their sons and daughters to demons.

They were hungry and thirsty; they fainted from exhaustion.

Let Israel say, “Yes, his loyal love endures!”

You deserve praise, O Lord! Teach me your statutes!

Look! Israel’s protector does not sleep or slumber!