These were the ones chosen from the community, leaders of their ancestral tribes. They were the heads of the thousands of Israel.

The sons of Merari by their families were Mahli and Mushi. These are the families of the Levites by their clans.

From Gershon came the family of the Libnites and the family of the Shimeites; these were the families of the Gershonites.

From Merari came the family of the Mahlites and the family of the Mushites; these were the families of Merari.

“Also take a census of the Gershonites, by their clans and by their families.

These people, as well as the Anakites, are also considered Rephaites; the Moabites call them Emites.

When the men of Joseph attacked Bethel, the Lord was with them.

After all, they are your people and your special possession whom you brought out of Egypt, from the middle of the iron-smelting furnace.

While they were sitting at the table, the Lord spoke through the old prophet

He said to him, “This is what Ben Hadad says, ‘Your silver and your gold are mine, as well as the best of your wives and sons.’”

So she left him and closed the door behind her and her sons. As they were bringing the containers to her, she was pouring the olive oil.

The rest of the events of Amaziah’s reign are recorded in the scroll called the Annals of the Kings of Judah.

Do not audit the foremen who disburse the silver, for they are honest.”

These were the descendants of Ehud who were leaders of the families living in Geba who were forced to move to Manahath:

Mikloth was the father of Shimeam. They also lived near their relatives in Jerusalem.

Look how they are repaying us! They come to drive us out of our allotted land which you assigned to us!

My heart beats quickly; my strength leaves me; I can hardly see.

Egypt is totally incapable of helping. For this reason I call her ‘Proud one who is silenced.’”

Before they even call out, I will respond; while they are still speaking, I will hear.

But I am not really the one being troubled!” says the Lord. “Rather they are bringing trouble on themselves to their own shame!