the second Hilkiah, the third Tebaliah, and the fourth Zechariah. All of Hosah’s sons and relatives numbered thirteen.

As for the Izharites: Kenaniah and his sons were given responsibilities outside the temple as officers and judges over Israel.

He was a descendant of Perez; he was in charge of all the army officers for the first month.

He commanded them: “Carry out your duties with respect for the Lord, with honesty, and with pure motives.

The men of Tekoa worked on the section adjacent to them, but their town leaders would not assist with the work of their master.

The king’s servants who attended him said, “Let a search be conducted in the king’s behalf for attractive young women.

My guests and my servant girls consider me a stranger; I am a foreigner in their eyes.

He causes everyone to stop working, so that all people may know his work.

The Lord rescues his servants; all who take shelter in him escape punishment.

Certainly your angry judgment upon men will bring you praise; you reveal your anger in full measure.

Protect me, for I am loyal! O my God, deliver your servant, who trusts in you!

Turn toward me and have mercy on me! Give your servant your strength! Deliver your slave!

Deceitful people will not live in my palace. Liars will not be welcome in my presence.

Yes, Lord! I am indeed your servant; I am your lowest slave. You saved me from death.

Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord! Offer praise, you servants of the Lord,

Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened ox where there is hatred.

you will vomit up the little bit you have eaten, and will have wasted your pleasant words.

Feasts are made for laughter, and wine makes life merry, but money is the answer for everything.

Divide your merchandise among seven or even eight investments, for you do not know what calamity may happen on earth.

By day it will be a shelter to provide shade from the heat, as well as safety and protection from the heavy downpour.