The whole Babylonian army that came with the captain of the royal guard tore down the walls that surrounded Jerusalem.

Nebuzaradan, captain of the royal guard, took them and brought them to the king of Babylon at Riblah.

Tamar, Judah’s daughter-in-law, bore to him Perez and Zerah. Judah had five sons in all.

Jabez was more respected than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, for she said, “I experienced pain when I gave birth to him.”

These who are named above were the leaders of their clans. Their extended families increased greatly in numbers.

They went to the entrance of Gedor, to the east of the valley, looking for pasture for their sheep.

Because God fought for them, they killed many of the enemy. They dispossessed the Hagrites and lived in their land until the exile.

The next day, when the Philistines came to strip loot from the corpses, they discovered Saul and his sons lying dead on Mount Gilboa.

David’s power steadily grew, for the Lord who commands armies was with him.

David was afraid of God that day and said, “How will I ever be able to bring the ark of God up here?”

For the Lord is great and certainly worthy of praise, he is more awesome than all gods.

May the Lord God of Israel be praised, in the future and forevermore. Then all the people said, “We agree! Praise the Lord!”

When he taunted Israel, Jonathan son of Shimea, David’s brother, killed him.

Now Joab did not number Levi and Benjamin, for the king’s edict disgusted him.

in using gold, silver, bronze, and iron. Get up and begin the work! May the Lord be with you!”

Eleazar died without having sons; he had only daughters. The sons of Kish, their cousins, married them.

According to David’s final instructions, the Levites twenty years old and up were counted.

Realize now that the Lord has chosen you to build a temple as his sanctuary. Be strong and do it!”

He died at a good old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth, and honor. His son Solomon succeeded him.

Solomon replied to God, “You demonstrated great loyalty to my father David and have made me king in his place.