2Sam 8:1-18
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8
David’s Military Victories
1After this, David defeated and subdued the Philistines by conquering Gath, their largest town.*8:1 Hebrew by conquering Metheg-ammah, a name that means “the bridle,” possibly referring to the size of the town or the tribute money taken from it. Compare
3David also destroyed the forces of Hadadezer son of Rehob, king of Zobah, when Hadadezer marched out to strengthen his control along the Euphrates River.
4David captured 1,000 chariots, 7,000 charioteers,*8:4 As in Dead Sea Scrolls and Greek version (see also
5When Arameans from Damascus arrived to help King Hadadezer, David killed 22,000 of them. 6Then he placed several army garrisons in Damascus, the Aramean capital, and the Arameans became David’s subjects and paid him tribute money. So the Lord made David victorious wherever he went.
7David brought the gold shields of Hadadezer’s officers to Jerusalem,
8along with a large amount of bronze from Hadadezer’s towns of Tebah*8:8 As in some Greek manuscripts (see also
9When King Toi of Hamath heard that David had destroyed the entire army of Hadadezer, 10he sent his son Joram to congratulate King David for his successful campaign. Hadadezer and Toi had been enemies and were often at war. Joram presented David with many gifts of silver, gold, and bronze.
11King David dedicated all these gifts to the Lord, as he did with the silver and gold from the other nations he had defeated—
12from Edom,*8:12 As in a few Hebrew manuscripts and Greek and Syriac versions (see also
13So David became even more famous when he returned from destroying 18,000 Edomites*8:13 As in a few Hebrew manuscripts and Greek and Syriac versions (see also
15So David reigned over all Israel and did what was just and right for all his people.
16Joab son of Zeruiah was commander of the army. Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the royal historian.
17Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were the priests. Seraiah was the court secretary.
18Benaiah son of Jehoiada was captain of the king’s bodyguard.*8:18a Hebrew of the Kerethites and Pelethites. And David’s sons served as priestly leaders.*8:18b Hebrew David’s sons were priests; compare parallel text at