1:1 And Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and YHWH Elohim was with him, and magnified him exceedingly.^1:2 Then Solomon spoke to all Israel, to the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and to the judges, and to every governor in all Israel, the chief of the forefathers.^1:3 So Solomon, and all the company with him, went to the High Place that was at Gibeon; because there was the Tabernacle at the Appointed Place of Elohim, which Moses the slave of YHWH had fashioned in the uninhabited land.^1:4 But the Ark of Elohim had David brought up from Kirjathjearim to the place that David had prepared for it^: because he had pitched a tent for it at Jerusalem.^1:5 Moreover the bronze Altar, that Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, had fashioned, he put before the Tabernacle of YHWH^: and Solomon and the company inquired about it.^1:6 And Solomon went up there to the bronze Altar before YHWH, which was at the Tabernacle at the Appointed Place, and offered 1000 whole Burnt-Offerings upon it.^1:7 In that night did Elohim appear to Solomon and said to him, Ask what I will give you.^1:8 And Solomon replied to Elohim, you have shown great kindness to David my dad, and have made me to reign in his place.^1:9 Now, O YHWH Elohim, let your promise to David my dad be established^: because you have made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude.^1:10 Give me now Wisdom and knowledge so that I may go out and come in before this people^: because who can judge this your people, that is so great? ^1:11 And Elohim replied to Solomon, Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked riches, wealth or honor, neither the life of your enemies, neither yet have asked long life; but have asked Wisdom and knowledge for yourself so that you may judge my people, over whom I have made you king^:1:12 Wisdom and knowledge is granted to you; and I will give you riches, and wealth and honor, such as none of the kings have had that have been before you, neither will there any after you have the like.^1:13 Then Solomon came from his journey to the High Place that was at Gibeon to Jerusalem, from before the Tabernacle at the Appointed Place, and reigned over Israel.^1:14 And Solomon gathered chariots and horsemen^: and he had 1,400 chariots and 12,000 horsemen that he placed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.^1:15 And the king made silver and gold at Jerusalem as plenteous as stones and cedar trees made he as the sycamore trees that are in the lowland for abundance.^1:16 And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt and linen yarn^: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price.^1:17 and they come up, and bring out from Egypt a chariot for 600 shekels [15 lbs.] of silver, and a horse for 150 [3 3/4th lbs.], and so for all the kings of the Hittites, and the kings of Aram - by their hand they bring out.

2:1 And Solomon determined to build a Temple for the Name of YHWH, and a house for his kingdom.^2:2 And Solomon conscripted 70,000 men to bear burdens and 80,000 to cut stone in the mountain, and 3,600 to oversee them.^2:3 And Solomon sent to Huram the king of Tyre saying, as you did deal with David my dad, and did send him cedars to build him a house to live in, even so deal with me.^2:4 Behold, I build a Temple to the Name of YHWH Elohim, to consecrate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the whole Burnt-Offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and in the appointed seasons of YHWH our Elohim. This is appointed for the ages to Israel.^2:5 And the Temple that I build is great^: because great is our Elohim above all elohim.^2:6 But who is able to build him a Temple, seeing the skies and cosmos of the universe cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him a Temple, save only to burn sacrifice before him?^2:7 Send me now therefore a man skilled to work in gold, silver, bronze, iron, and in purple, crimson, and blue, and knowing to engrave engravings with the wise men who are with me in Judah and in Jerusalem, who David my dad prepared.^2:8 Send me also cedar trees, fir trees, and algum trees, out of Lebanon^: because I know that your slaves have skill to cut timber in Lebanon; and note, my slaves will be with your slaves,^2:9 even to prepare me timber in abundance^: because the Temple that I am about to build will be great and wonderful.^2:10 And note, I will give to your slaves, the cutters that cut timber, 20,000 measures [125,000 bushels] of beaten wheat, and 20,000 measures [125,000 bushels] of barley, and 20,000 baths [115,000 gallons] of wine, and 20,000 baths [115,000 gallons] of oil.^2:11 Then Huram the king of Tyre answered in writing, which he sent to Solomon, because YHWH has loved his people, he has made you king over them.^2:12 Huram said moreover, blessed is YHWH Elohim of Israel, that fashioned the cosmos and earth, who has given to David the king a wise son, endued with prudence and understanding, that might build a Temple for YHWH, and a house for his kingdom.^2:13 And now I have sent a skilled man, endued with understanding, of Huram my dad's,^2:14 The son of a woman of the daughters of Dan, and his dad was a man of Tyre, skillful to work in gold, silver, bronze, iron, stone, timber, in purple, in blue, and in fine linen, and in crimson. Also to engrave any kind of engraving, and to find out every device that will be put to him, with your skilled men, and with the skilled men of master David your dad.^2:15 Now therefore the wheat, barley, oil, and the wine that my master has spoken of, let him send to his slaves^:2:16 And we will cut wood out of Lebanon, as much as you will need^: and we will bring it to you in floats by sea to Joppa; and you will carry it up to Jerusalem.^2:17 And Solomon numbered all the sojourners that were in the land of Israel, after the numbering with which David his dad had numbered them; and they were found to be 153,600.^2:18 And he set 70,000 of them to be bearers of burdens, and 80,000 to be cutters in the mountain, and 3,600 overseers to set the people a work.

3:1 Then Solomon began to build the Temple of YHWH at Jerusalem in Mount Moriah, where appeared YHWH to David his dad, in the place that David had prepared in the threshing-floor of Ornan the Jebusite.^3:2 And he began to build on the 2nd day of the 2nd month, in the 4th year of his reign.^3:3 Now these are the things in which Solomon was instructed for the building of the House of Elohim. The length by cubits after the first measure was 60 cubits [90 feet], and its width 20 cubits [30 feet].^3:4 And the porch that was in the front of the House, the length of it was according to the width of the house, 20 cubits [30 feet], and its height was 120^: and he overlaid it within with pure gold.^3:5 And the greater house he wainscoted with fir tree, which he overlaid with fine gold, and set on it palm trees and chains.^3:6 And he garnished the Temple with precious stones for beauty^: and the gold was gold of Parvaim.^3:7 He overlaid also the Temple, its beams, posts, and its walls and doors with gold; and engraved cherubim on the walls.^3:8 And he made the Most Holy Place, its length was according to its width of the House, 20 cubits [30 feet], and its width 20 cubits [30 feet] ^: and he overlaid it with fine gold, amounting to 600 talents [23 tons].^3:9 And the weight of the nails was 50 shekels [1 1/4th lbs.] of gold. And he overlaid the upper chambers with gold.^3:10 And in the Most Holy Place he fashioned 2 cherubim of image work, and overlaid them with gold.^3:11 And the wings of the cherubim were 20 cubits [30 feet] long^: one wing of the one cherub was 5 cubits [7 1/2 feet], reaching to the wall of the House^: and the other wing was also 5 cubits [7 1/2 feet], reaching to the wing of the other cherub.^3:12 And one wing of the other cherub was 5 cubits [7 1/2 feet], reaching to the wall of the house^: and the other wing was 5 cubits [7 1/2 feet] also, joining to the wing of the other cherub.^3:13 The wings of these cherubim spread themselves out 20 cubits [30 feet]^: and they stood on their feet, and their faces were inward.^3:14 And he made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson, and fine linen, and designed cherubim on it.^3:15 Also he made before the house two pillars of 35 cubits high [52 feet], and the capital that was on the top of each of them was 5 cubits [7 1/2 feet].^3:16 And he fashioned chains, as in the Holy of Holies, and put them on the heads of the pillars; and made 100 pomegranates, and put them on the chains.^3:17 And he reared up the pillars before the Temple, one on the right hand, and the other on the left; and called the name of that on the right hand Jachin, and the name of that on the left Boaz.

4:1 Moreover he made an Altar of bronze, 20 cubits [30 feet] its length and width of it, and 10 cubits [15 feet] its height.^4:2 Also he made a cast metal sea of 10 cubits [15 feet] from brim to brim, does encompass it all around, and 5 cubits [7 1/2 feet] its height; and a line of 30 cubits [45 feet] did encompass it all around.^4:3 And under it was the similitude of oxen that did encompass it all around^: 10 to a cubit [1 1/2 feet], encompassing the sea all around. Two rows of oxen were cast, when it was cast.^4:4 It stood upon 12 oxen, 3 looking toward the North, and 3 looking toward the West, and 3 looking toward the South, and 3 looking toward the East^: and the sea was set above upon them, and all their back parts were inward.^4:5 And the thickness of it was a hand-width [3 inches], and the brim of it like the work of the brim of a cup, with flowers of lilies; and it received and held 3000 baths [17,500 gallons].^4:6 He made also 10 lavers, and put 5 on the right hand, and 5 on the left, to wash in them^: such things as they offered for the whole Burnt-Offering they washed in them; but the sea was for the priests to wash in.^4:7 And he made 10 candlesticks of gold according to their form, and set them in the Temple, 5 on the right hand, and 5 on the left.^4:8 He made also 10 tables, and placed them in the Temple, 5 on the right side, and 5 on the left. And he made 100 basins of gold.^4:9 Furthermore he made the Court of the Priests, and the Great Court, and doors for the court, and overlaid the doors of them with bronze.^4:10 And he set the sea on the right side of the east end, opposite the south.^4:11 And Huram fashioned the pots, shovels, and basins. And Huram finished the work that he was to make for king Solomon for the House of Elohim;^4:12 To wit, the two pillars, and the pommels, and the capitals that were on the top of the two pillars, and the two wreaths to cover the two pommels of the capitals that were on the top of the pillars;^4:13 And 400 pomegranates on the two wreaths; two rows of pomegranates on each wreath, to cover the two pommels of the capitals that were upon the pillars.^4:14 He made also bases, and lavers he fashioned upon the bases;^4:15 One sea, and 12 oxen under it.^4:16 The pots also, and the shovels, and the three-pronged fork, and all their instruments, did Huram his father fashion for king Solomon for the Temple of YHWH of bright bronze.^4:17 In the plain of Jordan did the king cast them, in the clay ground between Succoth and Zeredathah.^4:18 So Solomon fashioned all these vessels in great abundance^: for the weight of the bronze could not be found out.^4:19 And Solomon fashioned all the vessels that were for the Temple of Elohim, the golden Altar also, and the tables on which the shewbread was set;^4:20 Moreover the candlesticks with their lamps, that they should burn after the manner before the Holy of Holies, of pure gold;^4:21 And the flowers, and the lamps, and the tongs, he made of gold, and that in perfections of gold;^4:22 And the snuffers, basins, spoons, and the censers of pure gold^: and the entry of the Temple, the inner doors for the Most Holy Place, and the doors of the house of the Temple, were of gold.

5:1 So all the work that Solomon fashioned for the Temple of YHWH was finished^: and Solomon brought in all the things that David his dad had consecrated; and the silver, gold, and all the instruments he put among the treasures of the House of Elohim.^5:2 Then Solomon assembled the Elders of Israel, and all the heads of the tribes, the chief of the forefathers of the children of Israel to Jerusalem, to bring up the Ark of the Covenant of YHWH out of the City of David that is Zion.^5:3 Therefore all the men of Israel assembled themselves to the king in the festival that was in the 7th month.^5:4 And all the Elders of Israel came; and the Levites took up the Ark.^5:5 And they brought up the Ark, and the Tabernacle at the Appointed Place, and all the Sacred vessels that were in the Tabernacle, these did the priests and the Levites bring up.^5:6 Also king Solomon, and all the company of Israel that were assembled to him before the Ark, sacrificed sheep and oxen that could not be told nor numbered for multitude.^5:7 And the priests brought in the Ark of the Covenant of YHWH unto its Standing Place, to the Holy of Holies in the Temple, into its Most Holy Place, even under the wings of the cherubim^:5:8 Because the cherubim spread out their wings over the Standing Place of the Ark, and the cherubim covered the Ark and its carrying poles.^5:9 And they drew out the bar-poles from the Ark, that its ends of the poles were seen from the Ark before the Holy of Holies; but they were not seen outside. And there it is to this day.^5:10 There was nothing in the Ark except the two tablets that Moses put in it at Horeb, when YHWH cut out a Covenant with the children of Israel, when they came out of Egypt.^5:11 And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the Holy Place^: (because all the priests that were present were consecrated, and did not then guard by their course^:5:12 Also the Levites that were the singers, all of them of Asaph, of Heman, of Jeduthun, with their sons and their kinsmen, being arrayed in white linen, having cymbals and bagpipes (skin-bags) and lyre, stood at the East end of the Altar, and with them 120 priests sounding with trumpets^:)^5:13 It came to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking YHWH; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised YHWH saying, for he is good; for his goodness is for the ages^: that then the Temple was filled with the cloud-mass, even the Temple of YHWH;^5:14 So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud- mass^: because the glory of YHWH had filled the House of Elohim.

6:1 Then Solomon said, YHWH has said that he would live in the dark cloud.^6:2 But I have built a Temple of residence for you, and an Established Place for your dwelling for the ages.^6:3 And the king turned his face, and blessed the whole company of Israel^: and all the company of Israel stood.^6:4 And he said, blessed is YHWH Elohim of Israel, who has with his hands fulfilled what he spoke with his mouth to my dad David saying,^6:5 Since the day that I brought forth my people out of the land of Egypt I chose no city among all the tribes of Israel to build a House in so that my Name might be there. Neither chose I any man to be a ruler over my people Israel^:6:6 But I have chosen Jerusalem so that my Name might be there; and have chosen David to be over my people Israel.^6:7 Now it was in the heart of David my dad to build a Temple for the Name of YHWH Elohim of Israel.^6:8 But YHWH said to David my dad, Inasmuch as it was in your mind to build a Temple for my Name, you did well in that it was in your mind^:6:9 Notwithstanding you will not build the Temple; but your son that will come out of your loins, he will build the Temple for my Name.^6:10 YHWH therefore has performed his Word that he has spoken^: because I am risen up in the room of David my dad, and am set on the throne of Israel, as YHWH promised, and have built the Temple for the Name of YHWH Elohim of Israel.^6:11 And in it have I put the Ark, in which is the Covenant of YHWH, that he cut out with the children of Israel.^6:12 And he stood before the Altar of YHWH in the presence of all the company of Israel, and spread out his hands^:6:13 Because Solomon had made a bronze scaffold, of 5 cubits long and wide [7 1/2 feet] and 3 cubits high [4 1/2 feet], and had set it in the middle of the court. And on it he stood, and kneeled down upon his knees before all the company of Israel, and spread out his hands toward the skies,^6:14 and said, O YHWH Elohim of Israel, there is no Elohim like you in the cosmos or in the earth; which observes Covenant, and shows goodness to your slaves, that walk before you with all their hearts^:6:15 You that have observed with your slave David my dad what you have promised him; and spoke with your mouth, and have fulfilled it with your hand, as it is this day.^6:16 Now therefore, O YHWH Elohim of Israel, observe with your slave David my dad what you have promised him saying, There will not fail you a man in my sight to sit upon the throne of Israel. Yet so that your children take heed to their way to walk in my Law, as you have walked before me.^6:17 Now then, O YHWH Elohim of Israel, let your Word be verified that you have spoken to your slave David.^6:18 But will Elohim in very deed live with men on the earth? behold, the skies and the cosmos of the universe cannot contain you; how much less this Temple that I have built! ^6:19 Have respect therefore to the prayer of your slave, and to his supplication, O YHWH Elohim, to listen to the cry and the prayer that your slave prays before you^:6:20 That your eyes may be open upon this Temple day and night, upon this Standing Place in which you have said that you would put your Name there; to listen to the prayer that your slave prays toward this Standing Place.^6:21 Listen therefore to the supplications of your slave, and of your people Israel that they will make toward this Standing Place^: hear from your Standing Place, even from the cosmos; and when you hear, forgive.^6:22 If a man sin against his neighbor, and an oath is laid upon him to make him adjure, and the oath comes before your Altar in this Temple;^6:23 Then hear from the cosmos, and do, and judge your slaves, to give back to the wicked, to put his way on his head, and to declare righteous the righteous, to give to him according to his righteousness.^6:24 And if your people Israel are put to the worse before the enemy, because they have sinned against you; and will return and confess your Name, and pray and make supplication before you in this Temple;^6:25 Then hear from the cosmos, and pardon the sin of your people Israel, and bring them back to the land that you gave to them and to their forefathers.^6:26 When the sky is shut up, and there is no rain, because they have sinned against you; still if they pray toward this Standing Place, and confess your Name, from their sin they turn back because you do afflict them -^6:27 Then hear from the cosmos and pardon the sin of your slaves, and of your people Israel, when you have taught them the good way in which they should walk; and send rain upon your land, that you have given to your people for an inheritance.^6:28 If there is famine in the land, if there is plague, if there is blight, or mildew, swarms or locust; if their enemies besiege them in the cities of their land; whatever disease or whatever sickness there is^:6:29 Then what prayer or what supplication will be made from any person, or of all your people Israel, when everyone will know their own disease and their own grief, and will spread out their hands in this Temple^:6:30 Then hear from the cosmos in your Established Place, and pardon, and render to everyone according to all their ways, whose heart you know; (because you only know the hearts of the children of mankind^:)^6:31 That they may fear you, to walk in your ways, so long as they live in the land that you gave to our forefathers.^6:32 Moreover concerning the foreigner that is not of your people Israel, but has come from a far country for your Great Name's sake, and your mighty hand, and your stretched out arm; if they come and pray in this Temple;^6:33 Then hear from the cosmos, even from your Established Place, and do according to all that the foreigner calls to you for. So that all people of the land may know your Name, and fear you, as do your people Israel, and may know that this Temple that I have built is called by your Name.^6:34 If your people go out to war against their enemies by the way that you will send them, and they pray to you toward this city that you have chosen, and the Temple that I have built for your Name;^6:35 Then hear from the cosmos their prayer and their supplication, and maintain their cause.^6:36 If they sin against you, (for there is no man that sins not,) and you are angry with them, and deliver them over before their enemies, and they carry them away captives to a land far off or near;^6:37 if they remember in the land where they are taken captive, and are regretful and make supplication to you in the land of their captivity saying, we have sinned, we have committed depravity, and have acted wrongly.^6:38 If they return to you with all their heart and with all their mind in the land of their captivity, where they have been carried captive, and pray toward their land that you gave to their forefathers, and toward the city that you have chosen, and toward the Temple that I have built for your Name^:6:39 Then hear from the cosmos, even from your Established Place, their prayer and their supplications, and maintain their cause, and pardon your people that have sinned against you.^6:40 Now, my Elohim, let I beseech you, your eyes be open, and let your ears be attentive to the prayers that are made in this Standing Place.^6:41 Now therefore arise O YHWH Elohim, into your Resting Place, you, and the Ark of your strength^: let your priests O YHWH Elohim, be clothed with salvation, and let your saints rejoice in goodness.^6:42 O YHWH Elohim, turn not away the face of your anointed^: remember the faithfulness of David your slave.

7:1 Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, supernatural fire came down from the skies, and consumed the whole Burnt-Offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of YHWH filled the Temple.^7:2 And the priests could not enter into the Temple of YHWH, because the glory of YHWH had filled the YHWH's House.^7:3 And when all the children of Israel saw how the supernatural fire came down, and the glory of YHWH upon the Temple, they bowed themselves with their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped and praised YHWH saying, for he is good; because his goodness is for the ages.^7:4 Then the king and all the people offered sacrifices before YHWH.^7:5 And king Solomon offered a sacrifice of 22,000 oxen, and 120,000 sheep^: so the king and all the people consecrated the Temple of Elohim.^7:6 And the priests waited on their offices^: the Levites also with instruments of music of YHWH that David the king had made to praise YHWH, because his goodness is for the ages, when David praised by their ministry; and the priests sounded trumpets before them, and all Israel stood.^7:7 Moreover Solomon consecrated the middle of the court that was before the Temple of YHWH. Because there he offered whole Burnt-Offerings, and the fat of the Peace- Offerings, because the bronze Altar that Solomon had fashioned was not able to receive the whole Burnt-Offerings, and the tribute, and the fat.^7:8 Also at the same time Solomon observed the Festival 7 days, and all Israel with him, a very great company, from the entering in of Hamath to the river of Egypt.^7:9 And in the 8th day they made a solemn assembly^: because they instituted the consecration of the Altar 7 days, and the Festival 7 days.^7:10 And on the 23rd day of the 7th month he sent the people away to their tents, glad and merry in heart for the goodness that YHWH had shown to David, and to Solomon, and to Israel his people.^7:11 So Solomon finished the Temple of YHWH, and the king's house^: and all that came into Solomon's mind to make in the Temple of YHWH, and in his own house, he prosperously effected.^7:12 And YHWH appeared to Solomon by night and said to him, I have heard your prayer, and have chosen this Standing Place to myself for a House of Sacrifice.^7:13 If I shut up the sky so that there is no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send plagues among my people;^7:14 If my people that are called by my Name will humble themselves, and pray, and seek my presence, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from the cosmos, and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.^7:15 Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this Standing Place.^7:16 Because now I have chosen and consecrated this Temple so that my Name may be there for the ages^: and my eyes and my heart will be there evening and morning.^7:17 And as for you, if you will walk before me, as David your dad walked, and do according to all that I have commanded you, and will observe my statutes and my judgments;^7:18 Then I will establish the throne of your kingdom, according as I have cut out (pledged) with David your dad saying, there will not fail you a man to be ruler in Israel.^7:19 But if you turn away, and forsake my statutes and my commandments that I have set before you, and will go and serve other elohim, and worship them;^7:20 Then I will pluck them up by the roots out of my land that I have given them; and this Temple, which I have consecrated for my Name, I will cast out of my sight, and will make it to be a proverb and a byword among all nations.^7:21 And this House, which is high, will be an astonishment to everyone that passes by it; so that he will say, why has YHWH done so to this land, and to this Temple?^7:22 And it will be answered, because they forsook YHWH Elohim of their forefathers that brought them out of the land of Egypt, and laid hold on other elohim and worshipped them, and served them^: therefore has he brought all this calamity upon them.

8:1 And it came to pass at the end of 20 years, in which Solomon had built the Temple of YHWH, and his own house,^8:2 that the cities which Huram had restored to Solomon, Solomon built them, and caused the children of Israel to live there.^8:3 And Solomon went to Hamathzobah, and prevailed against it.^8:4 And he built Tadmor in the wilderness, and all the store cities that he built in Hamath.^8:5 Also he built Bethhoron the upper, and Bethhoron the lower, fenced cities, with walls, gates, and bars;^8:6 And Baalath, and all the store cities that Solomon had, and all the chariot cities, and the cities of the horsemen, and all that Solomon desired to build in Jerusalem, and in Lebanon, and throughout all the land of his dominion.^8:7 As for all the people that were left of the Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and the Jebusites that were not of Israel,^8:8 but of their children, who were left after them in the land, who the children of Israel consumed not, those did Solomon make to pay tribute until this day.^8:9 But of the children of Israel did Solomon make no slaves for his work; but they were men of war, and chief of his captains, and captains of his chariots and horsemen.^8:10 And these were the chief of king Solomon's officers, even 250 that ruled over the people.^8:11 And Solomon brought up the daughter of Pharaoh out of the City of David to the house that he had built for her. Because he said, my wife will not live in the house of David king of Israel, because those places are sacred, there the Ark of YHWH has come.^8:12 Then Solomon offered whole Burnt-Offerings to YHWH on the Altar of YHWH that he had built before the porch.^8:13 Even after a certain rate every day, offering according to the commandment of Moses, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the appointed seasons, three times in the year, even in the Festival of Unleavened Bread, and in the festival of weeks, and in the festival of tabernacles.^8:14 And he appointed, according to the order of David his dad, the courses of the priests to their service, and the Levites to their charges, to praise and minister before the priests, as the duty of every day required. The porters also by their courses at every gate^: because so had David the man of Elohim commanded.^8:15 And they departed not from the commandment of the king to the priests and Levites concerning any matter, or concerning the treasures.^8:16 Now all the work of Solomon was prepared from the day of the foundation of the Temple of YHWH, and until it was finished. So the Temple of YHWH was completed.^8:17 Then Solomon went to Eziongeber, and to Eloth, at the seaside in the land of Edom.^8:18 And Huram sent him by the hands of his slave ships, and slaves that had knowledge of the sea; and they went with the slaves of Solomon to Ophir, and took from there 450 talents [17 tons] of gold, and brought them to king Solomon.

9:1 And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon, she came to test Solomon with hard questions at Jerusalem, with a very great company, and camels that carried spices, and gold in abundance, and precious stones. And when she had come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her mind.^9:2 And Solomon told her all her questions^: and there was nothing hidden from Solomon that he told her not.^9:3 And when the queen of Sheba had seen the Wisdom of Solomon and the house that he had built,^9:4 And the food of his table, and the sitting of his slaves, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel; his cup-bearers also, and their apparel; and his ascent by which he went up into the Temple of YHWH; there was no more spirit in her.^9:5 Then she said to the king, it was a true report that I heard in my own land of your acts and of your Wisdom^:9:6 But I believed not their words, until I came and my eyes had seen it^: and, look, the one half of the greatness of your Wisdom was not told me^: because you exceeded the fame that I heard.^9:7 Happy are your men, and happy are these your slaves that stand continually before you, and hear your Wisdom.^9:8 Let YHWH your Elohim be blessed who has delighted in you, to put you on his throne to be king for YHWH your Elohim; in the love of your Elohim to Israel, to establish it to the age. He has put you over them for king, to do judgment and righteousness.^9:9 And she gave the king 120 talents [4 1/2 tons] of gold, and of spices great abundance, and precious stones^: neither was there any such spice as the queen of Sheba gave king Solomon.^9:10 And the slaves also of Huram, and the slaves of Solomon that brought gold from Ophir, brought algum trees and precious stones.^9:11 And the king made of the algum trees terraces to the House of YHWH, and to the king's palace, and lyres and bagpipes (skin-bags) for singers^: and there were none such seen before in the land of Judah.^9:12 And king Solomon gave to the queen of Sheba all her desire, whatever she asked, besides what she had brought to the king. So she returned, and went back to her own land, she and her slaves.^9:13 Now the weight of gold that came to Solomon in one year was 666 talents [25 tons] of gold;^9:14 Besides what merchants and traders brought. And all the kings of Arabia and governors of the country brought gold and silver to Solomon.^9:15 And king Solomon made 200 shields of beaten gold^: 600 shekels [7 1/2 lbs.] of beaten gold went to one shield.^9:16 And 300 shields he made of beaten gold^: 300 shekels [3 3/4th lbs.] of gold went to one shield. And the king put them in the house of the forest of Lebanon.^9:17 Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold.^9:18 And there were 6 steps to the throne, with a footstool of gold, which were fastened to the throne, and stays on each side of the sitting place, and two lions standing by the stays^:9:19 And 12 lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the 6 steps. There was not the like made in any kingdom.^9:20 And all the drinking vessels of king Solomon were of gold, and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were of pure gold^: none were of silver; it was not anything accounted of in the days of Solomon.^9:21 Because the king's ships went to Tarshish with the slaves of Huram^: the ships of Tarshish came once every three years bringing gold, silver, ivory, and apes and peacocks.^9:22 And king Solomon surpassed all the kings of the earth in riches and Wisdom.^9:23 And all the kings of the earth desired the presence of Solomon, to hear his Wisdom that Elohim had put in his mind.^9:24 And they brought every man his present, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and garments, weapons, spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.^9:25 And Solomon had 4000 stalls for horses and chariots, and 12,000 horsemen; who he bestowed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.^9:26 And he reigned over all the kings from the river even to the land of the Philistines, and to the border of Egypt.^9:27 And the king made silver in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycamore trees that are in the low plains in abundance.^9:28 And they brought to Solomon horses out of Egypt, and out of all lands.^9:29 Now the rest of the acts of Solomon, first and last, are they not written in the Book of Nathan the prophet, and in the prophecy of Ahijah the Shilonite, and in the visions of Iddo the seer against Jeroboam the son of Nebat? ^9:30 And Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel 40 years.^9:31 And Solomon slept with his forefathers, and he was buried in the City of David his dad^: and Rehoboam his son reigned in his place.

10:1 And Rehoboam went to Shechem^: because to Shechem were all Israel come to make him king.^10:2 And it came to pass, when Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who was in Egypt, where he had fled from the presence of Solomon the king, heard it, that Jeroboam returned out of Egypt.^10:3 And they sent and called him. So Jeroboam and all Israel came and spoke to Rehoboam saying,^10:4 Your dad made our yoke grievous^: now therefore ease somewhat the grievous servitude of your dad, and his heavy yoke that he put upon us, and we will serve you.^10:5 And he replied to them, come back to me after three days. So the people departed.^10:6 Then king Rehoboam took counsel with the old men that had stood before Solomon his dad while he still lived saying, what counsel do you give me to return answer to these people?^10:7 And they spoke to him saying, if you are kind to this people, and please them, and speak good words to them, they will be your servants for your lifetime.^10:8 But he forsook the counsel that the old men gave him, and took counsel with the young men that were brought up with him, that stood before him.^10:9 And he said to them, what advice do you give that we may return answer to these people that have spoken to me saying, ease somewhat the yoke that your dad did put upon us?^10:10 And the young men that were brought up with him spoke to him saying, so will you answer the people that spoke to you saying, your dad made our yoke heavy, but make it somewhat lighter for us; so will you reply to them, my little finger will be thicker than my dad's hips.^10:11 Because whereas my dad put a heavy yoke upon you, I will put more to your yoke^: my dad disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions.^10:12 So Jeroboam and all the people came to Rehoboam on the 3rd day, as the king commanded saying, come back to me on the 3rd day.^10:13 And the king answered them roughly; and king Rehoboam forsook the counsel of the old men,^10:14 And answered them after the advice of the young men saying, my dad made your yoke heavy, but I will add to it^: my dad disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions.^10:15 So the king listened not to the people^: because the cause was of Elohim so that YHWH might perform his Word that he spoke by the hand of Ahijah the Shilonite to Jeroboam the son of Nebat.^10:16 And when all Israel saw that the king would not listen to them, the people answered the king saying, what portions have we in David? and we have no inheritance in the son of Jesse^: everyone to your tents O Israel^: and now, David, see to your own house. So all Israel went to their tents.^10:17 But as for the children of Israel that lived in the cities of Judah, Rehoboam reigned over them.^10:18 Then king Rehoboam sent Hadoram that was over the tribute; and the children of Israel stoned him with stones so that he died. But king Rehoboam made speed to get himself up to his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem.^10:19 And Israel rebelled against the house of David to this day.

11:1 And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he gathered of the house of Judah and Benjamin 180,000 chosen men, who were warriors, to fight against Israel, so that he might bring the kingdom back to Rehoboam.^11:2 But the Word of YHWH came to Shemaiah the man of Elohim saying,^11:3 speak to Rehoboam the son of Solomon, king of Judah, and to all Israel in Judah and Benjamin saying,^11:4 This is what YHWH declares, You will not go up or fight against your kinsmen^: return every man to his house^: because this thing is done of me. And they obeyed the Words of YHWH, and returned from going against Jeroboam.^11:5 And Rehoboam lived in Jerusalem, and built cities for defense in Judah.^11:6 He built even Bethlehem, Etam, Tekoa,^11:7 Bethzur, Shoco, Adullam,^11:8 Gath, Mareshah, Ziph,^11:9 Adoraim, Lachish, Azekah,^11:10 Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron that are in Judah and in Benjamin fenced cities.^11:11 And he fortified the strongholds, and put captains in them, and stores of food, and of oil and wine.^11:12 And in every several city he put shields and spears, and made them exceedingly strong, having Judah and Benjamin on his side.^11:13 And the priests and the Levites that were in all Israel resorted to him out of all their coasts.^11:14 Because the Levites left their suburbs and their possession, and came to Judah and Jerusalem^: because Jeroboam and his sons had cast them off from executing the priest's office to YHWH^:11:15 And he ordained himself priests for the high places, and for the satyr, and for the calves that he had fashioned.^11:16 And after them out of all the tribes of Israel such as set their hearts to seek YHWH Elohim of Israel came to Jerusalem, to sacrifice to YHWH Elohim of their forefathers.^11:17 So they strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and made Rehoboam the son of Solomon strong, three years^: because for three years they walked in the way of David and Solomon.^11:18 Then Rehoboam took himself Mahalath the daughter of Jerimoth the son of David to wife, and Abihail the daughter of Eliab the son of Jesse;^11:19 Which gendered him children; Jeush, Shamariah, and Zaham.^11:20 And after her he took Maachah the daughter of Absalom; which gendered him Abijah, Attai, Ziza, and Shelomith.^11:21 And Rehoboam loved Maachah the daughter of Absalom above all his wives and his concubines^: (because he took 18 wives, and 60 concubines; and gendered 28 sons, and 60 daughters.)^11:22 Then Rehoboam made Abijah the son of Maachah the chief, to be ruler among his kinsmen^: because he thought to make him king.^11:23 And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and Benjamin, to every fenced city^: and he gave them food in abundance. And he desired many wives.

12:1 And it came to pass, when Rehoboam had established the kingdom, and had strengthened himself, he forsook the Torah of YHWH and all Israel with him.^12:2 And it came to pass, that in the 5th year of king Rehoboam Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem, because they had transgressed against YHWH,^12:3 with 1,200 chariots, and 60,000 horsemen^: and the people were without number that came with him out of Egypt; the Lubims, Sukkiims, and the Ethiopians.^12:4 And he took the fenced cities that pertained to Judah, and came to Jerusalem.^12:5 Then Shemaiah the prophet came to Rehoboam, and to the princes of Judah, that were gathered together to Jerusalem because of Shishak, and said to them, This is what YHWH declares, You have forsaken me, and therefore I have also left you in the hand of Shishak.^12:6 Whereupon the princes of Israel and the king humbled themselves; and they said, YHWH is righteous.^12:7 And when YHWH saw that they humbled themselves, the Word of YHWH came to Shemaiah saying, They have humbled themselves; therefore I will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliverance; and my anger will not be poured out upon Jerusalem by the hand of Shishak.^12:8 Nevertheless they will be his slaves; that they may know my service, and the service of the kingdoms of the countries.^12:9 So Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem, and took away the treasures of the House of YHWH, and the treasures of the king's house; he took all^: he carried away also the shields of gold that Solomon had fashioned.^12:10 In place of which king Rehoboam fashioned shields of bronze, and appointed them to the hands of the chief of the guard, that guarded the entrance of the king's house.^12:11 And when the king entered into the House of YHWH, the guard came and fetched them, and brought them back into the guard chamber.^12:12 And when he humbled himself, the anger of YHWH turned from him so that he would not destroy him altogether^: and also in Judah things went well.^12:13 So king Rehoboam strengthened himself in Jerusalem and reigned^: because Rehoboam was 41 years old when he began to reign, and he reigned 17 years in Jerusalem, the city that YHWH had chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, to put his Name there. And his mother's name was Naamah an Ammonitess.^12:14 And he did bad, because he prepared not his heart to inquire of YHWH.^12:15 Now the acts of Rehoboam, first and last, are they not written in the Book of Shemaiah the prophet, and of Iddo the seer concerning genealogies? And there were wars between Rehoboam and Jeroboam continually.^12:16 Then Rehoboam slept with his forefathers, and was buried in the City of David^: and Abijah his son reigned in his place.

13:1 Now in the 18th year of king Jeroboam began Abijah to reign over Judah.^13:2 He reigned 3 years in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Michaiah the daughter of Uriel of Gibeah. And there was war between Abijah and Jeroboam.^13:3 And Abijah set the battle in formation with an army of valiant men of war, even 400,000 chosen men^: Jeroboam also set the battle in formation against him with 800,000 chosen men, being mighty men of valor.^13:4 And Abijah stood up upon Mount Zemaraim, which is in Mount Ephraim, and said, hear me, you Jeroboam and all Israel;^13:5 Is it not for you to know that YHWH, Elohim of Israel, has given the kingdom to David over Israel for the age, to him and to his sons - a Covenant of Salt?^13:6 Still Jeroboam the son of Nebat, the slave of Solomon the son of David, is risen up, and has rebelled against his master.^13:7 And there are gathered to him vain men, the children of Belial (worthless), and have strengthened themselves against Rehoboam the son of Solomon, when Rehoboam was young and tenderhearted, and could not withstand them.^13:8 And now you think to withstand the Kingdom of YHWH in the hand of the sons of David; and you are a great multitude, and there are with you golden calves that Jeroboam fashioned for you as elohim.^13:9 Have you not cast out the priests of YHWH, the sons of Aaron and the Levites, and have made yourself priests after the customs of the nations of other lands? so that whoever comes to consecrate himself with a young bull and 7 rams, the same may be a priest of them that are not Elohim.^13:10 But as for us, YHWH is our Elohim, and we have not forsaken him; and the priests that minister to YHWH, are the sons of Aaron and the Levites that attend to their business^:13:11 And they sacrifice to YHWH every sunrise and every sunset whole Burnt- Offerings and spice incense. The shewbread also set they in order upon the clean table; and the candlestick of gold with its lamps, to burn every evening^: because we observe the charge of YHWH our Elohim; but you have forsaken him.^13:12 And behold, Elohim himself is with us for our captain, and his priests with sounding trumpets to cry alarm against you. O children of Israel, fight not against YHWH Elohim of your forefathers; because you will not prosper.^13:13 But Jeroboam caused an ambush to come around behind them^: so they were before Judah, and the ambush was behind them.^13:14 And when Judah looked back, lo, the battle was before and behind^: and they cried to YHWH, and the priests sounded with the trumpets.^13:15 Then the men of Judah gave a shout^: and as the men of Judah shouted, it came to pass, that Elohim struck Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah.^13:16 And the children of Israel fled before Judah^: and Elohim delivered them into their hand.^13:17 And Abijah and his people killed them with a great slaughter^: so there fell down killed of Israel 500,000 chosen men.^13:18 So the children of Israel were brought under at that time, and the children of Judah prevailed, because they relied on YHWH Elohim of their forefathers.^13:19 And Abijah pursued after Jeroboam, and captured cities from him, Bethel with its towns, and Jeshanah with its towns, and Ephrain with its towns.^13:20 Neither did Jeroboam recover strength again in the days of Abijah^: and YHWH struck him, and he died.^13:21 But Abijah grew mighty and married 14 women, and gendered 22 sons and 16 daughters.^13:22 And the rest of the acts of Abijah, and his ways and his sayings, are written in the story of the prophet Iddo.

14:1 So Abijah slept with his forefathers, and they buried him in the City of David^: and Asa his son reigned in his place. In his days the land was quiet 10 years.^14:2 And Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of YHWH his Elohim^:14:3 Because he took away the altars of the foreign elohim, and the high places, and broke down the images, and cut down the groves^:14:4 And commanded Judah to inquire of YHWH Elohim of their forefathers, and to institute the Torah and the commandment.^14:5 Also he took away out of all the cities of Judah the high places and the images^: and the kingdom was quiet before him.^14:6 And he built fenced cities in Judah^: because the land had rest and he had no war in those years; because YHWH had given him rest.^14:7 Therefore he said to Judah, let us build these cities and make around them walls, towers, gates and bars, while the land is still before us; because we have sought YHWH Elohim, we have inquired of him, and he has given us rest on every side. So they built and prospered.^14:8 And Asa had an army that carried shields and spears, out of Judah 300,000; and out of Benjamin, that carried shields and drew bows, 280,000^: all these were mighty men of valor.^14:9 And there came out against them Zerah the Ethiopian with an army of millions and 300 chariots; and came to Mareshah.^14:10 Then Asa went out against him, and they set the battle in formation in the Valley of Zephathah at Mareshah.^14:11 And Asa cried to YHWH Elohim and said, YHWH, it is nothing with you to help, whether with many or with them that have no power^: help us O YHWH Elohim; because we trust on you, and in your Name we go against this multitude. O YHWH, you are our Elohim; let not man prevail against you.^14:12 So YHWH struck the Ethiopians before Asa, and before Judah; and the Ethiopians fled.^14:13 And Asa and the people that were with him pursued them to Gerar^: and the Ethiopians were overthrown so that they could not recover themselves; because they were destroyed before YHWH, and before his Host; and they carried away very much booty.^14:14 And they struck all the cities all around Gerar; because the fear of YHWH came upon them^: and they plundered all the cities; because there was exceedingly much booty in them.^14:15 They struck also the tents of cattle, and carried away sheep and camels in abundance, and returned to Jerusalem.

15:1 And the Spirit of Elohim came upon Azariah the son of Oded^:15:2 And he went out to meet Asa and said to him, hear me Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; YHWH is with you, while you are with him; and if you inquire of him, he will be found of you; but if you forsake him, he will forsake you.^15:3 Now for a long season Israel has been without the true Elohim, and without a teaching priest, and without Torah.^15:4 But when they in their trouble did turn to YHWH Elohim of Israel, and sought him, he was found of them.^15:5 And in those times there was no peace to him that went out, nor to him that came in, but great vexations were on all the inhabitants of the countries.^15:6 And nation was destroyed of nation, and city of city^: because Elohim did vex them with all adversity.^15:7 Be you strong therefore and let not your hands be weak^: because your work will be rewarded.^15:8 And when Asa heard these words, and the prophecy of Oded the prophet, he took courage, and put away the detestable idols out of all the land of Judah and Benjamin, and out of the cities that he had taken from Mount Ephraim, and renewed the Altar of YHWH that was before the porch of YHWH.^15:9 And he gathered all Judah and Benjamin, and the sojourners with them out of Ephraim and Manasseh, and out of Simeon^: because they fell to him out of Israel in abundance, when they saw that YHWH Elohim was with him.^15:10 So they gathered themselves together at Jerusalem in the 3rd month, in the 15th year of the reign of Asa.^15:11 And they offered to YHWH the same time, of the plunder that they had brought, 700 oxen and 7000 sheep.^15:12 And they entered into a Covenant to inquire of YHWH Elohim of their forefathers with all their heart and with their entire mind;^15:13 That whoever would not inquire of YHWH Elohim of Israel should be put to death, whether small or great, whether man or woman.^15:14 And they adjured to YHWH with a loud voice, and with shouting and with trumpets, and with ram's horn.^15:15 And all Judah rejoiced at the oath^: because they had adjured with their entire mind, and sought him with their whole desire; and he was found of them^: and YHWH gave them rest all around.^15:16 And also concerning Maachah the mother of Asa the king, he removed her from being queen, because she had made an idol in a grove^: and Asa cut down her idol, and stamped it, and burned it at the Wadi of Kidron.^15:17 But the high places (cultic platforms) were not taken away out of Israel^: nevertheless the heart of Asa was whole all his days.^15:18 And he brought into the Temple of Elohim the things that his dad had dedicated, and that he himself had dedicated, silver, and gold, and vessels.^15:19 And there was no more war to the 35th year of the reign of Asa.

16:1 In the 36th year of the reign of Asa Baasha king of Israel came up against Judah, and built Ramah, to the intent that he might let none go out or come in to Asa king of Judah.^16:2 Then Asa brought out silver and gold out of the treasury of the House of YHWH and of the king's house, and sent to Benhadad king of Syria, that lived at Damascus saying,^16:3 there is a league between me and you, as there was between my dad and your dad^: look, I have sent you silver and gold; go, break your league with Baasha king of Israel so that he may depart from me.^16:4 And Benhadad listened to king Asa, and sent the captains of his armies against the cities of Israel; and they struck Ijon, and Dan, and Abelmaim, and all the storage cities of Naphtali.^16:5 And it came to pass, when Baasha heard it, that he quit the building of Ramah, and let his work cease.^16:6 Then Asa the king took all Judah; and they carried away the stones of Ramah, and its timber that Baasha was building with; and he built with it Geba and Mizpah.^16:7 And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said to him, because you have relied on the king of Syria, and not relied on YHWH Elohim, therefore is the army of the king of Syria escaped out of your hand.^16:8 Were not the Ethiopians and the Lubims a huge army, with very many chariots and horsemen? still, because you did rely on YHWH, he delivered them into your hand.^16:9 Because the eyes of YHWH run to and fro throughout the whole land, to show himself strong in behalf of them whose heart is whole toward him. But you have done foolishly^: therefore from now on you will have wars.^16:10 Then Asa was angry with the seer, and put him in a prison compound; because he was in a rage with him because of this thing. And Asa oppressed some of the people at that same time.^16:11 And behold, the acts of Asa, first and last, lo, they are written in the Book of Kings of Judah and Israel.^16:12 And Asa in the 39th year of his reign became diseased in his feet, until his disease was exceedingly great^: still in his disease he inquired not to YHWH, but to the physicians.^16:13 Then Asa slept with his forefathers, and died in the 41st year of his reign.^16:14 And they buried him in his own tomb that he had made for himself in the City of David, and laid him in the bed that was filled with sweet smells and different kinds of spices prepared by the apothecaries' art^: and they burned a very great burning for him.

17:1 And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his place, and strengthened himself against Israel.^17:2 And he placed forces in all the fenced cities of Judah, and set garrisons in the land of Judah, and in the cities of Ephraim that Asa his dad had captured.^17:3 And YHWH was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his ancestor David, and sought not to Baalim;^17:4 But inquired of Elohim of his Father, and walked in his commandments, and not after the deeds of Israel.^17:5 Therefore YHWH established the kingdom in his hand; and all Judah brought to Jehoshaphat presents; and he had riches and honor in abundance.^17:6 And his heart was lifted up in the ways of YHWH^: moreover he removed the high places and groves out of Judah.^17:7 Also in the 3rd year of his reign he sent to his princes, even to Benhail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethaneel, and to Michaiah, to teach in the cities of Judah.^17:8 And with them he sent Levites, even Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tobadonijah, Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, priests.^17:9 And they taught in Judah, and had the Book of the Torah of YHWH with them, and went about throughout all the cities of Judah, and taught the people.^17:10 And the fear of YHWH fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were all around Judah so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat.^17:11 Also some of the Philistines brought Jehoshaphat presents, and tribute silver; and the Arabians brought him flocks, 7,700 rams, and 7,700 he-goats.^17:12 And Jehoshaphat grew exceedingly great; and he built in Judah castles, and cities of storage.^17:13 And he had much business in the cities of Judah^: and the men of war, mighty men of valor were in Jerusalem.^17:14 And these are the numbers of them according to the house of their forefathers^: Of Judah, the captains of thousands; Adnah the chief, and with him mighty men of valor 300,000.^17:15 And next to him was Jehohanan the captain, and with him 280,000.^17:16 And next him was Amasiah the son of Zichri, who willingly offered himself to YHWH; and with him 200,000 mighty men of valor.^17:17 And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valor, and with him armed men with bow and shield 200,000.^17:18 And next to him was Jehozabad, and with him 180,000 ready and prepared for the war.^17:19 These waited on the king, beside those whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.

18:1 Now Jehoshaphat had riches and honor in abundance, and became related by marriage with Ahab.^18:2 And after a number of years he went down to Ahab to Samaria. And Ahab killed sheep and oxen for him in abundance, and for the people that he had with him, and persuaded him to go up with him to Ramothgilead.^18:3 And Ahab king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat king of Judah, will you go with me to Ramothgilead? And he answered him, I am as you are, and my people as your people; and we will be with you in the war.^18:4 And Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, inquire, I ask you at the Word of YHWH today.^18:5 Therefore the king of Israel gathered together of prophets 400 men, and said to them, will we go to Ramothgilead to battle or will I forbear? And they said, go up; because Elohim will deliver it into the king's hand.^18:6 But Jehoshaphat said, is there not here a prophet of YHWH besides these that we might inquire of him? ^18:7 And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, there is still one man, by whom we may inquire of YHWH^: but I hate him; because he never prophesied good to me, but always bad^: the same is Micaiah the son of Imla. But Jehoshaphat replied, let not the king say so.^18:8 Then the king of Israel called for one of his officers and said, fetch quickly Micaiah the son of Imla.^18:9 And the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah sat either of them on his throne, clothed in their robes, and they sat in a threshing-floor at the entering in of the gate of Samaria; and all the prophets prophesied before them.^18:10 And Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah had made him horns of iron and said, so says YHWH, with these you will push Syria until they are consumed.^18:11 And all the prophets prophesied so saying, go up to Ramothgilead and prosper^: because YHWH will deliver it into the hand of the king.^18:12 And the messenger that went to call Micaiah spoke to him saying, see, the words of the prophets declare good to the king with one consent; let your word therefore I ask you, be like one of theirs, and speak you good.^18:13 But Micaiah replied, as YHWH lives, even what my Elohim declares, that I will speak.^18:14 And when he had come to the king, the king said to him, Micaiah, will we go to Ramothgilead to battle, or will I forbear? And he replied, go up and prosper, and they will be delivered into your hand.^18:15 But the king replied to him, how many times will I adjure you that you say nothing but the Truth to me in the Name of YHWH?^18:16 Then he said, I did see all Israel scattered upon the mountains, as sheep that have no shepherd^: and YHWH said, These have no master; let them return therefore every man to his house in peace.^18:17 And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, did I not tell you that he would not prophesy good to me, but bad?^18:18 Again he said, Therefore hear the Word of YHWH; I saw YHWH sitting upon his throne, and all the Host of the cosmos standing on his right hand and on his left.^18:19 And YHWH said, Who will entice Ahab king of Israel so that he may go up and fall at Ramothgilead? And one spoke saying after this manner and another saying after that manner.^18:20 Then there came out a spirit, and stood before YHWH, and said, I will entice him. And YHWH said to him, How?^18:21 And he replied, I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets. And he replied, You will entice him, and you will also prevail^: go out and do so.^18:22 Now therefore, behold, YHWH has put a lying spirit in the mouth of these your prophets, and YHWH has spoken bad against you.^18:23 Then Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah came near, and struck Micaiah on the cheek and said, which way went the Spirit of YHWH from me to speak to you? ^18:24 And Micaiah replied, Behold, you will see on that day when you will go into an inner chamber to hide yourself.^18:25 Then the king of Israel said, take Micaiah and carry him back to Amon the governor of the city, and to Joash the king's son;^18:26 And say, this is what the king commands, put this man in the prison, and feed him with bread of affliction and with water of affliction, until I return in peace.^18:27 Then Micaiah replied, If you certainly return in peace, then YHWH has not spoken by me. And he said, listen, all you people.^18:28 So the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat the king of Judah went up to Ramothgilead.^18:29 And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, I will disguise myself and will go to the battle; but you put on your robes. So the king of Israel disguised himself; and they went to the battle.^18:30 Now the king of Syria had commanded the captains of the chariots that were with him saying, fight not with small or great, except only with the king of Israel.^18:31 And it came to pass, when the captains of the chariots saw Jehoshaphat, that they said, it is the king of Israel. Therefore they surrounded him to fight^: but Jehoshaphat cried out and YHWH helped him; and Elohim moved them to depart from him.^18:32 Because it came to pass, that when the captains of the chariots perceived that it was not the king of Israel, they turned back again from pursuing him.^18:33 And a man had drawn with a bow, in his simplicity, and struck the king of Israel between the joints and the coat of mail, and he said to the charioteer, turn your hand, and you have brought me out of the camp, because I have become sick.^18:34 And the battle increased that day^: but the king of Israel propped himself up in his chariot against the Syrians until sunset^: and about the time of its setting he died.

19:1 And Jehoshaphat the king of Judah returned to his house in peace to Jerusalem.^19:2 And Jehu the son of Hanani the seer went out to meet him, and said to king Jehoshaphat, should you help the ungodly, and love them that hate YHWH? and for this against you is anger from before YHWH,^19:3 Nevertheless there are good things found in you, in that you have taken away the groves out of the land, and have prepared your heart to inquire of Elohim.^19:4 And Jehoshaphat lived at Jerusalem^: and he went out again through the people from Beersheba to Mount Ephraim, and brought them back to YHWH Elohim of their forefathers.^19:5 And he set judges in the land throughout all the fenced cities of Judah, city by city,^19:6 And said to the judges, take heed what you do^: because you judge not for man, but for YHWH, who is with you in the judgment.^19:7 Therefore now let the fear of YHWH be upon you; take heed and do it^: because there is no wrong with YHWH Elohim, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts.^19:8 Moreover in Jerusalem did Jehoshaphat set of the Levites, and of the priests, and of the chief of the fathers of Israel, because for the judgment of YHWH, and for disputes, when they returned to Jerusalem.^19:9 And he charged them saying, so will you do in the fear of YHWH, faithfully, and with a whole heart.^19:10 And whatever cause will come to you of your kinsmen that live in their cities, between blood and blood, between law and commandment, statutes and judgments, you will even warn them that they trespass not against YHWH, and so anger comes upon you, and upon your kinsmen. This do, and you will not trespass.^19:11 And behold, Amariah the chief priest is over you in all matters of YHWH; and Zebadiah the son of Ishmael, the ruler of the house of Judah, for all the king's matters^: also the Levites will be officers before you. Deal courageously, and YHWH will be with the good.

20:1 It came to pass after this also, that the children of Moab and the children of Ammon, and with them others beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle.^20:2 Then there came some that told Jehoshaphat saying, there comes a great multitude against you from beyond the sea on this side Syria; and behold, they are in Hazazontamar, that is Engedi.^20:3 And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to inquire of YHWH, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.^20:4 And Judah gathered themselves together, to ask help of YHWH^: even out of all the cities of Judah they came to seek YHWH.^20:5 Then Jehoshaphat stood in the company of Judah and Jerusalem, in the Temple of YHWH, before the new court,^20:6 and said, O YHWH Elohim of our forefathers, are not you Elohim in the cosmos? and rule you not over all the kingdoms of the nations? and in your hand is there not power and might, so that none are able to withstand you?^20:7 Are you not our Elohim, who did drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham your friend for the ages?^20:8 And they lived there, and have built you a Sanctuary for your Name saying,^20:9 if, when bad comes upon us, as the sword, judgment, plague or famine, we stand before this Temple, and in your presence, (because your Name is in this House,) and cry to you in our affliction, then you will hear and help.^20:10 And now, look, the children of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir, who you would not let Israel invade, when they came out of the land of Egypt, but they turned from them and destroyed them not;^20:11 Observe, I say, how they reward us, to come to cast us out of your possession that you have given us to inherit.^20:12 O our Elohim, will you not judge them? because we have no might against this great company that comes against us; neither know we what to do^: but our eyes are on you.^20:13 And all Judah stood before YHWH, with their little ones, their women and their children.^20:14 Then upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, came the Spirit of YHWH in the midst of the company;^20:15 And he said, listen all Judah, and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and king Jehoshaphat, This is what YHWH declares to you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; because the battle is not yours, but Elohim's.^20:16 Tomorrow go down against them^: behold, they come up by the cliff of Ziz; and you will find them at the end of the brook, before the wilderness of Jeruel.^20:17 You will not need to fight in this battle^: set yourselves, stand still, and see the salvation of YHWH with you, O Judah and Jerusalem^: fear not or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them^: because YHWH will be with you.^20:18 Then Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground^: and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell before YHWH, worshipping YHWH.^20:19 And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites, and of the children of the Korhites, stood up to praise YHWH Elohim of Israel with a loud voice on higher ground.^20:20 And they rose early in the morning, and went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. And as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, hear me O Judah, and you inhabitants of Jerusalem; believe in YHWH Elohim, so will you be established; believe his prophets, so you will prosper.^20:21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers to YHWH, and that should praise the beauty of Holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, praise YHWH; because his goodness is for the ages.^20:22 And when they began to sing and to praise, YHWH set ambushes against the children of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were struck down.^20:23 Because the children of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of Mount Seir, utterly to kill and destroy them^: and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, everyone helped to destroy another.^20:24 And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked to the multitude, and behold, there were dead bodies fallen to the ground and none escaped.^20:25 And when Jehoshaphat and his people came to remove the booty of them, they found among them in abundance both riches with the dead bodies, and precious jewels that they stripped off for themselves, more than they could carry away. And they were 3 days in gathering of the plunder because it was so much.^20:26 And on the 4th day they assembled themselves in the Valley of Berachah; for there they blessed YHWH^: therefore the name of the same place was called, The Valley of Berachah to this day.^20:27 Then they returned, every man of Judah and Jerusalem and Jehoshaphat in the forefront of them, to go again to Jerusalem with joy; because YHWH had made them to rejoice over their enemies.^20:28 And they came to Jerusalem with bagpipes (skin-bags) and lyres and trumpets to the Temple of YHWH.^20:29 And the fear of Elohim was on all the kingdoms of those countries, when they had heard that YHWH fought against the enemies of Israel.^20:30 So the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet^: because his Elohim gave him rest all around.^20:31 Then Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah^: he was 35 years old when he began to reign, and he reigned 25 years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Azubah the daughter of Shilhi.^20:32 And he walked in the way of Asa his dad, and departed not from it, doing what was right in the sight of YHWH.^20:33 But the high places were not taken away^: for as yet the people had not prepared their hearts to the Elohim of their forefathers.^20:34 Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, first and last, note, they are written in the Book of Jehu the son of Hanani, who is mentioned in the Book of the Kings of Israel.^20:35 And after this did Jehoshaphat king of Judah join himself with Ahaziah king of Israel, who did very wickedly^:20:36 And he joined himself with him to make ships to go to Tarshish^: and they made the ships in Eziongeber.^20:37 Then Eliezer the son of Dodavah of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat saying, because you have joined yourself with Ahaziah, YHWH has broken your works. And the ships were broken so that they were not able to go to Tarshish.

21:1 Now Jehoshaphat slept with his forefathers, and was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. And Jehoram his son reigned in his place.^21:2 And he had kinsmen the sons of Jehoshaphat, Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariah, Michael, and Shephatiah^: all these were the sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel.^21:3 And their dad gave them great gifts of silver, gold, and of precious things, with fenced cities in Judah^: but the kingdom gave he to Jehoram; because he was the firstborn.^21:4 Now when Jehoram was risen up to the kingdom of his dad, he strengthened himself, and killed all his brothers with the sword, and also of the princes of Israel.^21:5 Jehoram was 32 years old when he began to reign, and he reigned 8 years in Jerusalem.^21:6 And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, like as did the house of Ahab^: because he had the daughter of Ahab to wife^: and he did what was bad in the eyes of YHWH.^21:7 But YHWH would not destroy the house of David, because of the Covenant that he had cut out with David, and as he promised to give a light to him and to his sons for the ages.^21:8 In his days the Edomites revolted from under the rule of Judah, and made themselves a king.^21:9 Then Jehoram went out with his princes, and all his chariots with him^: and he rose up by night, and struck the Edomites that compassed him in, and the captains of the chariots.^21:10 So the Edomites revolted from under the hand of Judah to this day. The same time also did Libnah revolt from under his hand; because he had forsaken YHWH Elohim of his forefathers.^21:11 Moreover he made high places in the mountains of Judah, and caused the inhabitants of Jerusalem to commit cult prostitution, and compelled Judah also.^21:12 And there came a writing to him from Elijah the prophet saying, This is what YHWH Elohim of David your forefather declares, Because you have not walked in the ways of Jehoshaphat your father, nor in the ways of Asa king of Judah,^21:13 But have walked in the way of the kings of Israel, and have made Judah and its inhabitants of Jerusalem to go a whoring, like the prostitution of the house of Ahab, and also have killed your brothers of your dad's house, that were better than yourself^:21:14 Look, with a great plague will YHWH strike your people, and your children, and your wives, and all your goods^:21:15 And you will have great sickness by disease of your bowels, until your bowels fall out by reason of the sickness day by day.^21:16 Moreover YHWH stirred up against Jehoram the spirit of the Philistines, and of the Arabians, that were near the Ethiopians^:21:17 And they came up into Judah, and broke into it, and carried away all the substance that was found in the king's house, and his sons also, and his wives; so that there was never a son left him, except Jehoahaz, the youngest of his sons.^21:18 And after all this YHWH struck him in his bowels with an incurable disease.^21:19 And it came to pass, that in process of time, after the end of two years, his bowels fell out by reason of his sickness^: so he died of a malignant disease. And his people made no burning for him, like the burning of his ancestors.^21:20 He was 32 years old when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem 8 years, and departed without being desired. But they buried him in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.

22:1 And the inhabitants of Jerusalem made Ahaziah his youngest son king in his place^: because the band of men that came with the Arabians to the camp had killed all the eldest. So Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king of Judah reigned.^22:2 He was 42 years old when Ahaziah began to reign, and he reigned one year in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Athaliah the daughter of Omri.^22:3 He also walked in the ways of the house of Ahab^: because his mother was his counselor to do wickedly.^22:4 Therefore he did bad in the sight of YHWH like the house of Ahab^: because they were his counselors after the death of his dad to his destruction.^22:5 He walked also after their counsel, and went with Jehoram the son of Ahab king of Israel to war against Hazael king of Syria at Ramothgilead^: and the Syrians struck Joram.^22:6 And he returned to be healed in Jezreel because of the wounds that were given him at Ramah, when he fought with Hazael king of Syria. And Azariah the son of Jehoram king of Judah went down to see Jehoram the son of Ahab at Jezreel, because he was sick.^22:7 And the destruction of Ahaziah was of Elohim by coming to Joram^: because when he was come, he went out with Jehoram against Jehu the son of Nimshi, who YHWH had anointed to cut off the house of Ahab.^22:8 And it came to pass that when Jehu was executing judgment upon the house of Ahab, and found the princes of Judah, and the sons of the brothers of Ahaziah, that ministered to Ahaziah, he killed them.^22:9 And he sought Ahaziah^: and they caught him, (because he was hidden in Samaria,) and brought him to Jehu^: and when they had killed him, they buried him^: Because, said they, he is the son of Jehoshaphat, who sought YHWH with all his heart. And there is none to the house of Ahaziah to retain power for the kingdom.^22:10 But when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the royal offspring of the house of Judah.^22:11 But Jehoshabeath, the daughter of the king, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king's sons that were killed, and put him and his nurse in a bedchamber. So Jehoshabeath, the daughter of king Jehoram, the wife of Jehoiada the priest, (for she was the sister of Ahaziah,) hid him from Athaliah, so that she did not kill him.^22:12 And he was with them hidden in the House of Elohim for 6 years^: and Athaliah reigned over the land.

23:1 And in the 7th year Jehoiada strengthened himself, and took the captains of hundreds, Azariah the son of Jeroham, and Ishmael the son of Jehohanan, and Azariah the son of Obed, and Maaseiah the son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat the son of Zichri, into alliance with him.^23:2 And they went around in Judah, and gathered the Levites out of all the cities of Judah, and the chief of the fathers of Israel, and they came to Jerusalem.^23:3 And all the company made an alliance with the king in the House of Elohim. And he said to them, Behold, the king's son will reign, as YHWH has said of the sons of David.^23:4 This is the thing that you will do; A 3rd part of you entering on the sabbath, of the priests and of the Levites, will be porters of the doors;^23:5 And a 3rd part will be at the king's house; and a 3rd part at the gate of the foundation^: and all the people will be in the courts of the Temple of YHWH.^23:6 But let none come into the Temple of YHWH, except the priests, and they that minister of the Levites; they will go in, because they are Sacred^: but all the people will guard the watch of YHWH.^23:7 And the Levites will encircle the king all around, every man with his weapons in his hand; and whoever else comes into the house, he will be put to death^: but you be with the king when he comes in, and when he goes out.^23:8 So the Levites and all Judah did according to all things that Jehoiada the priest had commanded, and took every man his men that were to come in on the sabbath, with them that were to go out on the sabbath^: for Jehoiada the priest dismissed not the courses.^23:9 Moreover Jehoiada the priest delivered to the captains of hundreds spears, and bucklers, and shields, that had been king David's, that were in the House of Elohim.^23:10 And he set all the people, every man having his weapon in his hand, from the right side of the Temple to the left side of the Temple, along by the Altar and the Temple, by the king all around.^23:11 Then they brought out the king's son, and put on him the crown, and gave him the testimony, and made him king. And Jehoiada and his sons anointed him, and said, Elohim save the king.^23:12 Now when Athaliah heard the noise of the people running and praising the king, she came to the people into the House of YHWH^:23:13 And she looked, and behold, the king stood at his pillar at the entering in, and the princes and the trumpets by the king^: and all the people of the land rejoiced, and sounded with trumpets, also the singers with instruments of music, and such as taught to sing praise. Then Athaliah tore her clothes and said, Treason, Treason.^23:14 Then Jehoiada the priest brought out the captains of hundreds that were set over the host, and said to them, have her out of the ranges^: and whoever follows her, let him be killed with the sword. Because the priest said, kill her not in the Temple of YHWH.^23:15 So they laid hands on her; and when she was come to the entering of the Horse Gate by the king's house, they killed her there.^23:16 And Jehoiada made an alliance between him and between all the people, and between the king, that they should be YHWH's people.^23:17 Then all the people went to the house of Baal, and broke it down and broke his altars and his images in pieces, and killed Mattan the priest of Baal before the altars.^23:18 Also Jehoiada appointed the offices of the House of YHWH by the hand of the priests the Levites, who David had distributed in the Temple of YHWH, to offer the whole Burnt-Offerings of YHWH, as it is written in the Torah of Moses, with rejoicing and with singing, as it was ordained by David.^23:19 And he set the porters at the gates of the House of YHWH so that none that were unclean in anything should enter in.^23:20 And he took the captains of hundreds, and the nobles, and the governors of the people, and all the people of the land, and brought down the king from the Temple of YHWH. And they came through the upper gate into the king's house, and set the king on the throne of the kingdom.^23:21 And all the people of the land rejoiced^: and the city was quiet, after that they had killed Athaliah with the sword.

24:1 Joash was 7 years old when he began to reign, and he reigned 40 years in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Zibiah of Beersheba.^24:2 And Joash did what was right in the sight of YHWH all the days of Jehoiada the priest.^24:3 And Jehoiada took for him two wives; and he gendered sons and daughters.^24:4 And it came to pass after this, that Joash was minded to repair the Temple of YHWH.^24:5 And he gathered together the priests and the Levites, and said to them, go out to the cities of Judah and gather of all Israel money to repair the House of your Elohim from year to year, and see that you hurry in this matter. But the Levites hurried it not.^24:6 Then the king called for Jehoiada the chief and said to him, why have you not required of the Levites to bring in out of Judah and out of Jerusalem the collection, according to the commandment of Moses the slave of YHWH, and of the company of Israel, for the Tabernacle of Testimony?^24:7 Because the sons of Athaliah, that wicked woman, had broken up the House of Elohim; and also all the Sacred things of the Temple of YHWH did they bestow upon Baalim.^24:8 And at the king's commandment they made a chest, and set it outside at the gate of the Temple of YHWH.^24:9 And they made a proclamation through Judah and Jerusalem, to bring in to YHWH the collection that Moses the slave of Elohim laid upon Israel in the uninhabited land.^24:10 And all the princes and all the people rejoiced, and brought in, and cast into the chest, until they had finished.^24:11 And it came to pass, at the time one brings in the chest for the inspection of the king by the hand of the Levites, and at their seeing that the money is abundant, that a scribe of the king has come in, and an officer of the head-priest, and they empty the chest, and take it up and turn it back to its place. So they have done day by day, and gathered money in abundance.^24:12 And the king and Jehoiada gave it to such as did the work of the service of the House of YHWH, and hired masons and carpenters to repair the House of YHWH, and also such as were craftsmen in iron and bronze to restore to strength the House of YHWH.^24:13 So the workmen repaired, and the work was restored by them, and they set the House of Elohim in its state (measurements), and strengthened it.^24:14 And when they had finished it, they brought the rest of the money before the king and Jehoiada, where were fashioned vessels for the Temple of YHWH, even vessels to minister, and to offer, and spoons, and vessels of gold and silver. And they offered whole Burnt-Offerings in the Temple of YHWH continually all the days of Jehoiada.^24:15 But Jehoiada grew old, and was full of days when he died; 130 years old he was when he died.^24:16 And they buried him in the City of David among the kings, because he had done good in Israel, both toward Elohim, and toward his house.^24:17 Now after the death of Jehoiada came the princes of Judah, and paid homage to the king. Then the king listened to them.^24:18 And they left the Temple of YHWH Elohim of their forefathers, and served groves and idols^: and anger came upon Judah and Jerusalem for this their sin.^24:19 Still he sent prophets to them, to bring them back to YHWH; and they testified against them^: but they would not give ear.^24:20 And the Spirit of Elohim came upon Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest that stood above the people, and said to them, This is what Elohim declares, Why alienate yourselves from the commandments of YHWH so that you cannot prosper? Because you have forsaken YHWH, he has also forsaken you.^24:21 And they conspired against him, and stoned him with stones at the commandment of the king in the court of the Temple of YHWH.^24:22 So Joash the king remembered not the kindness that Jehoiada his dad had done to him, but killed his son. And when he died, he said, YHWH look upon it, and require it.^24:23 And it came to pass at the end of the year, that the army of Syria came up against him. And they came to Judah and Jerusalem, and destroyed all the princes of the people from among the people, and sent all the plunder of them to the king of Damascus.^24:24 Because the army of the Syrians came with a small company of men, and YHWH delivered a very great army into their hand, because they had forsaken YHWH Elohim of their forefathers. So they executed judgment against Joash.^24:25 And when they were departed from him, (for they left him in great diseases,) his own slaves conspired against him for the blood of the sons of Jehoiada the priest, and killed him on his bed and he died. And they buried him in the City of David, but they buried him not in the tombs of the kings.^24:26 And these are they that conspired against him; Zabad the son of Shimeath an Ammonitess, and Jehozabad the son of Shimrith a Moabitess.^24:27 Now concerning his sons, and the greatness of the burdens laid upon him, and the repairing of the House of Elohim, note, they are written in the story of the Book of Kings. And Amaziah his son reigned in his place.

25:1 Amaziah was 25 years old when he began to reign, and he reigned 29 years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jehoaddan of Jerusalem.^25:2 And he did what was right in the sight of YHWH, but not with a whole heart.^25:3 Now it came to pass, when the kingdom was established to him, that he killed his slaves that had killed the king his dad.^25:4 But he did not kill their children, but did as it is written in the Torah in the Book of Moses, where YHWH commanded saying, The fathers will not die for the children, neither will the children die for the fathers, but every man will die for his own sin.^25:5 Moreover Amaziah gathered Judah together, and made them captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, according to the houses of their forefathers, throughout all Judah and Benjamin. And he numbered them from 20 years old and above, and found them 300,000 choice men, able to go out to war, that could handle spear and shield.^25:6 He hired also 100,000 mighty men of valor out of Israel for 100 talents [3 3/4th tons] of silver.^25:7 But there came a man of Elohim to him saying, O king, let not the army of Israel go with you; because YHWH is not with Israel, all the children of Ephraim.^25:8 But if you will go, do it, be strong for the battle^: Elohim will make you fall before the enemy^: because Elohim has power to help, and to cast down.^25:9 But Amaziah replied to the man of Elohim, but what will we do for the 100 talents that I have given to the army of Israel? And the man of Elohim answered, YHWH is able to give you much more than this.^25:10 Then Amaziah separated them, the army that was come to him out of Ephraim, to go back home^: therefore their anger was greatly kindled against Judah, and they returned home in great anger.^25:11 And Amaziah strengthened himself, and led out his people, and went to the Valley of Salt, and struck of the children of Seir 10,000.^25:12 And 10,000 alive have the sons of Judah taken captive, and they brought them to the top of the rock, and cast them from the top of the rock, and all of them have been broken in pieces.^25:13 But the soldiers of the army that Amaziah sent back, that they should not go with him to battle, fell upon the cities of Judah, from Samaria even to Bethhoron, and struck 3000 of them, and took much plunder.^25:14 Now it came to pass, after that Amaziah had come from the slaughter of the Edomites, that he brought the elohim of the children of Seir, and set them up to be his elohim, and bowed down himself before them, and burned incense to them.^25:15 Therefore the anger of YHWH burned against Amaziah, and he sent to him a prophet that said to him, Why have you inquired after the elohim of the people that could not deliver their own people out of your hand? ^25:16 And it came to pass, as he talked with him, that the king replied to him, are you assigned of the king's counsel? desist; why should you be killed? Then the prophet desisted and said, I know that Elohim has determined to destroy you, because you have done this, and have not listened to my counsel.^25:17 Then Amaziah king of Judah took advice, and sent to Joash, the son of Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu, king of Israel saying, come, let us see one another in the face.^25:18 Then Joash king of Israel sent to Amaziah king of Judah saying, the thistle that was in Lebanon sent to the cedar that was in Lebanon saying, give your daughter to my son to wife. And there passed by a wild animal that was in Lebanon, and trampled down the thistle.^25:19 You say, lo, you have beaten the Edomites; and your heart lifts you up to boast^: stay now at home; why should you meddle to your own hurt, that you should fall, even you and Judah with you? ^25:20 But Amaziah would not hear; because it came of Elohim, that he might deliver them into the hand of their enemies, because they inquired after the elohim of Edom.^25:21 So Joash the king of Israel went up; and they saw one another in the face, both he and Amaziah king of Judah, at Bethshemesh, that belongs to Judah.^25:22 And Judah was put to the worse before Israel, and they fled every man to his tent.^25:23 And Joash the king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash, the son of Jehoahaz, at Bethshemesh, and brought him to Jerusalem, and broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim to the Corner Gate, 400 cubits [600 feet].^25:24 And he took all the gold and the silver, and all the vessels that were found in the Temple of Elohim with Obededom, and the treasures of the king's house, the hostages also, and returned to Samaria.^25:25 And Amaziah the son of Joash king of Judah lived after the death of Joash son of Jehoahaz king of Israel 15 years.^25:26 Now the rest of the acts of Amaziah, first and last, note, are they not written in the Book of the Kings of Judah and Israel? ^25:27 Now after the time that Amaziah did turn away from following YHWH they made a conspiracy against him in Jerusalem; and he fled to Lachish^: but they sent to Lachish after him, and killed him there.^25:28 And they brought him upon horses, and buried him with his forefathers in the city of Judah [City of David].

26:1 Then all the people of Judah took Uzziah, who was 16 years old, and made him king in the room of his dad Amaziah.^26:2 He built Eloth, and restored it to Judah, after that the king slept with his forefathers.^26:3 Uzziah was 16 years old when he began to reign, and he reigned 52 years in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Jecoliah of Jerusalem.^26:4 And he did what was right in the sight of YHWH, according to all that his dad Amaziah did.^26:5 And he inquired of Elohim in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of Elohim^: and as long as he inquired of YHWH, Elohim made him to prosper.^26:6 And he went out and warred against the Philistines, and broke down the wall of Gath, and the wall of Jabneh, and the wall of Ashdod, and built cities around Ashdod, and among the Philistines.^26:7 And Elohim helped him against the Philistines, and against the Arabians that lived in Gurbaal, and the Mehunims.^26:8 And the Ammonites gave gifts to Uzziah^: and his name spread abroad even to the entering in of Egypt; because he strengthened himself exceedingly.^26:9 Moreover Uzziah built towers in Jerusalem at the Corner Gate, and at the Valley Gate, and by the angle, and fortified them.^26:10 Also he built towers in the desert, and excavated many wells^: because he had much cattle, both in the low country, and in the plains^: farmers also, and vine dressers in the mountains, and in Carmel^: for he loved farming.^26:11 Moreover Uzziah had an army of fighting men, that went out to war by bands, according to the number of their account by the hand of Jeiel the scribe and Maaseiah the ruler, under the hand of Hananiah, one of the king's captains.^26:12 The whole number of the chief of the fathers of the mighty men of valor were 2,600.^26:13 And under their hand was an army, 307,500, that made war with mighty power, to help the king against the enemy.^26:14 And Uzziah prepared for them throughout all the army, shields, spears, helmets, javelins, bows, and slings to cast stones.^26:15 And he made in Jerusalem engines, invented by skillful men, to be on the towers and upon the bulwarks, to shoot arrows and great stones withal. And his name spread far abroad; because he was marvelously helped until he was strong.^26:16 But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction^: because he transgressed against YHWH Elohim, and went into the Temple of YHWH to burn incense upon the Altar of Incense.^26:17 And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him 80 priests of YHWH, that were valiant men^:26:18 And they withstood Uzziah the king, and said to him, it pertains not to you, Uzziah, to burn incense to YHWH, but to the priests the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn incense. Go out of the Sanctuary; because you have trespassed; neither will it be for your honor from YHWH Elohim.^26:19 Then Uzziah was angry, and had a censer in his hand to burn incense. And while he was angry with the priests, the leprosy even rose up in his forehead before the priests in the Temple of YHWH, from beside the Incense Altar.^26:20 And Azariah the chief priest, and all the priests, looked upon him, and behold, he was leprous in his forehead, and they thrust him out from there; yes, he himself hurried also to go out, because YHWH had struck him.^26:21 And Uzziah the king was a leper to the day of his death, and lived in a separate house, being a leper; because he was cut off from the Temple of YHWH^: and Jotham his son was over the king's house, judging the people of the land.^26:22 Now the rest of the acts of Uzziah, first and last, did Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, write.^26:23 So Uzziah slept with his forefathers, and they buried him with his forefathers in the field of the burial that belonged to the kings; because they said, he is a leper^: and Jotham his son reigned in his place.

27:1 Jotham was 25 years old when he began to reign, and he reigned 16 years in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Jerushah, the daughter of Zadok.^27:2 And he did what was right in the sight of YHWH, according to all that his father Uzziah did^: but he entered not into the Temple of YHWH. And the people continued in their corrupt practices.^27:3 He rebuilt the Upper Gate of the House of YHWH, and on the wall of Ophel he has built abundantly.^27:4 Moreover he built cities in the mountains of Judah, and in the forests he built fortresses and towers.^27:5 He fought also with the king of the Ammonites, and prevailed against them. And the children of Ammon gave him the same year 100 talents [3 3/4th tons] of silver, and 10,000 measures [62,000 bushels] of wheat, and 10,000 of barley. So much did the children of Ammon pay to him, both the 2nd year, and the 3rd.^27:6 So Jotham became mighty, because he prepared his ways before YHWH Elohim.^27:7 Now the rest of the acts of Jotham, and all his wars, and his ways, note, they are written in the Book of the Kings of Israel and Judah.^27:8 He was 25 years old when he began to reign, and reigned 16 years in Jerusalem.^27:9 And Jotham slept with his forefathers, and they buried him in the City of David^: and Ahaz his son reigned in his place.

28:1 Ahaz was 20 years old when he began to reign, and he reigned 16 years in Jerusalem^: but he did not what was right in the sight of YHWH, like David his ancestor^:28:2 Because he walked in the ways of the kings of Israel, and made also cast metal images for Baalim.^28:3 Moreover he burned incense in the valley of the son of Hinnom, and burned his children in the fire, after the abominations of the nations who YHWH had cast out before the children of Israel.^28:4 He sacrificed also and burned incense in the high places (cultic platforms), and on the hills, and under every green tree.^28:5 Therefore YHWH Elohim delivered him into the hand of the king of Syria; and they struck him, and carried away a great multitude of them captives, and brought them to Damascus. And he was also delivered into the hand of the king of Israel, who struck him with a great slaughter.^28:6 For Pekah the son of Remaliah killed in Judah 120,000 in one day that were all valiant men; because they had forsaken YHWH Elohim of their forefathers.^28:7 And Zichri, a mighty man of Ephraim, killed Maaseiah the king's son, and Azrikam the governor of the house, and Elkanah that was next to the king.^28:8 And the children of Israel carried away captive of their kinsmen 200,000, women, sons, and daughters, and took also away much plunder from them, and brought the booty to Samaria.^28:9 But a prophet of YHWH was there, whose name was Oded^: and he went out before the army that came to Samaria, and said to them, behold, because YHWH Elohim of your forefathers was angry with Judah, he has delivered them into your hand, and you have killed them in a rage that reaches up to the cosmos.^28:10 And now you purpose to keep under the children of Judah and Jerusalem for male and female slaves to you^: but are there not with you, even with you, sins against YHWH Elohim?^28:11 Now hear me therefore, and return the captives back that you have taken captive of your kinsmen^: for the fierce anger of YHWH is upon you.^28:12 Then certain of the heads of the children of Ephraim, Azariah the son of Johanan, Berechiah the son of Meshillemoth, and Jehizkiah the son of Shallum, and Amasa the son of Hadlai, stood up against them that came from the war,^28:13 and say to them, you do not bring in the captives here, because, to guilt against YHWH on us, you are saying to add to our sin and to our guilt? for abundant is the guilt we have, and the fierceness of anger on Israel.^28:14 So the armed men left the captives and the booty before the princes and all the company.^28:15 And the men who have been expressed by name rose and took hold on the captives, and all their naked ones they have clothed from the booty, yes, they clothed them, and shoe them, and caused them to eat and drink, and anointed them, and lead them on donkeys, even every feeble one, and brought them to Jericho, the city of palms, near their kinsmen, and turned back to Samaria.^28:16 At that time did king Ahaz send to the kings of Assyria to help him.^28:17 Because again the Edomites had come and struck Judah, and carried away captives.^28:18 The Philistines also had invaded the cities of the low country, and of the south of Judah, and had captured Bethshemesh, Ajalon, Gederoth, and Shocho with its villages, and Timnah with its villages, Gimzo also and its villages^: and they lived there.^28:19 Because YHWH brought Judah low because of Ahaz king of Israel; for he made Judah naked and transgressed greatly against YHWH.^28:20 And Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria came to him and distressed him, but strengthened him not.^28:21 Because Ahaz took away a portion out of the House of YHWH, and out of the house of the king, and of the princes, and gave it to the king of Assyria^: but he did not help him.^28:22 And in the time of his distress did he trespass still more against YHWH^: this king Ahaz.^28:23 Because he sacrificed to the elohim of Damascus, which struck him^: and he said, because the elohim of the kings of Syria help them, therefore I will sacrifice to them so that they may help me. But they were the ruin of him, and of all Israel.^28:24 Then Ahaz gathered together the vessels of the Temple of Elohim, and cut in pieces the vessels of the Temple of Elohim, and shut up the doors of the Temple of YHWH, and he made himself altars in every corner of Jerusalem.^28:25 And in every several city of Judah he made high places (cultic platforms) to burn incense to other elohim, and provoked to anger YHWH Elohim of his forefathers.^28:26 Now the rest of his acts and of all his ways, first and last, note, they are written in the Book of the Kings of Judah and Israel.^28:27 And Ahaz slept with his forefathers, and they buried him in the city, even in Jerusalem^: but they brought him not into the tombs of the kings of Israel^: and Hezekiah his son reigned in his place.

29:1 Hezekiah began to reign when he was 25 years old, and he reigned 29 years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Abijah, the daughter of Zechariah.^29:2 And he did what was right in the sight of YHWH, according to all that David his ancestor had done.^29:3 He in the 1st year of his reign, on the 1st month, opened the doors of the Temple of YHWH, and repaired them.^29:4 And he brought in the priests and the Levites, and gathered them together into the east street,^29:5 And said to them, hear me you Levites, consecrate now yourselves and consecrate the Temple of YHWH Elohim of your forefathers, and carry out the impure thing out of the Holy Place.^29:6 Because our fathers have trespassed, and done what was bad in the eyes of YHWH Elohim, and have forsaken him and have turned away their faces from the Dwelling Place of YHWH, and turned their backs.^29:7 Also they have shut up the doors of the porch, and put out the lamps, and have not burned incense nor offered burnt offerings in the Holy [Place] unto the Elohim of Israel.^29:8 Therefore the anger of YHWH was upon Judah and Jerusalem, and he has delivered them to trouble, horror and hissing, as you see with your eyes.^29:9 For lo, our fathers have fallen by the sword, and our sons and our daughters and our wives are in captivity for this.^29:10 Now it is in my heart to make a Covenant with YHWH Elohim of Israel so that his fierce anger may turn away from us.^29:11 My sons, be not now negligent^: because YHWH has chosen you to stand before him, to serve him, and that you should minister to him and burn incense.^29:12 Then the Levites arose, Mahath the son of Amasai, and Joel the son of Azariah, of the sons of the Kohathites^: and of the sons of Merari, Kish the son of Abdi, and Azariah the son of Jehalelel^: and of the Gershonites; Joah the son of Zimmah, and Eden the son of Joah^:29:13 And of the sons of Elizaphan; Shimri, and Jeiel^: and of the sons of Asaph; Zechariah, and Mattaniah^:29:14 And of the sons of Heman; Jehiel, and Shimei^: and of the sons of Jeduthun; Shemaiah, and Uzziel.^29:15 And they gathered their kinsmen, and consecrated themselves, and came according to the commandment of the king, by the Words of YHWH, to cleanse the Temple of YHWH.^29:16 And the priests went into the inner part of the Temple of YHWH, to cleanse it, and brought out all the uncleanness that they found in the Temple of YHWH into the court of the House of YHWH. And the Levites took it, to carry it out abroad into the Wadi of Kidron.^29:17 Now they began on the 1st day of the 1st month to consecrate, and on the 8th day of the month they came to the porch of YHWH. So they consecrated the Temple of YHWH in 8 days; and on the 16th day of the 1st month they made an end.^29:18 Then they went in to Hezekiah the king and said, we have cleansed all the Temple of YHWH, and the Altar of whole Burnt-Offering, with all its vessels, and the shewbread table, with all its vessels.^29:19 Moreover all the vessels that king Ahaz in his reign did cast away in his transgression, have we fixed and consecrated, and behold, they are before the Altar of YHWH.^29:20 Then Hezekiah the king rose early, and gathered the rulers of the city, and went up to the Temple of YHWH.^29:21 And they brought 7 young bulls, 7 rams, 7 lambs, and 7 he-goats, for a Sin-Offering for the kingdom, and for the Sanctuary, and for Judah. And he commanded the priests the sons of Aaron to offer them on the Altar of YHWH.^29:22 So they killed the young bulls, and the priests received the blood, and sprinkled it on the Altar^: likewise, when they had killed the rams, they sprinkled the blood upon the Altar^: they killed also the lambs, and they sprinkled the blood upon the Altar.^29:23 And they brought out the he-goats for the Sin-Offering before the king and the company; and they laid their hands on them^:29:24 And the priests killed them, and made a Sin-Offering with their blood upon the Altar, to make a covering for all Israel^: because the king commanded that the whole Burnt-Offering and the Sin-Offering should be made for all Israel.^29:25 And he set the Levites in the Temple of YHWH with cymbals, with bagpipes (skin- bags), and with lyres, according to the commandment of David, and of Gad the king's seer, and Nathan the prophet^: for so was the commandment of YHWH by his prophets.^29:26 And the Levites stood with the instruments of David, and the priests with the trumpets.^29:27 And Hezekiah commanded to offer the whole Burnt-Offering upon the Altar. And when the whole Burnt- Offering began, the song of YHWH began also with the trumpets, and with the instruments assigned by David king of Israel.^29:28 And all the company worshipped, and the singers sang, and the trumpeters sounded^: and all this continued until the whole Burnt-Offering was consumed.^29:29 And when they had made an end of offering, the king and all that were present with him bowed themselves, and worshipped.^29:30 Moreover Hezekiah the king and the princes commanded the Levites to sing praise to YHWH with the words of David, and of Asaph the seer. And they sang praises with gladness, and they bowed their heads and worshipped.^29:31 Then Hezekiah answered and said, now you have consecrated yourselves to YHWH, come near and bring sacrifices and Thank-Offerings into the House of YHWH. And the company brought in sacrifices and Thank-Offerings; and as many as were of a free heart whole Burnt-Offerings.^29:32 And the number of the whole Burnt-Offerings that the company brought, was 70 young bulls, 100 rams, and 200 lambs^: all these were for a whole Burnt- Offering to YHWH.^29:33 And the consecrated things were 600 oxen and 3000 sheep.^29:34 But the priests were too few, so that they could not flay all the Burnt-Offerings^: therefore their brethren the Levites did help them until the work was ended, and until the other priests had consecrated themselves. Because the Levites were more upright in heart to consecrate themselves than the priests.^29:35 And also the whole Burnt-Offerings were in abundance, with the fat of the Peace-Offerings, and the Drink- Offerings for every Burnt-Offering. So the service of the Temple of YHWH was set in order.^29:36 And rejoice did Hezekiah and all the people, because of Elohim giving preparation to the people, for the thing had been suddenly.

30:1 And Hezekiah sent to all Israel and Judah, and wrote letters also to Ephraim and Manasseh so that they should come to the Temple of YHWH at Jerusalem, to observe the Passover to YHWH Elohim of Israel.^30:2 Because the king had taken counsel, and his princes, and all the company in Jerusalem, to observe the Passover in the 2nd month.^30:3 Because they could not observe it at that time, because the priests had not consecrated themselves sufficiently, neither had the people gathered themselves together to Jerusalem.^30:4 And the thing pleased the king and all the company.^30:5 So they established a decree to make proclamation throughout all Israel, from Beersheba even to Dan, that they should come to observe the Passover to YHWH Elohim of Israel at Jerusalem^: for not for a long time had they done as it is written.^30:6 So the posts went with the letters from the king and his princes throughout all Israel and Judah, and according to the commandment of the king saying, you children of Israel, turn back to YHWH Elohim of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, and he will return to the remnant of you, that are escaped out of the hand of the kings of Assyria.^30:7 And be not like your forefathers, and like your kinsmen that trespassed against YHWH Elohim of their forefathers, who therefore gave them up to desolation, as you see.^30:8 Now be not stiff-necked, as your forefathers were, but yield yourselves to YHWH, and enter into his Sanctuary that he has consecrated for the ages^: and serve YHWH Elohim so that the fierceness of his anger may turn away from you.^30:9 Because if you turn back to YHWH, your kinsmen and your children will find compassion before them that lead them captive, so that they will return to this land. Because YHWH Elohim is gracious and compassionate, and will not turn away his face from you, if you return to him.^30:10 So the posts passed from city to city through the country of Ephraim and Manasseh even to Zebulun^: but they laughed them to scorn and mocked them.^30:11 Nevertheless individuals of Asher and Manasseh and of Zebulun humbled themselves, and came to Jerusalem.^30:12 Also in Judah the hand of Elohim was to give them one heart to institute the commandment of the king and of the princes, by the Word of YHWH.^30:13 And there assembled at Jerusalem many people to observe the Festival of Unleavened Bread in the 2nd month, a very great company.^30:14 And they arose and took away the altars that were in Jerusalem and all the altars for incense they removed, and cast them into the Wadi of Kidron.^30:15 Then they killed the Passover on the 14th day of the 2nd month^: and the priests and the Levites were ashamed and consecrated themselves, and brought in the whole Burnt-Offerings into the Temple of YHWH.^30:16 And they stood in their place after their custom, according to the Torah of Moses the man of Elohim^: the priests sprinkled the blood, which they received of the hand of the Levites.^30:17 Because there were many in the company that were not consecrated^: therefore the Levites had the charge of the killing of the Passovers for everyone that was not clean, to consecrate them to YHWH.^30:18 Because a multitude of the people, even many of Ephraim, Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulun, had not cleansed themselves, still they did eat the Passover otherwise than it was written. But Hezekiah prayed for them saying, the good YHWH pardon everyone^30:19 that prepares his heart to inquire of Elohim, YHWH Elohim of his forefathers, though he is not cleansed according to the purification of the Sanctuary.^30:20 And YHWH listened to Hezekiah, and healed the people.^30:21 And the children of Israel that were present at Jerusalem observed the Festival of Unleavened Bread 7 days with great gladness^: and the Levites and the priests praised YHWH day by day, singing with loud instruments to YHWH.^30:22 Then Hezekiah spoke comfortably to all the Levites that taught the good knowledge of YHWH^: and they did eat throughout the Festival 7 days, offering Peace-Offerings, and making confession to YHWH Elohim of their forefathers.^30:23 And the whole assembly took counsel to observe another 7 days^: and they observed another 7 days with gladness.^30:24 Because Hezekiah king of Judah did give to the company 1000 young bulls and 7000 sheep; and the princes gave to the company 1000 young bulls and 10,000 sheep^: and a great number of priests consecrated themselves.^30:25 And all the company of Judah, with the priests and the Levites, and all the company that came out of Israel, and the sojourners that came out of the land of Israel, and that lived in Judah rejoiced.^30:26 So there was great joy in Jerusalem^: because since the time of Solomon the son of David king of Israel there was not the like in Jerusalem.^30:27 Then the priests the Levites arose and blessed the people^: and their voice was heard, and their prayer came up to his Holy Dwelling Place, even into the cosmos.

31:1 Now when all this was finished, all Israel that were present went out to the cities of Judah, and broke the images in pieces, and cut down the groves, and threw down the high places (cultic platforms). And the altars out of all Judah and Benjamin, in Ephraim also and Manasseh, until they had utterly destroyed them all. Then all the children of Israel returned, every man to his possession, into their own cities.^31:2 Then Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the Levites after their courses, every man according to his service, the priests and Levites for whole Burnt-Offerings and for Peace-Offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the Camp of YHWH.^31:3 He appointed also the king's portion of his property for the whole Burnt-Offerings, for the morning and evening whole Burnt-Offerings, and the Burnt-Offerings for the sabbaths, and for the new moons, and for the set Festivals, as it is written in the Torah of YHWH.^31:4 Moreover he commanded the people that lived in Jerusalem to give the portion of the priests and the Levites so that they might be encouraged in the Torah of YHWH.^31:5 And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the first-fruits of corn, wine, oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things brought they in abundantly.^31:6 And concerning the children of Israel and Judah, that lived in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of Sacred things that were consecrated to YHWH Elohim, and laid them in piles.^31:7 In the 3rd month they began to pile up the heaps, and finished them in the 7th month.^31:8 And when Hezekiah and the princes came and saw the piles, they blessed YHWH, and his people Israel.^31:9 Then Hezekiah questioned with the priests and the Levites concerning the piles.^31:10 And Azariah the chief priest of the house of Zadok answered him and said, Since the people began to bring the offerings into the Temple of YHWH, we have had enough to eat, and have plenty left over^: because YHWH has blessed his people; and what is left is this great store.^31:11 Then Hezekiah commanded to prepare chambers in the House of YHWH; and they prepared them,^31:12 And brought in the offerings and the tithes and the dedicated things faithfully^: over which Cononiah the Levite was ruler, and Shimei his brother was the next.^31:13 And Jehiel, Azaziah, Nahath, Asahel, Jerimoth, Jozabad, Eliel, Ismachiah, Mahath, and Benaiah, were overseers under the hand of Cononiah and Shimei his brother, at the commandment of Hezekiah the king, and Azariah the ruler of the Temple of Elohim.^31:14 And Kore the son of Imnah the Levite, the porter toward the east, was over the Freewill- Offerings of Elohim, to distribute the oblations of YHWH, and the Most Holy things.^31:15 And next to him were Eden, Miniamin, Jeshua, Shemaiah, Amariah, and Shecaniah, in the cities of the priests, in their set office, to give to their kinsmen by courses, as well to the great as to the small^:31:16 Beside their genealogy of males, from three years old and upward, even to everyone that enters into the Temple of YHWH, his daily portion for their service in their charges according to their courses;^31:17 Both to the genealogy of the priests by the house of their fathers, and the Levites from 20 years old and upward, in their charges by their courses;^31:18 And to the genealogy of all their little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, through all the company^: because in their set office they consecrated themselves in Holiness^:31:19 Also of the sons of Aaron the priests, that were in the fields of the suburbs of their cities, in every several city, the men that were expressed by name, to give portions to all the males among the priests, and to all that were reckoned by genealogies among the Levites.^31:20 And so did Hezekiah throughout all Judah, and accomplished what was good and right and Truth before YHWH Elohim.^31:21 And in every work that he began in the service of the Temple of Elohim, and in the Torah, and in the commandments, to inquire of Elohim, he did it with all his heart and prospered.

32:1 After these things, and its establishment, Sennacherib king of Assyria came, and entered into Judah and camped against the fenced cities, and thought to win them for himself.^32:2 And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib had come, and that he was purposed to fight against Jerusalem,^32:3 He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains that were outside the city^: and they did help him.^32:4 So there was gathered many people together, who stopped all the fountains, and the wadi that ran through the middle of the land saying, why should the kings of Assyria come, and find much water?^32:5 Also he strengthened himself, and built up all the wall that was broken, and raised it up to the towers, and another wall outside, and repaired Millo in the City of David, and made darts and shields in abundance.^32:6 And he set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the street of the gate of the city, and spoke comfortably to them saying,^32:7 be strong and courageous, be not afraid or dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for the entire multitude that is with him^: because there is more with us than with him^:32:8 With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is YHWH our Elohim to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves on the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.^32:9 After this did Sennacherib king of Assyria send his slaves to Jerusalem, (but he himself laid siege against Lachish, and all his power with him,) to Hezekiah king of Judah, and to all Judah that were at Jerusalem saying,^32:10 so declares Sennacherib king of Assyria, why do you trust, that you abide in the siege in Jerusalem?^32:11 Does not Hezekiah persuade you to give over yourselves to die by famine and by thirst saying, YHWH our Elohim will deliver us out of the hand of the king of Assyria?^32:12 Has not