David said unto him I know that thou wilt further me in what thou mayst David desired Jonathan to sound his Father how he was affected towards him and refuse me in nothing Now to morrow is the first day of the month in which I was accustomed to dine at the Kings Table if thou thinkest good I will depart out of the City into the field where I will lie hid And if he ask for me thou shalt say I am gone into the Countrey of Bethlehem where my Tribe solemnizeth a feast and thou shalt certifie him also that thou hast given me leave And if he I say God speed him which is an ordinary wish that friends use to such as go a journey know that he hath no hidden rancour nor secret malice conceived against me but if he answer otherwise it shall be an assured testimony that he plotteth some mischief against me and this shalt thou ascertain me of as both becometh my present calamity and our mutual friendship which by vowed oath thou being my Lord hast plighted to me who am thy Servant And if thou think me unworthy of this favour and injurious towards thy Father without expecting the sentence of his justice kill me now at this present with thine own Sword These last words so pierced Jonathans heart that he promised him to accomplish his request and certifie him if he any wayes could perceive that his Father was ill affected towards him and to the intent he might the better be believed K he caused him to walk forth with him into the open air v. 16 17 8 19. and there sware to him that he would not omit any thing that might tend to his preservation For said he that God that seeth and governeth all things in this universe Jonathan confirmeth his friendship towards David with an oath and who before I speak knoweth my mind he I say shall bear witness of that accord which shall be between thee and me that I will not cease to sound my Father till I know his intention concerning thee and as soon as I understand the same I will not conceal it from thee but give thee notice thereof be it good or evil The same God knoweth how incessantly I beseech him to be assistant to thee as also he is at this present and that he never abandon thee but make thee Lord over thine Enemies yea though it were my Father or my self Only remember me in this point that after my death If I chance to die before thee L thou take care of my children and be as favorable towards them as I am affectionate to thee at this present v. 20. ad 24. After he had sworn this oath Jonathan giveth David certain signs whereby he should know whether his Father were displeased with him he dismissed David willing him to conceal himself in a certain place of the Plain where people ordinarily exercised themselves For that as soon as he understood his Fathers mind he would return thither with his Page and if saith he having shot three shafts at the mark I command my Page to fetch them back again to me know that thou art to expect no evil from my Father but if I do not think thou that my Father is incensed and ill affected towards thee yet howsoever it be I will do my best that nothing shall befall thee otherwise than we expect and wish Be thou therefore mindful of these things when thou shalt obtain thy happy dayes and be favorable to my children David being confirmed M by Jonathans promises retired to the apointed place The next day after which was the solemnity of the new-Moon after the King had purified himself according to the custom he sate down to take his repast and as his Son Jonathan was set on his right side and Abner the General of his Army on the left Saul perceived Davids place void and spake not a word supposing that he was absent from that company by reason he was not purified since he had the company of his Wife v. 25. ad 30. but seeing that on the second day of the new-Moon he was absent likewise Saul questioneth about Davids absence he asked his Son Jonathan why David was not present at the feast those two days He answered him that he was gone into his countrey Jonathan by his answer essayeth to know his Fathers mind according as it had been concluded between them where his own tribe celebrated a feast and that he had given him leave to assist at the same Further said he he invited N me to the feast and if it stand with your pleasure I will go thither for you know how entirely I love the man At this time Jonathan knew the displeasure his Father had conceived against David v. 30. and perceived most apparently how heinously he was affected Saul discovereth his heinous hate against David for Saul could not conceal his choler but began to rail upon his Son calling him Rebel and Enemy and companion and confederate with David and telling him that he shewed reverence neither to him nor to his Mother since he was so minded and that he could not believe v. 28 29. that as long as David lived their Royall estate could be safe he commanded him therefore to bring him before him Jonathan excusing David to his Father is almost slain with a javelin by him to the end that he might do justice upon him Jonathan replied What evil hath David committed for which he should be punished Hereupon Saul not only expressed his choler in words and reproaches O but took a javelin to kill his Son and had certainly slain him had he not been restrained by his friends Thus Jonathan clearly discovered the â—â—â—red of Saul A to David and how ardently he sought his ruine since his friendship to him had like to to have cost him his own life Then did Jonathan withdraw himself from the banquet without eating seeing with how little profit he had pleaded and seeing that David was adjudged to die he passed all the night without sleep and about day-break he departed out of the City to the appointed field making shew that he walked out to take his exercise v. 33 34. but indeed it was to discover to his friend the intent which his Father had Jonathan flyeth from the banquet according as it was covenanted between them After Jonathan had done that which he promised and sent back his Page into the City he came to David both to see and speak with him in private v. 35 36. David as soon as he saw him cast himself at his feet Jonathan and David meet in the field calling him the preserver of his life But Jonathan lifted him up from the earth B and both of them embracing one another and intermixing their mutual kisses for a long time Hedio Ruffinus chap. 13. lamented their misfortune with tears and this
Women and Children beating their Breasts and lamenting for the King and his sons and tasting neither meat nor drink Ver. 11 12 13. This was the end of Saul according as Samuel had foretold him because he disobeyed God in his War against the Amalekites The Citizens of Jabes rescue the bodies of Saul and his sons and both bury and lament them and because he had slain Abimelech and all the Sacerdotal Race and destroyed the City of the Priests He Reigned during the life of Samuel the space of 18 years and 22 years after his death K L M N O A The Seventh Book of the Antiquities of the JEWS Written by FLAVIVS JOSEPHVS The Contents of the Chapters of the Seventh Book 1. David is created King of one Tribe in Hebron over the rest Saul's Son obtaineth the Sovereignty 2. Ishboseth is slain by the treachery of his Servants and the whole Kingdom cometh unto B David 3. David having surprized the City and Citadel of Jerusalem driveth the Canaanites from thence and causeth the Jews to inhabit it 4. David assailed by the Philistines obtaineth a famous victory against them near unto Jerusalem 5. David overcometh the neighbouring Nations and imposeth tribute on them 6. They of Damascus are overcome by David 7. David overcomes the Mesopotamians 8. How through the intestine Wars of his family David was driven out of his Kingdom by his Son C 9. Absolon marching out with his Army against his Father is overthrown 10. The happy estate of David restored again unto his Kingdom 11. David in his life-time anointeth his Son Solomon King 12. The death of David and what he left his Son towards the building of the Temple CHAP. I. David is created King of one Tribe in Hebron over the rest Saul's Son obtaineth the Sovereignty D THis Battel was fought on the same day that David returned Conqueror to Siceleg after he had subdued the Amalekites But about three days after his return he that slew Saul and had escaped from the Battel having his garment rent and ashes upon his head came and cast himself prostrate before David and being asked from whence he came he answered from the Battel of the Israelites and certified David of the unhappy event 2 Sam. 1. v. 1 ad 12. telling him that many thousands of the Hebrews were slain and that Saul himself and his Sons were fallen in the conflict He likewise related how he himself retreated amongst the Hebrews An Amalechite certifieth David of Sauls death and in testimony thereof presenteth his bracelets and Crown when the King fled confessing that he had slain him that he might not fall alive into the hands of his enemy For said he Saul E having cast himself upon the point of his sword was so weak by reason of the agony of his wounds that he could not dispatch himself Thereupon he produced the bracelets and the Royal Crown which he took from him David perceiving no cause whereby he should doubt of his death whereof he had most evident and infallible testimonies rent his garments v. 12 and spent the day in weeping and lamenting with his companions but he was the more grieved for the loss of his dear friend Jonathan David lamenteth Saul and Jonathans death whom he acknowledged to be the preserver of his life And so affectionate shewed he himself towards Saul that although he had oftentimes been in danger to have been slain by him yet was he much troubled at his death v. 13 14 15. and not only so David commandeth the Amalâ—chite to be slain that killed Saul but he likewise put to death him that slew him telling him that he himself had accused himself for slaying the King and shown himself F by that parricide to be a true Amalekite He composed likewise Lamentations and Epitaphs in the praise of Saul and Jonathan which are yet extant After that he had thus honoured the King and performed his Lamentations and Obsequies he asked counsel of God by the Prophet 2 Sâ—m 2. 1 ad 7. What City of the Tribe of Juda he would give him to inhabit in David by Gods commandment cometh and dwelleth in Hebron and is declared King of the Tribe of Juda. who answered him That he would give him Hebron For which cause he forsook Siceleg and came and dwelt in Hebron and brought thither his Wives and his Army All the people of the Tribe resorted thither unto him and proclaimed him King where understanding how the Jabesins had buried Saul and his Sons he sent Ambassadors unto them both to praise and approve their actions assuring them that he allowed their act and would recompense that kindness which they had shewed to the dead giving them likewise G to understand David praiseth the Jebafines for burying Saul and his Sons that the Tribe of Juda had chosen him for their King But Abner the Son of Ner General of Sauls Army a man of great courage and a noble disposition understanding that Saul and Jonathan and his two other Brothers were dead came into the Camp The year of the World 2891. before Christ's Nativity 1873. and bringing with him the only Son of Saul that was left whose name was H Isboseth he passed to the other side of Jordan and proclaimed him King He appointed likewise for his Royal seat and place of residence a certain Countrey called in Hebrew Machare that is to say the Camp From thence he went with a select band of soldiers with a resolution to encounter those of the Tribe of Juda because they had chosen David for their Kings Against him marched out Joab the Son of Suri and of Sarvia Davids Sister General of his Army to encounter him accompanied with his Brothers Abisai and Azael v. 8 ad 12. and all Davids soldiers and arriving near a Fountain in Gabaa he drew up his Army in that place Abner the Son of Ner crowned Jeshboseth Sauls Son Abner proposing that before they joyned Battel they should try some of the soldiers of each party it was agreed between them that twelve of either side should be chosen out to decide the quarell Abner leadeth out his Army against the Tribe of Juda. These men marched out into a I certain place betwixt both Armyes and having darted their Javelins the one against the other came at last to their Swords and one taking his enemy by the hair they all of them slew one another v. 13. upon the place Hereupon the Armyes met and after a cruel Battel Abner with his followers were discomfited Joab with all Davids Army issueth out to meet him and flyng in great haste were pursued by Joab who incouraged his soldiers to follow them close without suffering any of them to escape But amongst the rest Joabs Brothers were hot upon the Chase and the youngest of them called Azael v. 15. gave special testimony of his
the truth for he of whom he speakth is that Adad that made War I in Samaria during the Reign of Achab King of Israel of whom we will speak hereafter But when David had led forth his Army against Damascus Jerusalem spoiled by Syssac King of Egypt and against the rest of the Countrey of Syria he reduced them all under his obedience placing garrisons in their Countrey and imposing tribute upon them He dedicated also to God in the City of Jerusalem the Golden quivers and Arms of Adads guard which afterward Syssac King of Egypt took when he vauquished Roboham his Nephew and carried away great riches out of the temple of Jerusalem as it shall be declared hereafter when we come to treat of that matter This King of the Hebrews being inspired by God who made him prosperous in all his warrs encamped before the chiefest cities of Adrezar that is to say Betha and Mazcon which he besieged took and spoiled where there was found great store of Gold K and Silver and of Brass 3 King 14. which was more precious then Gold whereof Solomon made that great vessel called the Sea The prey that was made in the War and other fair lavers as such time as he adorned and furnished the Temple of God When Thoy King of Amoth understood all which had hapned to Adarezer 2 Sam 8 6. c. and how his power and forces were destroyed he grew afraid of his own estate The King of the Amathens requireth a League at Davids hands and resolved to enter into a league and confederacy with David before he should come out against him and to that intent he sent his Son Adoram unto him to congratulate his success against Adarezer his Enemy and to contract an amity with him He sent him presents also namely vessels of antique worke of Gold of Silver and of Brass whereupon David made a league with him and received the presents that were sent unto him and afterwards honourably dismissed his Son both for the one L and the other and consecrated that to God which he had presented him together with the Gold and Silver which he had taken from the Cities and Nations that were subiect unto him For God did not only so far favour him as to make him victorious and happy in his own Warrs David compelleth the Idumeans to pay tribute by the Pole but having also sent Abisai Joabs Brother the Lieutenant of his Army against the Idumeans he likewise granted him victory for Abisai slew in the battel about eighteen thousand of them and filled all Idumea with garrisons imposing a tribute throughout the Countrey by the Pole The distribution of Offices This King loved justice of his own nature and the judgment which he gave was always most equitable He had for his Lieutenant General of his Armies Joab 2 King 9. and appointed Josaphat the Son of Achilles chief over the Registers After Abiather he established Sadock of the house of Phinees for M High Priest who was his friend Sisa was his Secretary Banaia the Son of Ioiada was Captain over his guard and all the Elders were ordinarily about him to guard and attend him He remembring himself also of the covenants and oaths that past 'twixt him and Jonathan the Son of Saul and of their amity and affection for amongst his other excellent qualities he was alwayes most eminent for his gratitude He caused inquiry to be made if any one of the house and family of Jonathan were left alive to the intent he might return the friendship he had received from Jonathan Whereupon a certain man named Ziba was brought unto him who was enfranchised by Saul that might inform him what one of his Race was alive C. 9. v. 1 c. who asked him if he knew any N of Jonathans Sons then living David maketh an enquiry if any of Jonathans kindred were left alive to whom he might make some return of the kindness which he had formerly received from their Father Who answered him that he had one Son remaining whose name was Mephibosheth who was lame of his legges for when the news came that both his Father and Grandfather were slain his Nurse hastily snatching up the child let him fall from her shoulders and so hurt him When he heard where he was brought up he sent unto the City of Labath to Machir with whom Mephibosheth was kept v. 7 8. and commanded him to be brought unto him Now when he came to Davids presence David giveth Mephibosheth his father Joâ—athans house and Sauls inheritance he cast himself on his face before him but the King exhorted him to be of good courage and to hope hereafter for better fortune and gave him his Fathers house with all the possessions that were purchased by Saul his grandfather appointing him to eat with him daily at his own table The young man did him reverence thanking him O for the Royal offers he had made him At that time David called for Siba and told him how he had given Mephibosheth his Fathers house and all Sauls purchases commanding A him to manure his possessions The year of the World 2910 before Christ's Nativity 1014. and to have a care of all things and to return the revenue to Jerusalem because Mephibosheth was every day to sit at his table charging both him and his fifteen Sons and twenty Servants to do him service After the King had thus disposed of him Siba did him reverence and after he had promised to perform whatsoever he had given him in charge v. 9. 10 11. he departed and Jonathans Son remained in Jerusalem David committeth the disposing of Mephibosheths Lands to Siba and commandeth him to make the return of his revenues in Jerusalem where he lived at the Kings table and was entertained and tended as carefully as if he had been his own Son he had a Son also called Mica These were the honours that those children which survived after Jonathan and Sauls death received at Davids hands About the same day died Nahas King of the Ammonites who during his life-time was Davids friend and his Son succeeded him in his Kingdom to whom David sent B Ambassadors to comfort him exhorting him to bear his Fathers death with patience assuring him that he would express no less love towards him than he did unto his Father Hedio Ruffinus cap. 6. But the Governours of the Ammonites entertained this Embassage very contumeliously and not according as David had intended it and murmured against their King telling him that they were but spies sent by David to inquire into their forces 2 Sam. 10. v. 1 2 3 4. and discover the strength of their Countrey David sendeth Ambassadours to comfort the Son of the King of the Ammonites who are bâ—sely abused under a pretext of kindness advising him to stand upon his guard and not to give ear to
their separation which was no less grievous unto them v. 41 42 43. than death it self Finally since there was no remedy exhorting one another to have in perpetual remembrance their faith and friendship they departed the one from the other C. 21. v. 1 2 ad 6. David flying from the persecution of Saul David cometh to Naban or Nob to Abimelech the High Priest retired to the City of Nob to Abimelech the Priest who wondred to see him come alone to him without either friend or Servant and desired to know the cause why he thus wandred without any attendance David told him that the King had sent him about some secret order which might not be communicated to him although he were desirous to know it and as touching my Servants C said he I have commanded them to attend me at a place appointed He further desired him v. 7 8 9 10. that he would give him such things as were necessary for his journey and some Arms David receiving Goliaths sword flieth to Geth to Achis King of the Philistines either Sword or Javelin Now in this place was present one of Sauls Servants called Doeg a Syrian by Nation and the Master of the Kings Mules The Priest answered him that he had no Arms by him except Goliaths Sword which he himself had hanged in the Tabernacle and dedicated to God at such time as he slew the Philistine David having gotten it fled out of the Countrey of the Hebrews and went to Gath a Countrey of the Philistines where Achis was King There being known by the Kings Servants he was discovered to be that David v. 11 12 13. that had slain so many thousand Philistines David counterfeits madness to escape the fury of Achis David fearing to be put to death by him and to fall into the same danger which he had escaped D by flying from Saul counterfeited himself mad so that he let the spittle issue out of his mouth and he counterfeited in all things so cunningly that he made the King of Gath believe that he was frantick 1. Sam. 22. v. 1 2. Whereupon the King was angry with his Servants that they had brought him a mad-man and commanded them forthwith to drive him out of his countrey Having in this sort escaped out of the Countrey of Gath he went to the Tribe of Juda where hiding himself in the Cave of Adullam he sent to his Brothers to let them understand that he was there They came to him with all their relations and divers others that either were in need or stood in fear of Saul resorted unto him offering to perform whatsoever he should command them they amounted in all to the number of four hundred David therefore being thus assured by the succours E and forces that came to him v. 3 4. dislodged from thence and went to the King of the Moabites David repairing to the Moabites committeth his Father and Mother to his protection beseeching him that he and those that accompanied him might remain in that Countrey till such time as he understood what would be the issue of his affairs The King vouchsafed him this favour and treated them very well all the time they were in his Countrey David went not out of it till he received instructions from the Prophet Samuel to abandon the Desart and return to the Tribe of Juda which he obeyed and coming to the City of Saron David commeth to Saron Saul feareth David made his abode there But when Saul understood that David had been seen with a number of men he fell into an extraordinary fear and trouble of mind for knowing both the conduct and courage of the man he thought that he would attempt no action that was not great and such as might endanger his Kingdom F For which cause assembling his Friends and Captains and those of his own Tribe in Gaba where he kept his Royal Court and which stands upon a little Hill called Arvon and accompanied with his Guards v. 7 8. and the Officers of his house he spake to them from his throne Sauls oration to his Captains friends and estates against David after this manner I cannot believe that you have forgotten the benefits wherewith I have enriched you and the honours to which I have advanced you But I would know of you whether you hope or expect greater from the Son of Jesse for I am not ignorant of the affection which you bear him and that my own Son hath inspired the same into you I know that Jonathan and he are united without my consent in a very strict alliance that they have confirmed the same by oath and that Jonathan assists David against me with all his power Yet are none of you concerned at these things but in great quiet you expect what will be the event of them G When the King had spoken thus and none of the assistants answered a word Doeg the Syrian Master of the Kings Mules rose up and said That he had seen David in the City of Nob whither he went to the High Priest Abimelech to ask counsel of him touching his affairs and that he had received from him such things as were needful to his journey H and Goliaths Sword and how he was safely conducted towards the place whither he pretended to go Hereupon Saul sent for the High Priest and all his kindred and spake thus unto them What wrong or displeasure have I done thee that thou hast entertained the Son of Jesse v. 9. and given him Victuals and Arms to him I say that seeketh but the means to possess himself of my Kingdom Doeg telleth Saul how he saw David in Nob with Abimelech what answer hast thou made him touching those demands he propounded to thee concerning his future fortunes canst thou be ignorant that he fled from me and what hatred he bears against both me and my family The High Priest denied none of these things but freely confessed that he had delivered him such things as were reported v. 10 11 12 13. but not with an intent to gratifie David but the King for I entertained him said he not as your Enemy Saul reproveth Abimelech for furnishing David with Victuals and Arms. but as your faithful Servant and one of the principal I Officers of your Army and which is more as your Son-in-law For who would have thought that one dignified with so much honour by you should be your Enemy nay rather who would not esteem him for your favourite and neerest friend And whereas he asked counsel of me touching Gods will v. 14. this is not the first time I have answered him but I have formerly done it often Abimelechs Apology to Sauls accusation of Treason And when he said he was sent by you about some speedy and secret business if I should have refused him those supplies which he required at my hands I might have
been judged to have done an injury to your Majesty Wherefore you ought not to think evil of me or that if David at this time hath some ill design against you v. 15 16 17. that by reason of the courtesie I have shewed him The unjust slaughter of Abimelech with his whole Family I either favour him or maintain him to your prejudice Notwithstanding all these just allegations Saul could not be induced to believe him but imagined that it K was fear that made Abimelech speak in this manner so that he commanded certain armed men that were about him to put both him and all his family to the sword But when they excused themselves because it was no less than Sacriledge to violate by violent death Nob the City of the Priests is burnt and all the inhabitants slain such persons as were consecrated unto God Saul commanded Doeg the Syrian to commit the slaughter who accordingly with certain other sacrilegious and impious men murthered Abimelech and all his Race who were in number three hundred thirty and five Sup. li. 5. ca. 11. He further sent to Nob the City of the Priests and put all of them to the sword sparing neither woman nor child and consumed the whole City with fire only one Son of Abimelech escaped 1 King 2. 3. who was called Abiathar All which came to pass according as God had foretold to the High Priest Eli that by reason of the transgression L of his two Sons his posterity should be extinguished This cruel and detestable act perpetrated by King Saul in shedding the blood of all the Sacerdotal Race v. 18 19. without either compassion of Infants or reverence of old age A manifest exemplification of that proverb Honours change manners and his destroying of that City which God had chosen to be the residence of the Priests and Prophets manifestly shews how far the pravity of the mind of man may proceed For so long as men are low and limited by a private estate because they neither dare nor can give scope to their wicked inclinations they seem good and just and make shew of great love of justice and of a sence of pity Note diligently and are persuaded that God is present in all our actions and discerneth all our cogitations But no sooner do they attain to Power and Empire but they lay aside their former fair semblances they take upon them as it were a new part and another personage becoming M audacious and insolent and contemners of both Divine and Humane Laws And though the height of their sâ—ution exposing even their least actions to the view of all the World ought to make them comport themselves irreprehensibly yet as if they thought that God shut his eyes or feared them they will needs have him approve and men account just all that their Fear Hatred or Imprudence suggests to them without troubling themselves what will be the issue So that after having rewarded great services with great honours they are not contented to deprive those that had so justly merited them upon false reports and calumnies but they also take away their lives not considering how deservedly they oppress but only giving credit without proof to rash and scandalous detractions executing and satiating their rage not on those they ought to punish but on those that may most easily be destroyed A manifest example whereof appears N in Saul the Son of Cis who after the Government of the Nobility and that of the Judges having been established the first King of the Hebrews slew three hundred Priests and Prophets only for that he suspected Abimelech and after he had slain them destroyed their City with fire v. 20. 21. and as much as in him lay deprived the High Temple of God of Priests Abiathar escaping from Sauls hands telleth David of the slaughter of Abimelech his Father and of the Priests sacred Ministers and after so hideous a slaughter neither spared their Countrey nor any of their off-spring But Abiathar Abimelechs Son who only escaped of all his family flying to David declared to him both the overthrow of his family and the death of his Father David answered him that he expected no less than that which hapned at such time as he espied Doeg there who as his mind gave him would not fail to calumniate Abimelech to Saul yet he was extreamly sorrowful for the misfortune that hapned O to his friend by his means and therefore prayed him to remain with him because he could not be concealed or secured in any place better than with himself A About the same time David understanding that the Philistines made an inroad into the Countrey of Ceila and wasted the same he determined to assault them if after the Prophet had asked counsel of God he should be by the Oracle animated to it which accordingly falling out he sallied out accompained by his friends and set upon the Philistines and made a great slaughter of them and recovered a very rich prey and gave safeguard to the Ceilans till they had safely gathered in and housed all their Corn and fruit The rumor of this his exploit was presently brought to Saul for this great action was not shut up within the limits of the place where it was performed David defendeth Cilla against the incursions of the Philistines but the renown thereof was dispersed every where and both the Action and the Author thereof were highly commended Saul was very joyful to hear that David was in Ceila B imagining that God had delivered him into his hands by leading him to shut up himself in a City inclosed with Walls 1 Sam. 23. 1 2 3 ad 7. Gates and Barrs whereupon he suddenly gave commandement to his Soldiers to march against Ceila v. 7 8. and besiege the same and not to raise the Siege till David were either taken or slain Saul seeketh to besiege David in Cilla But David having intelligence hereof and advertised by God that if he stayed among the Ceilans v. 9. 10 11 12. they would deliver him into the hands of Saul took with him his four hundred men David admonished by God flieth from his danger and withdrew himself from the City into the Desart and encamped on a hill called Engaddi Whereof the King being advertized forbore to send out an Army against him From thence David departed into the territories of Ziph where Jonathan v. 13 14. Sauls Son David came with his Army to Caena or Ziphia where Jonathan cometh unto him comforteth him and reneweth his covenant met him and after embraces exhorted him to be of good courage C and to conceive assured hope of future good fortune and not to give place to his present miseries because he should one day obtain the Kingdom and have the whole State of the Hebrews subject to him but that such things were not wont to happen till after
suffering great Travels and after they had once more renewed the oath of mutual Amity and Faith between them for all the time of their lives calling God to witness with imprecations against him that should fail therein Jonathan left David somewhat eased in heart and disburthened of his fear and returned to his own home But the Ziphians to gratifie Saul told him v. 19. that David was amongst them and promised to deliver him prisoner into his hands The Ziphians certifie Saul of Davids abode in their Countrey if so be he would come out against him for if he would seize all the straights of the Countrey it should be impossible for him to flie into D any other place The King praised their fidelity and promised them to require it and to remunerate them shortly for this their good affection and withall sent out certain men to seek out David and to break over the Forest promising them that shortly he would follow after them Thus did the Governours and Princes of the Ziphians offer themselves to the King to search out and apprehend him expressing their affection therein not only in outward shew but also with their whole power labouring what they might that surprizing him they might deliver him into the Kings hands But their unjust desire had as unfortunate success wicked people as they were who being to incur no peril by concealing him from pursuit promised to betray him into the Kings hands through adulation and avarice v. 26. a man that was both vertous and wrongfully persecuted E to death by his Enemies David hearing of the Kings coming flieth to save himself For David being informed of their malice and of the Kings approach quitted those narrow straights wherein he then encamped and escaped to a certain Rock sâ—ituate in the Desart of Simon Saul continued to pursue him and knowing by the way that he had overcome the straights he came to the other side of the Rock where David had surely been taken had not the King been revoked by tidings which assured him that the Philistines had forcibly entred and spoyled his Kingdom v. 27 28. For he thought it more conveninet to revenge himself on those his publick and open Enemies Saul pursueth David and having circumvented him had taken him had not he received news that revoked him and to give succor to his Countrey and people being ready to be spoiled and wasted than out of desire to lay hands on a private Enemy to betray both his Countrey and Subjects to their Swords and thus was David saved beyond all expectation and F he retired himself to the straights of Engaddi But after Saul had repelled the Philistines certain news was brought him that David was in the straights of Engaddi whereupon presently taking with him three thousand of the choicest men in all his Army he led them speedily to the forenamed place and being not far from thence he perceived near the high way a deep and large Cave where David with his four hundred men were hid and he descended alone into the Cave to disburthen the necessities of nature This was presently discovered by one of Davids followers who told him that God had presented him a fit opportunity to revenge him on his Enemy 1 Sam. 24 5. and counselled him to cut off Sauls head David cut off the lap of Sauls Garment and to discharge himself thereby of further trouble But David arising and finding him out only cut off the lap of the vesture wherewith Saul was attired and presently G thereupon repented himself saying that it were a wicked deed in him to kill his Lord whom God by Election had raised to the estate of Majesty and Empire For said he although he be unjust toward me yet ought I not to be injurious towards him who is my Lord. But when Saul was gon out of the Cave David followed him and cryed with a loud H voice beseeching Saul to give him audience Saul turning back to him David cast himself prostrate at his feet according to the custome and spake after this manner How unworthy is it for thee O King that opening thy ears to scandalous backbiters and giving trust and credit to vain and loose men thou suspectest thy most faithfull friends whom thou rather oughtest to judge by their sincere and upright actions for words may be either false or true but the mind can be descovered by no more apparent arguments than by mens actions as at this present thou mayest judge David upbraideth Saul for his subtilities to seek his death who was innocent whether thou hast raishly believed them that make me guilty before thy Majesty of that crime that was never yet so much as in my thought and who have so much exasperated thee against me that day and night thou thinkest on nothing more than my destruction Seest thou not now how vain thy opinion is whereby they persuade thee that I I am an Enemy of thy house and earnestly desirous of thy death Or with what eyes thinkest thou doth God behold thy cruelty who seekest the death of him who having an opportunity offered him to be revenged on thee spareth thy life whose life were it in thy hands were assuredly lost For as easily might I have cut off thy head as this lap of thy garment and therewithall in confirmation of his words he shewed it him yet did I forbear this just revenge But God shall bear witness hereof and shall condemn him of us two that shall be found the most culpable Saul amazed to see how strangely his life had been preserved and to consider the vertue and generosity of David v. 10 ad 17. began to weep and David wept also but Saul said that he had greater cause to lament than he Saul acknowledged his malice and Davids innocency and requesteth him that when he hath obtained the Kingdom he would be favourable to his Family For said he by thy means have I received many benefits and thou at my hands hast been repayed with infinite K injuries This day hast thou testified that thou retainest the ancient justice of our ancestors who instead of taking away the lives of their Enemies when they found them at advantage accounted it glorious to spare them Now I no longer doubt that God hath reserved the Kingdom for thee and that the Empire of all the Hebrews attendeth thee Assure thou me therefore by an oath that thou wilt not exterminate my Race or remember those injuries that I have done unto thee but that sparing my posterity thou wilt keep them under thy protection David sware to him according as he had required and suffered him to return into his Realm and both he and his companies retired themselves to the straights of Maspha About the same time died Samuel the Prophet a man who for his merit was in great estimation amongst the Hebrews Samuels death and burial the testimony of L
all which had hapned But when his grief was abated and he returned to himself he lifted up his heart unto God and B commanded the High-Priest Abiathar to put on the Ephod and ask counsel of God and that done Ver. 7 8 9. to declare unto him how he might overtake the Amalekites if he should pursue them David taketh counsel of God whether he will assist him to recover his Wives and Goods out of the hands of the Amalekites and whether he should recover his Wives and Children that they had led away and revenge himself of his Enemies As soon as the High-Priest had certified him that he might pursue them he sallied out with 600 Soldiers and pursued the Enemy and drawing near unto the River he found a certain stragler an Egyptian by Nation very faint and feeble through want and famine having for three dayes space wandered in the Desart without any sustenance whom after he had refreshed with meat and drink he asked to whom he belonged and what he was The Egyptian told him his Countrey and how he had been left in that place by his Master because that through his weakness it was C impossible for him to follow them He confessed likewise that his Master was one of the number of those that had burned and sacked Ver. 11 ad 19. not only other quarters of Judea but Siceleg also David guided by an Egyptian slave overtaketh the Amalekites David taking this Man for his Guide overtook them finding some of them lying on the ground others banquetting and debauching and almost sensless by overmuch drink wherefore being not in a condition to defend themselves he fell upon them and slew so great a number that scarce 400 Men escaped for the slaughter continued from Noon until the Evening David assaileth the Amalekites makes a great slaughter of them and recovereth the whole prey So recovered he all that which the Enemy had ransackt and released both his own Wives and those of his Companions Whereupon they returned to the place where they had left the other 200 which could not follow them because they were appointed to guard the Baggage To these the 400 would not grant a part D of the Booty because they had not as they said followed the Enemy with them but shewed themselves slack in the pursuit alledging that they ought to content themselves with the recovery of their Wives But David thought the sentence pronounced against them to be unjust Ver. 20 ad 25. for since they had defeated their Enemies all of them deserved to partake of profit David compromitteth the debate betwixt those that pursued the chase and those that kept the Baggage touching the pillage which ought equally to be divided both amongst those that fought and amongst those that stayed behind to guard the Baggage And from that day forward this Law hath been firmly observed amongst them that they that guard the Baggage should have an equal part of the prey with those that go out to Battel But when David was returned to Siceleg he sent unto his Friends of the Tribe of Juda apart of the spoil In this manner was Siceleg sacked and burned and thus were the Amalekites discomfited E But the Philistines fought a bloody Battel with Saul wherein they got the Victory and slew a great number of their Enemies Saul King of Israel with his Sons fought valiantly and seeing that there was no hopes of conquering they endeavoured to die as honourably as they could 1 Sam. 31. 1 2 3. For since the Philistines bent all their Forces against them they could not make good their Retreat Saul and his sons seeing their Army overcome by the Philistines are desperately dismayed and slain so that incompassed by them they died in the midst of them and yet before their death slew a great number of their Enemies There were there present Sauls three sons Jonathan Aminadab and Melchi who being defeated the Hebrew Army turned their backs so that being closely pursued by the Enemy there was a great slaughter made Saul with those about him retreated in good order And although the Philistines drew out against him a multitude of Archers that shot many F Darts and Arrows at him yet were they all but a very few repulsed and although he had fought very bravely having received divers wounds yet being unable any longer to support himself he commanded his Esquire to draw his Sword and to thrust it through his Body 1 Sam. 31. 4 c. before he should be taken alive by his Enemies which he refused not daring to lay hands upon his Master Saul striveth to kill himself and being unable useth the assistance of a young Amalekite Whereupon Saul drew his own Sword and setting it to his Breast cast himself thereon but unable to force it home enough he looked back and saw a young man behind him whom he asked What he was and hearing that he was an Amalekite he requested him That he would kill him that he might not fall alive into the hands of his Enemies which he did and having taken from him the Gold which he had about his arms and the Royal Crown he fled The Esquire seeing Saul G dead presently slew himself Not one of all the Kings Guard escaped but they were all slain near unto the Mountain Gilboa When they that inhabited the Valley on the other side of Jordan and in the Plain had intelligence that Saul and his sons were dead and with them a great number of their Nation was slain The year of the World 2891 before Christ's Nativity 1073. they abandoned their Cities H and fled to others that were better fortified The Philistines finding these Cities destitute of Inhabitants seized on them The next day whil'st the Philistines spoiled the dead they found the bodies of Saul and his sons which they spoiled and beheaded sending their Heads round about the Countrey â—a Ver. 7 ad 10. to make it known that their Enemies were defeated They offered up their Arms also in the Temple of Astaroth and their Bodies they hung on the Walls of the City of Bethsan The Hebrews that inhabit the Valley beyond Jordan leaving their towns flie to defenced cities at this day called Scythopolis When they of Jabes a City of Galaad understood how the Philistines had cut off the Heads of Saul and his sons they were enraged and thought it became them not to be unconcerned whereupon the most valiant amongst them went out and marched all night till they came to Bethsan and approaching near the Walls they took down the Bodies of I Saul and his sons Ver. 9. and carried them unto Jabes without any opposition of the Enemy These men of Jabes lamented over the dead Bodies The Philistines hung up the bodies of Saul and his Sons and buried them in the best part of their Countrey called Arar Thus they mourned both Men
forwardness for he ran not only more swift than other men Twelve soldiers fight and kill one another and Abners side are overthrown but outstripped horses also in their race Whilst thus he pursued Abner with great vehemence without turning either to the one side or the other Abner seeing himself closely pressed after advised him to forbare his pursuit and promised him a compleat K sute of Armor for a present but seeing him still advance he desired him that he would not constrain him to kill him v. 17 ad 23. and thereby render his brother Joab implacable Azael Joabs Brother pursueth Abner But Azal not regarding him Abner struck him through with a Javelin so that he presently died But they that pursued Abner likewise arriving in the place where Azaels body lay dead Abner in his flight killeth Azael stood round about him and forbare to pursue the Enemy any further But Joab and his Brother Abisai passing by and conceiving a more mortal hatred against Abner v. 25 ad 30. because he had slain their Brother Joab and Abisai pursued 〈◊〉 Sun-set they pursued him til Sun-set unto a place called Amon that is the aqueduct There mounting upon a hillock he saw Abner with the Tribe of Benjamin flying from him who began to cry out to him that men of the same Tribe ought not to be so incensed the one against the other v â—0 ad finem that their Brother Azael was in L the fault Joab sounding a Retreat restraineth his Soldiers because that although he had exhorted him to cease from pursuing him yet could he not persuade him and that therefore he had slain him Joab considering these his sayings How many on each side died in the Battel he commanded the Trumpet to sound a Retreat and forbare to pursue them any more and incamped for that night in the same place during which time Abner travelled without ceasing 2 Sam 3. 1 2. and having past over Jordan returned to his camp to Isboseth Sauls Son The begining of civil war amongst the Hebrews The next day Joab surveyed the dead and caused them to be buried Those that were found dead on Abners side were about three hundred and sixty men and on Davids nineteen besides Azael whose body Joab and Abisai took with them and carried it to Bethlehem á v. 2. ad 5. and after they had interred it in the Tomb of their Ancestors David had six Sons born in Hebron they repaired to Hebron unto David From that time forward there arose a civil War amongst the Hebrews M and endured a long time in which Davids followers had alwayes the upper-hand and never adventured the hazard of the field without some gaining advantage á v. 6. ad 11. whereas the Son of Saul and his partakers were daily weakened Abner bridled and governed the multitude so that a long time they were subject to Ishboseth David at that time had six Sons and as many Wives the eldest of them was called Ammon the Son of Achimaas the second was Daniel the Son of Abigal the third was called Absolon the Son of Maacha the daughter of Tolmar King of Gessure the fourth was Adonias the Son of his Wife called Aggite á v. 12 ad 17. the fifth was Sphacia the Son of Abithal the sixth Jethraam the Son of Egla Abner sendeth Embassadors to David in Hebron to make a covenant with him But after this civil War was begun and that the Kings on both sides had oftentimes encountred and fought together Abner the General of the Army of King Sauls Son a prudent man and one that was beloved by the people endeavored all N that in him lay that the whole Countrey might be commanded by Isboseth and in effect they all submitted unto him for a certain time David requireth his Wife Michol at Abners hands but when it afterwards fell out that Abner was charged to have kept company with Rispa Sauls Concubine the Daughter of Sibath and that Isboseth reproved him for it he was much incensed as thinking himself very ill rewarded for his services whereupon he threatned to establish the Kingdom of David and to make Isboseth know that it was neither his own valour nor conduct that made him Soveraign over the Tribes on that side Jordan but that his fidelity and experience was the cause thereof Whereupon he sent unto Hebron to David requiring him by an oath to accept of him as his confederate and friend promising him to persuade the people to forsake Sauls Son and to proclaime him King of the whole Country David O sware unto him as he had required and very joyfully received his offices and the more to confirm this league betwixt them he sent back Michol Davids wife whom he had purchased A of her Father Saul with the heads of 600 Philistines which Michol The year of the World 2891. before Christ's Nativity 1073. Abner had taken from Phalti who had since that time espoused her whereunto Ishboseth also consented to whom David had written Abner therefore assembled all the Elders and Governors of the people and told them that at such time as heretofore they were ready to forsake Ishboseth and to submit themselves to David he dissuaded them from that intent David requireth his Wife Michol at Abners hands but that he was now willing to comply with them because he was assured that God had chosen David by the mouth of Samuel the Prophet to be King over all Israel and had foretold that he should subdue the Philistines and bring them under his subjection Which when the Elders and Governors understood Abner consulteth with the Elders and Governours of the Army to revolt to David they all of them agreed to submit themselves to David Abner seeing them thus resolved did afterwards assemble all the Tribe B of Benjamin out of which the Archers of Ishboseths guard were chosen and told them the like and perceiving that they complied with him and submitted themselves unto his pleasure he gathered about twenty of his familiar friends and came to David to receive him in his own person à v. 20. ad 23. in confirmation of what David had promised David received and entertained him very kindly The Elders Captain pursuaded by Abner follow David and magnificently feasted him for many days after which Abner desired him that he might return and bring the people with him to the end that in their presence and sight he might deliver him up the government When David had dissmissed Abner The Benjamites accord with Abner he resorteth to David and certifieth him thereof some little time after his departure Joad the General of Davids Army came to Hebron and knowing that Abner had been with David and was lately departed from him and considering the merit of Abner whom he knew to be a great C Captain and the eminent service
demanded where the Prophet dwelt they told him Saul asketh where the Prophet dwelleth and advised him to make haste before he was set down to supper for at that time he entertained divers persons at his house Samuel had invited this company by reason that all the day long he had instantly besought God to declare to him who it was that should be established King and God had given him to understand that the next day and at the same hour v. 15 16 17. he would send a young man to him of the Tribe of Benjamin who was the person he had chosen God certifieth Samuel whom he should create King Thus Samuel sate in the upper part of his house M expecting the time appointed which being come he came down to go to supper and in the way he met Saul At that very instant God signified to Samuel that it was he whom he had elected Prince and Governour over the people Saul addressing himself to Samuel desired him to shew him the Prophets lodging being he was a stranger v. 18 19. and knew it not Samuel told him that he himself was the man and invited him to the banquet Saul cometh unto Samuel Samuel certifieth Saul how he shall enjoy the Kingdom assuring him that not only his Asses in search of which he had travelled so long were safe but that he should reign and abound with all sort of goods Saul answered My Lord I am too mean to hope or expect so much and my Tribe is the least of all the Tribes and you mock me in speaking such things as surpass my condition v. 23 24. The Prophet took him by the hand and brought N both him and his Servant to the table Samuel conducteth Saul unto the banquet and placed him above all those that were invited who were to the number of seventy and he placed his Servant next him Samuel commanded that a royal portion should be set before Saul and when the hour of bed-time came all the rest arose and departed to their houses but Saul and his Servant lodged that night with the Prophet and as soon as it was day Samuel awaked Saul and leading him out of Town commanded him to send his Servant before and to remain himself with him behind because he had certain things to impart to him in private Hereupon Saul sent away his Servant and Samuel taking a Cruse of Oyl powred the same upon the young mans head and embracing him said God establisheth thee King over his people 1 Sam. 10. 1 to avenge them of the Philistines Thou shalt have this sign O of the truth of what I tell thee Samuel 〈…〉 when thou art departed from hence thou shalt overtake three men in the way travelling to Bethel to adore and sacrifice to God the first of A which thou shalt see bearing three Loaves the second a Goat and the third a bottle of Wine These shall embrace thee and caress thee and they shall give thee two Loaves and thou shalt receive them And from thence shalt thou depart to Rachel where thou shalt meet a Messenger that shall certifie thee that the Asses are found From thence coming unto Gabatha thou shalt find the Prophets assembled in their Congregation v. 2. ad 1. and being filled with the Spirit of God thou shalt prophesie amongst them so that whosoever shall behold thee Samuel in way of confirmation telleth Saul what shall befortune him in his journey shall say with admiration Whence cometh it to pass that the Son of Cis hath attained so good fortune and when thou hast had these signs thou canst no longer doubt that God is with thee go and salute thy Father and thy kinsmen and then come back to me at Galgal to the end we may offer sacrifices of B thanksgiving to God Samuel having in this manner spoken to Saul gave him licence to depart and all these things hapned to Saul according as the Prophet Samuel had foretold him When Saul arrived at the house of his Father Abner who was his Uncle and whom he loved above all the rest of his Friends questioned with him about his voyage and those things that had hapned to him and Saul hid nothing from him but particularly informed him of all that hapned to him during his abode with the Prophet Samuel and how he had told him of the recovery of his Asses but touching the Royalty and those things that concerned the same he said nothing fearing that either it would not be believed Saul concealed his Royal dignity or else it would draw envy upon him For although he were both his friend and cousin yet he thought it more secure and convenient to C keep it silent The inconstancy of mans love considering the infirmity of mans nature and that few men are constant in friendship and capable of beholding without envy the prosperity of others even their neer relations and friends though they know that the same befalls them by the particular favour of God Samuels oration to the people as concerning Saul After this Samuel assembled the people in the City of Maspha where he spoke to them in this manner Behold what God hath commanded me to tell you in his name When you groan'd under the yoke of the Egyptians I freed you from servitude and delivered you from the tyranny of the Neighbouring Kings who conquered you so often Now in acknowledgment of so many benefits you will have me no longer for your King and as if you were ignorant that the greatest good that can happen to men is to be governed by him that is the soveraign good D You abandon your God to set a man upon the throne who according to his pleasure and the unbridled bent of his passion will use you like beasts and will usurp upon your goods without forbearing any thing whatsoever For how can men have as great love for men as I whose handy work they are Notwithstanding since you have thus determined and fear not to commit so great an outrage against God rank your selves in order according to your Tribes and Families and cast your lots To this the people condescended and the lot fell on the Tribe of Benjamin v. 19. being cast the second time it fell on the Family of Metri Lots cast thorow every Tribe and Family and afterwards being cast upon the men of that family it fell upon Saul who was the Son of Cis. The young man who before knew what would happen had stept aside to the end that it might not seem that he was ambitious of his dignity The E moderation he shewed in this matter was remarkable for whereas most men cannot conceal their joy when any degree of felicity falls upon them but manifest the same to all men Saul not only was void of vain appearance although he were to be King and Lord of so many worthy people but which is
more v. 21. he stole away from the presence of those men over whom he was to command Sauls modesty and temperance in undertaking the Government and obliged them to seek after him and labour to find him out Whilest therefore they carefully sought and knew not what was become of Saul the Prophet prayed God that he would shew them where he was and bring him into their presence which having obtained he sent out certain messengers to conduct him thither v. 22. and as soon as he came amongst them Saul hideth himself from the presence of the people Samuel placed him in the midst of the people Now he was taller than any of the company by the shoulders F and had a Kingly and goodly shape and appearance Then spake the Prophet after this manner v. 23. God hath given you this man to be your King behold how he surpasseth you all and shews himself worthy to be your Prince Saul of a high stature But assoon as the people had cried God save the King v. 24. the Prophet who had reduced into writing all those mischiefs that should befall them Saul saluted by the people for their King read the same to them in the hearing of the King and put the book into the Tabernacle of God for a perpetual testimony to posterity of those things which in future ages should succeed v. 26 27. according as he had prophesied which done Samuel dismissed the people and returned to the City of Ramath Divers attend on Saul othersome contemn him which was his Countrey But Saul departing to Gabatha divers worthy men gave their attendance on him and paid him the honour that appertained to a King But divers seditious and loose companions who set him at naught G both mocked them Hedio Ruffinus chap. 5. and those things which he did neither brought they any presents unto Saul 1 Sam. 11. â— ad 4. nor seemed either in affection or in word to respect their King A month after this installment there fell a War betwixt him and Nahas King of the Ammonites which brought him great reputation This Nahas had offered divers outrages to those H Jews that dwell on the other side of Jordan For he had passed the River with a great Army levied against them and had taken divers of their Cities And to the intent they might not revolt to deliver themselves from his subjection he used this subtilty and prevention To all that surrendred themselves to his mercy or that were taken Captives in the wars he plucked out their right eyes and this he did to the end that when they would defend themselves they might have their left eyes covered with their Bucklers and by that means unable to use their Armor Sauls War against the Ammonites The King of the Ammonites having after this manner dealt with those on the other side of Jordan he led his Army against the Galaadites and encamped near their chief City called Jabehs 1 Sam. 11. 3 4 5 6. to which he sent Heralds to summon the inhabitants to surrender on these conditions either to suffer their right eyes I to be pulled out or else by enduring the siege to see the final overthrow both of themselves and of their City requiring them to chuse which they lik'd either to lose a little part of their body Nahas King of the Ammonites offereth unjust conditions of peace to the Galaadites or hazard both their Fortunes and lives together The Galaadites terrified with this dreadful election knew not what to resolve upon but asked truce for seven dayes to the end that sending their messengers to those of their Nation they might crave their aid which if they could obtain they would War otherwise they promised to submit themselves unto the enemy on what conditions were best pleasing unto him The Ambassadours of the Galaadites to the Israelites Nahas made no difficulty to grant them what they demanded so much he contemned the Israelites and he permitted them likewise to crave assistance at all their hands who were their associates Whereupon they presently sent messengers K from City to City and certified the Israelites of all that Nahas had done unto them and the extremity whereunto they were reduced The Israelites understanding in what estate they of Jabesh were greatly lamented their condition but their fear suffered them to assist their friends in no other manner than by commiseration Yet as soon as their messengers arrived in the City where Saul was and that they had recounted to him the dangers wherewith the Jabesites were oppressed the people were also moved with unprofitable compassion But Saul at his returning from the field into the City perceiving the inhabitants drowned in tears and enquiring for what cause they were so dejected he no sooner understood it but he was stirred up by the Spirit of God and sent the Ambassadors back again to those that sent them promising that within three L days he would succour them v. 7 8 9. and that he would have the upper hand of the enemy before Sun-rise Saul promiseth assistance to the Jabesites to the end that the rising Sun might behold them victorious and delivered from all fear In the mean time he commanded some of them to stay with him to the intent they might guide him in the way CHAP. VI. The Combat and Victory of Saul over the Ammonites SAul desirous Sauls serious exhortations and command for War by the fear of punishment to incite the people to take arms immediatly and make War upon the Ammonites cut the hams of his own oxen and threatned M all those whom he met with to do the like to theirs except the next day they presented themselves with their Arms upon the bank of Jordan to follow the King and the Prophet Samuel whither they would conduct them The fear of this penalty published among the Tribes made them gather to a body about the same time so that all the parties of the people were mustred in the City of Bala In this survey besides those of the Tribe of Juda were numbred seven hundred thousand men and of the Tribe of Juda in particular 1 Sam. 11 v. 11 12. there were seventy thousand Saul having passed Jordan and marched all night came before Sun-rise to the place where he intended to conduct them Ten Shâ—oeni or Cables length of Nilus so called by the cords that draw the Ships by Nilus make 37 Italian miles and dividing his Army into three parts he attaqued the enemy on every side who suspected no such encounter and fighting valiantly against them he N slew divers and amongst the rest Nahas King of the Ammonites This victory made Sauls name famous amongst the Hebrews so that he was wonderfully praised and honoured for his valour and if before any contemned him now they changed their opinions and honoured him and accounted him the
married to David having obtained that degree of honour by her modesty and beauty Now David had a Wife before named Ahinoam V. 39. ad finem whom he had married out of the City of Abesar As touching Michol the Daughter of Saul David marrieth Abigail Nabals wife and other-whiles his Wife Saul gave her to Wife at Lissa to the Son of Phalti of the City of Gethla After this certain Ziphians coming to Saul Saul marrieth his daughter Michol to another husband told him that David was returned again into their Countrey and that if it pleased him to assist them they might easily apprehend him Whereupon Saul took the Field with 3000 Men and being surprized by Night he encamped in a certain place called Siceleg 1 Sam. 26. v. 1 ad 9. F When David was certified that Saul was come forth against him The Ziphians once more labour to betray David in their Countrey he sent out certain Spies to whom he gave charge to bring him intelligence into what place at that time Saul was retired who ascertained him that he was at Siceleg he watched all that Night without the knowledge of any of his Followers and went into Sauls Camp attended only by Abisai his sister Servia's Son and Abimelech the Hittite V. 7 8 ad 13. Now whil'st Saul was asleep David once more attended by two entering into Sauls Camp stole away his Dart and his Pitcher of water and his General Abner with all his Soldiers David entred into the Kings Camp and although he knew the Kings Pavilion by his Javelin that stood at the door thereof yet slew he him not neither permitted he Abisai who was very forward to execute the slaughter But this he said that although the King were wicked yet since he was appointed by God himself he could not attempt any thing G against his life and be innocent for that it was Gods right to take vengeance on him to whom he had given the Kingdom and thus restrained he the others fury Yet to the intent he might certifie the King that having the opportunity to slay him he spared his life The year of the World 2891. before Christ's Nativity 1073. he bare away with him his Javelin and the Pitcher of water that stood by H Saul whil'st he slept without the knowledge of any of the Camp so much were they devoured and overwhelmed with sleep He therefore departed thence in all assurance having executed all that which either the time or his courage would permit him to do But after he had passed the River and had attained the top of a Mountain from whence he might be easily heard he cryed out to Sauls Soldiers and their General Abner so loud that he awaked them from their sleep and calling unto Abner as well as the common sort of Soldiers Ver. 14 ad 18. the General asked Who it was that called him to whom David answered David upbraideth Abner King Sauls General for suffering his Kings Javelin and Pitcher of water to be taken from him It is I the Son of Jesse your Fugitive but said he How cometh it to pass that thou who art so great and in chiefest authority about the King hast so small respect and guard of his person Thy sleep is more pleasant unto thee than to watch for his conservation Assuredly this I act of thine deserveth a capital punishment because thou neither hast discovered me nor any others before we entred the Camp or approached the King Behold here the Kings Javelin and his Pitcher of water by which you may perceive in what great danger he hath been even in the midst of you without any notice or discovery of yours Saul perceiving that it was Davids voice A ver 21 ad finem and seeing that through the negligence of his Guards Saul praiseth David and willeth him to be of good courage and exhorteth him to return to his own house it had been easie for him to have slain him which after so many provocations would not have seem'd strange to any man he acknowledged himself indebted to him for his life exhorting him to be assured and without suspecting any evil to return home unto his house because he was persuaded that he loved not himself so much as he was beloved by David notwithstanding that he had pursued him and for a long time K had chased him like a Fugitive constraining him by divers persecutions to forsake his dearest Friends and instead of rewarding his services had reduc'd him to the utmost extremities Hereupon David willed him to send some one of his Servants to bring back his Javelin and Pitcher of water protesting that God should be Judge of both their natures manners and actions who knew that that day also he had spared his Enemy whom if he had thought good he might have destroyed David having thus the second time spared Saul's life 1 Sam. 27. 1. and not willing to continue any longer in a Countrey David declareth his innocency to Saul where he might be in danger of falling at length into the hands of his Enemies he thought good to retire into the Countrey of the Philistines and sojourn there Saul desisteth to persecute David So that accompanied with 600 Men which he had with him he went to Achis L King of Gath one of their five Cities who received him kindly and gave him a place to dwell in Ver. 8 ad fin so that he abode in Gath having with him his two Wives Atchimaas and Abigail David with six hundred men and his two wives went into Palestine to Achis King of Gitia Which when Saul understood he troubled him no more because he had twice been in danger of his life whil'st he pursued him David held it not convenient to remain in the City of Gath and therefore requested the King of the Philistines that he would assign him some part of his Countrey where he might make his habitation because he feared to be chargeable to him if he remained in the City Achis assigned to him a Village called Siceleg David requireth a certain place at the Kings hands to make his habitation in which David after he obtained the Kingdom loved so well that he purchased the perpetual inheritance of it after he came to the Crown But hereof will we speak in another place The time that David lived amongst the Philistines M and in the Town of Siceleg were four months and twenty days during which time The King giveth him Siceleg by several excursions against the bordering Sarrites and Amalekites he spoiled their Countrey and returned back again with a great booty of Oxen and Camels yet brought he thence no Bondmen David spoiled the Sarrites and Amalekites and giveth part of the prey to the King persuading him that he took it from the Jews that inhabited the South Plain lest Achis by their means should thereby have intelligence
which he was now likely to do for David he began to fear some dieminution of his own greatness and that the Army was not like to continue under his command Abner being kindly entertained by David is friendly dismissed whereupon he endeavoured to persuade David to give no credit to the promises of Abner since he was very well assured that he had no other design than to settle the Crown upon Ishboseth that this whole treaty was nothing else but a meer trick to cheat him of his Kingdom and that Abner was returned with a great deal of joy because his designs were like to succeed so well But perceiving that these his subtilties took little effect with David v. 24 c. he attempted a more perilous exploit than the former For resolving with himself to kill Abner he sent out certain men after him whom he appointed that as soon as they should overtake him they should desire him in Davids D name to return with speed v. 26. because he had forgot to speak to him about some affairs of great importance When Abner heard the words of these messengers whoover took him in a place called Besira v. 27. some twenty Furlongs off of Hebron he struck out of the way without suspecting any treachery and Joab going before him embraced him with great kindness and like an affectionate friend and singling him from his other company and making as if he would inform him of certain secrets and having drawn him into a by-way beside the wall accompanied only with his Brother Abisai he drew his sword and thrust it into his short ribs of which wound Abner died surprised by the Treason of Joab who coloured that act of his with the revenge and death of his Brother Azael whom Abner E had slain whilst he was pursued by him in the first war at Hebron but in truth it was but the suspition of his greatness and honour fearing lest he should be deprived of his place Men inclined to ambition and avarice dare all things and Abner obtain the next degree of honour unto David Hereby may a man perceive how many and how mighty things men attempt and hazard for their avarice and ambition sake and to the end they may not be inferiour unto any others For when they desire to attain riches and honours they atchieve it by ten thousand mischiefs and at such time as they fear to be dispossest they strive to continue their estates by means more pernicious because they think it to be the less sin and that the unhappiness is less rather not to have obtained to any greatness and power than after the possession thereof to fall from it Thence it cometh that all of them intend and practise F many hazards and difficulty through the fear they have to forfeit their Grandeur But it sufficeth to have briefly touched this point David having notice of the murther of Abner conceived a great grief in his heart and called all his friends to witness lifting up his hands unto God and protesting that he was no partaker of the murther and that Abner had been slain without his knowledge He likewise uttered most grievous curses against the murtherer v. 31. his house and accomplices praying that they might be overtaken by that vengeance which useth to pursue the murtherer David with the whole people bewail Abner and honour his funeral for he greatly suspected lest he should be thought to be a party in that which had hapned unto Abner contrary to his Faith and promise which he had past unto him Moreover he commanded that all the people should weep and lament for him and that his Funerals should be honoured according G to the accustomed manner in renting of Garments and putting on Sackcloth and that the same should be done the Coffin being carried before which both he and the chiefest Governours of the Israelites followed beating on their Breasts and shedding tears The year of the World 2899. before Christ's Nativity 1065. and testifying the love which they bare unto him during his life and their sorow for H his death who had been murthered contrary to their will and intention He was Entombed in Hebron with great Magnificence and Epitaphs composed in his praise by David himself who setting himself on the Tomb first of all lamented and gave others an example to follow him And so much was he troubled at the death of Abner that he forbore all kind of meat until the Sun-set notwithstanding the instances of his friends who urged him to take meat which act of his purchased him much love amongst the people v 33 ad 35. For they that loved Abner were very glad to be witnesses of that honour which he did him at his death David sâ—lveth his honour and avoideth the suspicion of Abners death and that faith which he maintained in honouring him as if he had been his Kinsman or friend and not embasing him with a vile and contemptible Tomb as if he had been his Enemy And in general all of them were so much possessed I with the sweetness and Royal nature of King David that they believed he would have the like kindness for them as they saw him express for deceased Abner And by this means David happily maintained his credit and increased the peoples good opinion of him escaping thereby the suspition that he might in some sort have been accessary to his death He protested also unto the people that he conceived no small grief at the loss of so good a man declaring that it was a great prejudice to the State to be deprived of him maintained their peace by his good advice and ratified the same by his executions and Warlike valour But God said he who hath care of all things shall not suffer him to die unrevenged And he it is that shall bear me witness that it lieth not in my power to punish Joab and Abisai who have greater credit in the Army than K my self yet shall they not escape Gods justice for this fault Thus ended the life of Abner CHAP. II. Ishboseth is slain through the Treason of his followers the whole Kingdom devolveth unto David WHen Ishboseth Sauls Son Hedio Ruffinus cap. 2. had notice of Abners death he was much troubled not only that he was deprived of his near kinsman but also of so great a personage as had setled the Crown on his head 2 Sam. 4. 1 ad 6. Neither did he himself long time remain alive L after him but by the Sons of Jeremon Banaoth and Than he was Traiterously slain These two being Benjamites and of the chiefest Nobility amongst them contrived to make away Ishboseth and thereby obtain a great reward from David supposing that such an act would merit the chiefest place and dignity in the Army For which cause finding Ishboseth alone in his house about mid-day laid on his bed and asleep and unattended by any
house in Jerusalem Now when F the King had taken the City he joyned the Cittadel unto it and having walled them abouâ— How Jerusalem was called Solyma and what mention Homer made thereof the gave the government thereof to Joab This King was the first that drove the Jebusites out of Jerusalem and called the same by his name For from the time of Abraham our forefather it was called Solyma neither want there some that infer that Homer under that name intendeth Jerusalem For in the Hebrew tongue Solyma is as much as to say The years since Joshuas conquest to this time 515. Orphant a Jebusite friend to David Security All the time since the war made by Joshuah against the Canaanites and since the division of the Countrey during all which time the Israelites could not drive the Canaanites out of Jerusalem until David took the same by force were five hundred and fifteen years But I must not forget one Orphan a rich man amongst the Jebusites who because he was well affected towards the Hebrews was not put to death G at the taking of Jerusalem 2 Kings 24. but was much honoured by the King David espoused other Wives besides those which he had Davids Sons born in Jerusalem and took many Concubines by them he had eleven Sons whose names are these which follow Amnael Seba Nathan Soloman Jaber Eliel Phalna Ennapha Jenaah Eliphal and a Daughter called Thamar Nine of these were H begotten of his Wives and the two last were the Sons of Concubines But Thamar was Absalons Sister by the same Father and Mother CHAP. IV. David assailed by the Philistines obtaineth a great victory aaginst them near Jerusalem NOw when the Philistines knew that the Hebrews had created David King they led forth their Army against him towards Jerusalem 2 Sam. 5. 18. ad finem where encamping themselves in I the valley of the Giants which is a place not far from the City they in that place expected the encounter Hedio Ruffinus cap. 4. But the King of the Hebrews who was wont to do nothing inconsiderately commanded the High Priest to ask counsel of God what success the War should have who after he had informed him that God favored their designes he presently drew out his Army against the Enemy and giving the battel he suddenly assailed the Enemies The Philistines moving War against David are partly slain or put to flight slaying many of them he put the rest to flight But let no man suspect that the Army of the Philistines was either small in number or weak in courage which at that time assailed the Hebrews because they were easily overcome without their performing any memorable action For all Syria Phenicia and the other Warlike Nations beyond them were confederates with them The Philistines invaded the Hebrews with a mighty army gathered out of sundry nations in this War which was the cause that notwithstanding they were so many times overcome and lost many thousands of men that they desisted K not to assail the Hebrews with greater force having been defeated in the battel beforementioned yet they reinforced their Army and encamped in the same place Whereupon David again required of God what the issue of this battel should be and the High Priest told him that he should encamp in the Forrest called Tears because it was not far off from the Enemies Camp and that he should not depart from thence neither make any attempt upon them before the trees should shake without any agitation of the wind Whereupon as soon as the trees shook and the time which God had appointed was come without any delay he marched out with an assurance of returning victorious For the squadrons of the Enemy were disordered The Philistines flight and incontinently betook themselves L to flight being pursued unto the City of Gerar which is a frontire-town of their Countrey their Camp was plundred and in it were found great riches and amongst other things their gods which broken to pieces by the Israelites The battel being ended it seemed good unto David by the counsel of the Elders and Colonels over thousands that all the flower of their youth should be assembled from all the parts of the Countrey 2 Sam. 6. 1 ad 5. every one according to his Tribe Davids commands as touching the transportation of the Ark. And that the Priests and Levites should rapair to Cariathiarim and bring from the Ark of God and convey it to Jerusalem to the end that when it should be there the service of God might for the future be celebrated in that place and other sacrifices and honours agreeable to the divine Majesty be performed Which if Saul had religiously observed M he had not fallen into those misfortunes which at the same time deprived him of his Crown and his life Now when all the people were assembled according as it was appointed the King himself also assisted at the removal of the Ark which being carried by the Priests out of Aminidabs house they laid it upon a new Wain drawn by Oxen and commited the conduct of it to their Brethren and their Children The King marched foremost and after him all his people praising God and singing Psalms and Hymns to the sound of the Trumpets and Cymbals v. 6 7 8 9. and several sorts of Instruments Oza stretching out his hand to stay the Ark is suddenly strucken dead and in this manner conducted they the Ark into Jerusalem But when they were come to the threshing floor of Childon Oza died thorow the wrath of God for the Oxen stumbling that drew the Chariot and the Ark tottering he stretched out his hand to hold it up but being no Priest God struck him dead because he presumed to touch N the Ark. The King and the people were much troubled at the death of Oza and the place where he died is called to this day v. 10 11. Oza's Striking David fearing lest if he should carry the Ark with him into the City David placeth the ark in Obed-Edoms house who prospereth there-through in all felicity the like misfortune might attend him that had befallen Oza who died because he only stretched out his hand he carried it not with him into the City but commanded that it should be left in the possession of one called Obed by descent a Levite a good and vertuous man where it remained for three months space during which time his house was blessed with all worldly happiness The King being informed of the success of Obed v. 12. who of a poor man was suddenly become very rich so that all men had their eyes upon him The Ark transported into Davids house and placed in a Tabernacle and some envied him he assured himself that no inconvenience would befall him if he should take the Ark to Jerusalem It was carried O by the Priests and seven quires of
his protestation lest being deceived he should fall into some remediless inconveniency Nahas King of the Ammonites supposing that his Governors spake nothing but truth unworthily affronted the Ambassadors that were sent unto him for causing the half of C their Beards to be shaven close by the chin and cutting away the half of their Vestments he sent them back again v. 5. 6. Which when David saw he was much displeased and protested that he would not suffer that injury so easily to be digested David is sore displeased with the injury offered to his Ambassadors intending revenge but that he would make War on the Ammonites and revenge those indignities that were offered to his Ambassadors The Friends and Governors of Nahas considering how they had violated and broken the Peace and how for that occasion they deserved to be punished prepared for that War and sent a thousand talents to Syrus King of Mesopotamia desiring him that he would be their confederate in that War The Ammonites hire their confederates and prepare for the War against David and receive their pay they requested the like of Subas these Kings had 20000 footmen in pay They hired also with their mony the King of the Countrey called Michas and the fourth called Istob which two brought D with them twelve thousand Men. CHAP. VII How David overcame the Mesopotamians BUt David being nothing discouraged v. 7 8. either with the confederacy or force of the Ammonites David sendeth out Joab with the choisest flower of his Army against the Ammonites but trusting in God since he was satisfied that his cause was just persisted to the revenge of those outrages which he had received from them Having therefore mustered under Joab the flower of his whole Army he commanded him to depart and make War upon them who came and incamped himself before their chief City E called Aramath which when the Enemies perceived they came forth and ranged themselves in battel not in one body but two several parties For their confederates and allies were incamped apart in the Plain and the Ammonites stood in battle-array near unto their City gate to make head against the Hebrews Joab perceiving this took this course Joab and Abisaies Armies that he might meet them without any disadvantage for he chose out the ablest and stoutest of his men to serve under him against Syrus v. 9 10 11. and the other Kings confederate with him and gave the rest to his brother Abisai commanding him to oppose himself against the Ammonites whilest he charged the rest and appointing him that if he perceived that the Syrians were stronger than he and did put him to the worst that he should come to succour him promising to do the like if he perceived him to be oppressed F by the Ammonites When therefore he had exhorted his Brother to behave himself valiantly he sent him before to charge the Ammonites and he on the other side assailed the Syrians who valiantly resisted him for a little space but Joab having slain many of them constrained them at length to turn their backs Which when the Ammonites perceived who were afraid of Abisai and his people retreated likewise v. 12 13 14. and following the example of their allies Joabs victory they took their flight into the City By which means Joab having defeated his Enemies returned in triumph and with victory unto the King to Jerusalem Yet were not the Ammonites wholly weakned by this loss for although they had by experience a certain knowledg that the Hebrews were stronger than themselves yet would G they by no means hearken to a Peace They sent unto Chalama King of the Syrians on the other side of Euphrates whose confederacy they attained by bribes and huge sums of money This King had one called Sobac for his Lieutenant-General and under him fourscore thousand foot The year of the Woâ—ld 2910. before Christ's Nativity 1540. and ten thousand horse David understanding that the Ammonitâ—s drew H to an head and intended to assault him again he surceased to send his Lieutenants but went himself in Person and meeting them he overcame them and killed fourty thousand of their Foot and seven thousand Horse he hurt Sobac also Chalamas Lieutenant so that he died of his wounds Hereupon the Mesopotamians yielded themselves unto David 15 16 17 18 19. and gave him many great and magnificent Presents He therefore by reason of the Winter The Syrians with the Ammonites assembled themselves against David retired to Jerusalem but at the Spring he sent out his Lieutenant Ioab once more to make War upon the Ammonites who overrunning their Countrey utterly spoiled it and shut them up in Aramath their principal City which he besieged and took About this time it so fell out that David notwithstanding he were a just man and one that feared God The Mesopotamians submit themselves to David and an exact observer of all the Laws and ordinances of his forefathers I fell into a great sin and offended God For as he walked on the top of his Royal Palace in the evening he discovered a Woman of incomparable Beauty whose name was Bethsabe bathing her self Aramath besieged His passion became forthwith so impetuous that he could not resist it whereupon he sent for her and kept her with him till she conceived She desired him to bethink himself of some means whereby her shame might be concealed Hedro Ruffinus chap. 7. and her life which was in hazard 2 Sam. 11. 1 2 3 4 c. by the Law for her Adultery might be preserved Who thereupon sent for Vrias Bethsabes Husband and one of Joabs Captains who at that time was at the siege of Aramath and enquired of him upon his arrival touching the state of the siege Davids adultery and of the Army who answering him that all things were fallen out according to his wish v 5. David took a part of his own supper and gave it him Bethsabe certifieth the King that she is with child willing him K to repair unto his own house and repose himself with his Wife But Vrias slept among his fellow-souldiers near unto the person of the King Which when David understood he asked him wherefore he repaired not to his own house v. 6 7 8. according to the custome of Husbands that had been long absent David sendeth for Urias and willeth him to repair home unto his Wife which he doth not and why he visited not his Wife from whom he had been so long parted Vrias replied That it became him not either to repose or take pleasure with his Wife whilest his companions and General lay upon the ground in the Enemies Countrey Which said David commanded him to sojourn there all the day long to the end that on the next morrow he might send him back again to Joab That night the King invited him to supper
suffer an open shame for the sin he had committed in secret Moreover said he the son which thou shalt have by her shall shortly die After the had King received this message v. 13. 14. he was troubled David confesseth his sin and obtaineth pardon at Gods hands and wept confessing that he had done wickedly for before this time he had always feared God and had never in his life offended him but in the case of Vria whereupon after his submission God was E appeased and took compassion of him promising him to continue both his life and Kingdom v. 15 16 17 18. and that he would be no more displeased with him if he repented him of the sin he had committed David fasteth seven dayes lamenting and mourning for his Son After Nathan had declared these things unto David he departed unto his own house But God according to the word of the Prophet inflicted a grievous sickness on the infant that was born by Bethsabe for which cause the King was troubled and for seven days space would eat no meat although he was earnestly pressed thereunto by his Servants He put on likewise a mourning habit and cloathed himself with Sackcloth beseeching God that it would please him to grant him the childs life But when the infant was deceased about the seventh day of his sickness v. 20 21. his servants durst not let him know it supposing that if it should come unto his ear David being certified that the child was dead ariseth and washing taketh sustenance he would the more obstinately abstain from eating F and his health would be indangered by his inordinate grief considering he had so vehemently been afflicted for his sickness But the King perceiving that his Servants were troubled and that they concealed something from him and gathering thereby that his Son was dead he called unto him one of his offices who certifying him of the truth he arose and washed himself v. 21 22. and changed his rayment and presented himself before the Tabernacle of God David yieldeth a reason why during the childs life he fasted and why being dead he took refection and commanded that they should bring him meat that he might eat Whereat his friends and Servants wondred and besought him that they might know the cause he answered while the child was alive and I had hope of his recovery I omited no means whereby I might move God to mercy but now after he is dead it were in vain for me to spend my self with unnecessary grief Which when they heard they G approved the wisdom of the King v. 24. After this Bethsabe his Wife brought him a second Son who was called Solomon Solomon was born by Bethsabe Mean while Joab closely besieged the Ammonites and cut off their water and supplies of Provision so that they were nigh famished for want of Victuals The year of the World 2816. before Christ's Nativity 1040. for they had only one little spring so that they feared lest it would be suddenly H dry He therefore wrote unto the King and certified him of the state of the City and exhorted him to come in person and be present at the taking of it to the intent that he might have the honour of taking the Town The King Joab by letters solliciteth the King to come to the surprisal of Rabatha understanding what Joab had written commended his affection and fidelity and taking with him all the forces which he had he came to the taking in of Rabatha which being carried by force and the plunder given to his Soldiers he reserved for himself the Crown of the King of the Ammonites weighing a talent of Gold in the midst whereof was enchased a Sardonyx of great value v. 27. ad finem which David wore upon his head He found likewise in that City divers spoils of great price David surprizing Rabatha by force giveth it for a prey to his Souldiers but the inhabitants he put to the Sword and did the like in all the Cities of the Ammonites which he took by force But after I the King was returned unto Jerusalem a great misfortune befell his family upon this occasion He had a Daughter which was a Virgin fair and beautiful and surpassed all other women in perfections Hedio Ruffinus chap. 8. whose name was Thamar born of the same Mother with Absolon Of her Amnon the eldest Son of David became enamoured and because he could not enjoy her at his pleasure 2 Sâ—â— 13. 1. ad 19. he grew so melancholy that his body dryed up and his colour changed through grief A certain cousin and friend of his called Jonathan perceiving his passion and observing every day how Amnons beauty and strength decayed came unto him and asked him the cause thereof alledging that that indisposition of his seemed to proceed from some amorous affection Jonathan counselled Amnon how he might injoy his love Which when Amnon confessed and how he was in love with his Sister by the Fathers side Jonathan suggested to him the K means how to compass his desires for he persuaded him to counterfeit himself sick and that if his Father came to visit him he should desire him to send his sister to attend him by which means he should easily be delivered of his sickness This counsel of his was plausible in Amnons ears who presently counterfeited a sickness and laid him down on his Bed as Jonathan had advised him and when David came to visit him he desired him to send his Sister unto him When she came he prayed her that with her own hands she would make some Cakes for him because they would the more content him if they were of her own making wherefore she in her Brothers presence tempered the flower and made certain Cakes and fried them in the Pan and presented them unto him but he tasted them not but commanded all his Servants to retire out of his lodging because L he intended to take his rest without noise or trouble v. 13. As soon as this commandment of his was performed Amnon persuadeth his Sister to submit to his lust he prayed his sister to bring the Meat into his inner Chamber He followed her and discovering his passion began to offer violence But the Virgin crying out endeavoured what she could to disswade him from an action so sinful and dishonourable to their family Amnon notwithstanding his Sisters resist Violateth her or if he had not the power to resist the same she advised him to require her at his Fathers hands and not to take her honour from her by force But he inraged with love neglected all these sayings and violated her notwithstanding all her resistance And as soon as he he had satisfied his lustfull desire he hated her and commanded her to arise and depart She answered that this second outrage was more hainous than the former for that
unfeigned Friend whom when he beheld with his Garments rent with ashes on his Head and lamenting the unhappy change which he beheld David comforted him and exhorted him O not to be discouraged and besought him to return unto Absalom under colour that he had forsaken his part where diligently prying into his secrets he might oppose himself A against Achitophels counsels The year of the World 2920. before Christ's Nativity 1044. because he could not do him so considerable service in attending on him as he might in staying with Absalon Chusai being after this manner persuaded by David returned back to Jerusalem where presently after he met with Absalon who repaired thither In the mean time David marching onward a little further chanced to meet with Siba Mephibosheths Servant and Purveyor of all those Goods which David had given him 2 Sam. 16. 1 ad 5. for he was Jonathans Son who was the Son of Saul This Man drave before him two Asses loaden with Victuals which he presented to David and his company Siba accusing his master wrongfully is made owner of his riches to refresh themselves and being demanded Where he had left Mephibosheth In Jerusalem said he where he expecteth to be chosen King through the occasion of those troubles that have hapned and in memory of the benefits that divers men had B received at Sauls hands David displeased with this false report gave Siba all those riches which he had confer'd upon Mephibosheth in times past judging him more worthy of the same than Mephibosheth Wherewith Siba was very well contented When David drew near unto a place which is called Bachor Ver. 5 ad 9. a Kinsman of Sauls Simei's reviling of David called Simei the Son of Gera came out against him and cast stones at him and reviled him and the more Davids friends invironed and defended him the more obstinately persevered he in his reproofs and scandalous railings calling him Murtherer and Captain of the wicked charging him like an execrable Man to get him out of the Kingdom giving God thanks for that he had deprived him of his Kingdom by the means of his own son as a punishment for those Crimes which he had committed against his own Master C This his licentiousness moved all Davids followers to displeasure so that all of them were ready to revenge them on Simei and amongst the rest Abisai would have slain him Ver. 9 ad 15. but David would not permit him but commanded him to forbear For fear said he least to our present miseries we annex a further and new occasion David forbiddeth to kill Simei Forasmuch as concerneth my self I set light by this mad Dog and refer the matter to God who hath permitted him to be thus desperately bent against us Neither is it to be wondred at that I suffer my self to be thus abused by him sith mine own son is so wicked that he dareth openly declare himself my mortal enemy but God through his goodness will at length look upon us with an eye of mercy and his justice will certainly confound all those that have conspired to my ruine He therefore walked onward on his way not caring what Simei said who ran on the other side D of the Mountain railing and reviling him When David was arrived on the bank of Jordan he mustered and refreshed his Army who were wearied with their march mean while Absalon entring Jerusalem with Achitophel his Counseller Ver. 16 17 18. was saluted and applauded by the concourse of the people Chusai under a colour offereth his service to Absalon and amongst the rest Davids friend came unto him who prostrated himself before Absalons feet wishing him a long and happy Reign Absalon asked how it came to pass that he who was reputed to be one of Davids most intimate friends and esteemed alwayes to be most loyal and faithful unto him should at that time when occasion served to express his loyalty abandon him and submit himself to his enemy To whom Chusai answered readily That it became him to follow God and the good will of the people E Since therefore said he my Sovereign that both these are on your side it concerneth me to follow you because you have received the Kingdom from God If therefore you shall think fit to account me amongst your friends I will approve unto you my loyalty and affection in like manner as to your knowledge I have done unto your father who ought not to be displeased at that which hath hapned since the Kingdom is not removed into another house but remaineth in his own family because he who was his son received the same By these words he reconciled himself to Absalom Ver. 20 21 22. and removed all suspition Hereupon Achitophel was sent for to consult about their affairs in hand Achitophel persuadeth Absalon to lie with his fathers concubines who advised him to abuse all his fathers Concubines and make them his own For said he from that time forward the people will believe that you and he will never he reconciled and will be more ready to bear Arms and oppose your father F for your sake For hitherto said he they have unwillingly professed themselves to be his Enemies suspecting least a peace should be concluded betwixt the father and the son Absalom giving heed to this advice caused a Tent or Royal Pavilion to be pitched in the sight of all the people whereinto he entred and enjoyed his fathers Concubines And thus was accomplished what was foretold by Nathan the Prophet CHAP. IX Absalon's War against his Father 2 Sam. 17. 1. ad 14. his death and the discomfiture of his Army G WHen Absalon had done that which Achitophel had advis'd him Achitophels counsel persuading Absalon to pursue David he requested him once more to counsel him concerning that War which he had undertaken against his Father Chusai's opposition who required 10000 chosen Men by whose assistance he promised to kill David and to bring all that were with him under his subjection assuring him that Absalon's Kingdom would be then established The year of the World 2816 before Christ's Nativity 1040. when Davids head was cut off from his H shoulders This counsel pleased Absalon whereupon he sent for Chusai who was the chiefest amongst Davids friends for so David himself had termed him to whom he discovered the advice which Achitophel had given him and required him to give his opinion what he thought thereof who knowing very well that if Achitophels counsel were followed David would be in danger to be surprized and slain enforced all his arguments and counsels to the contrary For said he Sir you are sufficiently informed both what your Fathers valor is and their virtue that accompany him who hath fought many Battels and hath returned victorious over all his enemies It is not to be doubted but that he is at this present encamped in
the field For he is well exercised in leading Armies to prevent any stratagems I whereby the enemy may injure him and about the evening he hath perhaps left a party of his men in some straights or placed them in ambush behind some Rock and if our men shall assail him his Soldiers will by little and little retire and afterward recovering courage by reason that the King shall be near unto them they will charge us afresh and during the encounter your father will suddenly break out of his ambush and encourage his own men and discomfort yours wisely therefore examine mine advice and if you find that it be good neglect that which Achitophel hath given you Therefore in my opinion without following the advice of Achitophel your Majesty ought to gather together all your Forces and to take the command of them your self without committing them to the conduct of any other and by this means you may assuredly expect to have an easie victory over him if you assail him in the open field because he is accompanied with a very few men and your self are attended by many thousands who K will be very forward to express their affection towards you at the beginning of your Reign whereby you may easily rid you of your enemy Ver. 14. And if so be your father shut himself up in any City Chusai's counsel accepted Achitophels rejected we may easily take the same by Mines and Engines This advice of his seemed to be better than that of Achitophels so that Absalon accepted it For it was God that put this into his heart to neglect Achitophels and respect Chusai 's counsel Now when Chusai had thus prevailed he presently went to the High Priests Sadoc and Abiathar acquainting them with Achitophels designs and how he had contradicted him finally how his opinion had taken place giving them in charge to send private intelligence unto David thereof and to inform him of his sons resolution wishing him with all speed to pass over the River of Jordan lest Absalon being informed of his abode L in that place should make haste and pursue him and overtake him before he might recover a place of security The High Priests before-hand Ver. 15 16. had provided that their sons should lie hid without the City Sadoc and Abiathars sons sent unto David on purpose that they might be sent unto David to inform him how affairs went They therefore sent a trusty servant unto their sons who brought them news of Absalons intentions with express commandment to inform the King thereof with all speed who presently upon this intelligence like good and faithful ministers posted away to report their fathers message unto the King But scarcely had they travelled two furlongs Ver. 17 18 ad 22. when certain Horsemen discover'd them M and brought news thereof unto Absalon who presently sent out Scouts to apprehend them The High Priests sons being pursued are hidden by a Woman in a Pit which when the children of the High Priest perceived they forsook the High-way and retired into a certain Village near unto Jerusalem which is called Bocchura where they besought a certain Woman to hide them and shut them in some place of security who let them down into a Well and covered the mouth thereof with bundles of Wooll She being demanded by those that pursued them Whether she saw them denied the same saying That as soon as she had given them drink they departed from her presently assuring them that if they presently pursued them they might easily apprehend them But after they had a long time followed Ver. 22. and could not find them David informed of Absalons deliberation passeth himself and his whole Army over Jordan by night they returned from whence they came The Woman perceiving that they were departed and that there was no cause of fear lest the young men should be surprized she drew them out of the Pit and N set them on their way who with as great speed as was possible repaired unto David and declared unto him Absalons designs Hereupon David passed the River Jordan with all his men and although it were night he was not discouraged by the darkness But Achitophel seeing that his counsel was rejected Ver. 23. took his Horse and went unto his Country of Gelmone Achitophel perceiving his counsel was despised hung himself there calling together his houshold servants he related unto them what advice he had given Absalon which since he had not accepted he told them that they should shortly find that he was a lost man and that David would be victorious and return into his Kingdom It is better therefore said he for me as it becometh a valiant man to depart out of this life than to submit my self to Davids punishment for having joined my self unto Absalon and giving him counsel This said he went into the most private O part of his House and hung himself being both his own Judge and Executioner after which his kinsmen cut him down and buried him But David having past Jordan came A and encamped in a strong City The year of the World 2940. before Christ's Nativity 7300. the best fortified in that Countrey there was he kindly entertained by all the Noblemen of that Countrey partly moved thereunto by the mans present necessity partly through the reverence of his former felicity The chief of these were Berzillai the Galaadite and Siphar the Governor of the Province of the Ammonites Ver. 24. ad fin and Machir the chief of the Countrey of Galaad who supplied David and his Army with whatsoever they wanted David câ—meth to Mahanaim where he is royally entertained by the Peers so that they lacked neither beds nor bread nor flesh but were plentifully stored with all things They that were sick and wearied also wanted nothing that either might serve for their repose or refection In this state remained he But Absalon assembled a great multitude of people to make War upon his father Hedio Ruffinus cap. 10. and after he had passed Jordan he pitched his Tents near unto his fathers within B the Countrey of Galaad and made Amasa General of his Army opposing him against Joab his cousin Ver. 24. for Amasa was the son of Jothar and Abigal the sister of Sarvia the mother of Joab Absalon passeth over Jordan both of them sisters unto David When David had mustered and numbered his Forces and found that he had 40000 fighting men it was thought sit to put it forthwith to a battel and not to expect till Absalon should attack him He therefore appointed Colonels over thousands and divided them into three squadrons 2 Sam. 18. 1 2. the one of which he gave to Joab the second to Abisai his brother and the third to Ethei his familiar friend who was of the City of Geth The division of Davids Army In this battle his friends would not
permit him to be present Ver. 3. and that upon good consideration for they said That if they should be defeated in his company Davids friends dissuade his presence in the battel they should utterly lose all hope but if one squadron C should be overcome the rest might have recourse unto him who might unite and reinforce the rather for that the enemies would alwayes think it likely that he had some other recruits with him This counsel pleased him for which cause he remained within the City But at such time as he sent out his friends unto the battel he besought them that in remembrance of all the benefits and favors he had bestowed on them they would both shew themselves couragious in the fight Ver. 4 5. and that having obtained the victory David commandeth them to spare his son they would spare his son for fear least his death should increase and redouble his discontents Thus praying God to give them victory he dismissed them to the battel But when Joab had placed his Army right over against the enemy and had extended them on the Plain having a Wood upon their backs Absalon also drew out his Army against him so that D encountring one another Ver. 6 7. they performed many notable actions on both parts the one hazarding themselves in all dangers The battel betwixt Joab and Absalon and employing all their affections to the intent that David might recover his Kingdom the others neither refusing to do or endure any thing so that Absalon might not be deprived or exposed to his fathers punishment and displeasure for his insolent attempt Besides that they held it an indignity for them that being so great in number as they were they should be overcome by such a handful of people as followed Joab thinking it an utter disgrace unto them that being so many thousands of them in Arms they should be discomfited by Davids followers But Joab and his men being more skilful and trained in feats of Arms than the rest Ver. 8 9. discomfited and brake Absolons Army The flight and overthrow of Absalons Army so that they fled through Woods and into strong E places Davids Soldiers pursuing after them took some and slew others so that both in flight and fight a great number of them were put to the Sword for there fell that day about 20000 Men. But all Davids Troops freshly set upon Absalon who was easily known by his beauty and stature he fearing to be surprized by his enemies mounted upon a swift Mule and fled in great haste But by the swift motion of his body his locks being scattered abroad his bush of Hair was intangled in a thick and branchy Tree where he hung after a strange manner and his Mule ran onward with great swiftness as if she had as yet born her master on her back but he hanging by the Hair amidst the branches suddenly fell into his enemies hands This when a certain Soldier perceived he brought news thereof unto Joab who promised him to give him 50 sicles if he would kill him F The Soldier answered That if he would give him 2000 he would not commit such a murther on the son of his Sovereign the rather for that in the presence of them all David had requested them to spare him Hereupon Joab commanded him to shew him the place where he had seen Absalon hang who had no sooner discovered him but thrusting a Javelin to his heart he slew him A ver 9 ad 15. That done Joabs Esquires surrounded the Tree took him down Joab killeth Absalon and cast him into a deep Pit they overwhelmed him with stones so that in appearance it seemed to be a Tomb or Monument After this when Joab had sounded a retreat he withdrew his Soldiers from pursuit as thinking it unnatural for one Countrey-man to imbrue his hands in the blood of another Absalon had erected in the Royal Valley Ver. 17 18. two furlongs distant from Jerusalem a Marble Pillar with an Inscription upon it to G the intent that if his Race should be extinct Absalons marble pillar his memory might be preserved by that Monument which he had erected Now he had 3 sons and a daughter called Thamar who was married to Roboam Davids Nephew and had by him a son called Abia who succeeded his father in the Kingdom of whom we shall speak more at large CHAP. X. H The happy state of David being restored unto his Kingdom The year of the World 2920. before Christ's Nativity 1044. AFter that Absalon was slain Ver. 21 ad 32. all the people returned privately to their own houses but Achimaas Chusai sent to certifie David of the victory the son of the High Priest Sadoc drew near unto Joab requiring his leave to repair unto David and to certifie him of the victory and how by Gods help and providence he had vanquished his enemies This did the General deny him telling him That it was not convenient that he who heretofore was wont to bring joyful news should now certifie the King of his sons death He therefore commanded him to stay and calling Chusai to his presence he gave him commission to certifie the King of that I which he had seen Achimaas requested him the second time that he would suffer him to go promising him that he would make no mention but of the victory and that as touching Absalons death he would not utter any thing whereupon he dismissed him also who choosing the shorter way outstripped Chusai Now as David sate in the gate of the City expecting some messenger that might certifie him of the success of the battel one of the Sentinels perceiving Achimaas that came running hastily and not being able to distinguish who it was told David that he saw a messenger coming towards him who answered that it was some one that brought joyful news Anon after he told him that a certain other messenger followed to whom David answered likewise that it was one that brought glad tydings And when the Watchman perceived that it was Achimaas K Sadoc the High Priests son and that he was near at hand he ran first of all and certified David Ver. 33. who was very glad thereof saying That he brought some good and desirable news touching the event of the battel David hearing of Absalons death by Chusai grievously bewaileth him and no sooner had the King spoken the word but Achimaas entred and fell down upon his face before David to whom he reported that his Army had the victory Being afterwards demanded what was become of Absalon He answered That he incontinently departed from the Camp as soon as the enemies were put to flight but that a great number of Soldiers pursued Absalon and further then that he knew nothing because by Joabs commandment he was speedily sent away to bring tydings of the victory When Chusai was come and had humbled
Ruffinus chap 15. that notwithstanding the many coverings and clothes they laid upon him C yet could he not be warmed it was the advice of his Physitians that one of the fairest Virgins that was in the Countrey should be chosen to lie with the King 1 King 1. 1 2 3 4. because by this means she might warm his chill limbs and comfort his decaying heat David groweth old and numb Whereupon after search made they found out a Damsel called Abisag which surpassed all other in beauty Abisag waâ—meth him who slept with him and warmed him for by reason of his age he was unable to have the use of a woman But of this Virgin hereafter we shall make furthermention The fourth Son of David was a goodly tall young man v. 5. called Adonias the Son of Aegistha Adonias affecteth the Kingdom who resembling Absalon in complection and ambition designed to make himself King and amongst his ordinary discourses which he used to his friends he said that the succession to the Crown belonged of right unto him To this intent he D prepared many Chariots and Horses and fifty men to attend him for his Guard His Father certified of these his proceedings reprooved him not nor crossed his designs nor demanded any account of his actions Joab the General and the High priest Abiathar were ingaged on his side and stood firm to his interest but they that opposed him were the High Priest Sadoc and the Prophet Nathan and Benaia the Captain of the Guard with Simei Davids friend besides all other the Valiant men at Arms. Whereas therefore Adonias made a banquet without the City and in the Suburbs near unto the Fountain of the Park-Royal he invited all his Brethren unto the same except Solomon and took with him Joab and Abiathar v. 11 ad 29. with the Governours of the Tribe of Juda but as touching Sadoc Bethsaba by Nathans persuasion certifieth David of Adonias usurpation the Prophet Nathan Benaia and the rest of the contrary party he called them not E unto the banquet This did the Prophet Nathan tell to Bethsabe Solomons mother certifying her that Adonias was made King without the knowledge of David advising her both to have care of her own security and the state and Majesty of her Son who by reason of Adonias usurpation was like to be supplanted wishing her in person to certifie the King thereof and further promising that while she debated these things with the King he would come in the mean while and confirm that which he had said Bethsabe being thus perswaded by Nathan came unto the King and humbling herself before him and afterwards desiring leave to speak unto him she informed him of all those things that had hapned according as she had been advised by the Prophet particularly giving him an account of the banquet which Adonias had made and what guests he had F invited namely Abiathar and Joab with the rest of his Sons except Solomon and his particular friends urging this furthermore that the people expected who it should be whom David would nominate to succeed him for which cause she earnestly besought David that he would provide that he who should succeed him in the Government should neither seek her blood nor the death of her Son Solomon Whilest Bethsabe discoursed after this manner the King had notice that Nathan attended to speak with him Whereupon David commanded that he should be called in and as soon as he was entered he asked the King if that day he had appointed Adonias to govern and succeed in the kingdom after him for that said he he hath made a sumptuous feast whereunto he hath invited all thy Sons but Solomon thither also hath he called Joab where after the great cheer and banqueting G they have proclaimed and cryed Long live the King Adonias Furthermore said he he hath neither invited me nor the High-Priest Sadoc nor the Captain of the Guard Banaiaâ— It therefore behooveth thee to let us know if this be done by thy approbation and allowance As soon as Nathan had made an end of his speech The year of the World 2931. before Christ's Nativity 1033. David comanded that Bethsabe should H be called in who had retired out of the Kings chamber at such time as the Prophet entered in As soon as Bethsabe re-entred the chamber David said unto her I swear unto thee by the great God that thy Son Solomon shall raign after me according as before this time I have already sworn unto thee and he it is that shall sit upon my throne yea even this present day v. 30. Upon these words Bethsabe humbled herself and besought God to grant the King long life The kingdom is confirmed to Solomon by an oaâ—h Whereupon he called for Sadoc the high Priest and Banaia the Captain of the Guard and appointed them to take the Prophet Nathan with them and all the men at Arms that attended him in Court charging them to mount his Son Solomon upon his Royal Mule upon which only the King was wont to ride and to conduct him out of the City near unto the Fountain of Gehon in which place after they had I anointed him with holy oyle he willed them to proclaim Solomon King commanding the High Priest Sadoc and the Prophet Nathan to see his will performed charging those that followed him throw the City with sound of Trumpet and a loud voyce to cry out that Solomon was seted for ever in his fathers throne to the intent that all the people might understand that by his Fathers consent he was declared King And calling Solomon unto him v. 33 ad 40. he gave him instructions by which he might with justice and integrity govern the Tribe of Juda and the rest of the Israelites Solomon is annointed King and placed in his Fathers Throne After this Banaia besought God that it would please him to be favourable unto Solomon and with all expedition Solomon was mounted upon the Kings Mule and conducted out of the City near unto the fountain where after he had been anointed with oyle they brought him back again into K the City with great joy and applause wishing him a long and prosperous government then reconducting him to the Kings Palace they placed him on his Throne and the people generally gave themselves over to feasting and mirth and to sport and rejoyce with dances and instruments of musick so that by reason of the multitude of instruments not only the air resounded but the earth also seemed in a manner to be moved therewith So that Adonias and they that banqueted with him hearing the noise were all of them troubled and Joab in particular said that those tunes and trumpettings did no wayes please him Whilest thus they sate at the banquet v. 40 41 ad 50. and every man thorow pensivenesse forbore to eat being distracted thorow variety of thoughts Jonathan
natures was he ignorant of neither had he omitted to search after their qualities in particular The Author in this place abuseth the gifts of God bestowed on Solâ—mon in extending them to those Arts which are forbidden by the express word of God and discoursed of them all and had knowledge of their several and secret properties He obtained also the knowledge of the Art of Magick for the profit and health of Men and the exorcising and casting out of Devils for he devised certain incantations whereby the diseased are cured and left the method of conjuration in writing whereby the Devils are enchanted and expelled so that never more they dare return And this kind of healing to this day is very usual amongst those of our Nation For I saw a certain private man amongst the Hebrews by M name Eleazar in the presence of Vespasian his Sons Tribunes and other Soldiers that cured divers that were possessed And the manner of his Cure was this He applied to the Nose of the Demoniack a Ring A Jew casteth out Devils under the Seal whereof was a root of those things that Solomon had declared which drew the Devil out of the Nostrils of the Sick as soon as he smelled the root and as soon as the Man was fallen he adjured him never more to return intermixing some mention of Solomon and rehearsing those Incantations that were invented by him After this the said Eleazar being desirous to shew unto them that were present the efficacy of his Art he set a Pot or Pitcher of water not far from the place where the possessed stood and commanded the Devil at such time as he forsook the Man to overturn N the Pot and thereby to give a sign unto those that stood by that he had forsaken the possessed which act of his manifestly declareth how great the science and wisdom of Solomon was For which cause I thought good in this place to make mention thereof that the worthy endowments of this King might be known unto all Men and how beloved of God he was 1 Kings 5. 1 ad 12. and how surpassing in all kinds of virtue When Hiram King of Tyre understood that Solomon succeeded his father in the Kingdom he was glad thereof Hiram's Ambassadors to Solomon for he was Davids friend for which cause he sent Messengers unto him to salute him and to congratulate his succession to the Crown by whom Solomon returned an answer in these terms Solomon to Hiram the King Know thou that my father having a great desire to build a O Temple unto God hath been hindred from performing it by the continual Wars and Troubles he hath had for he never took rest before he either had defeated his enemies or made them tributaries A unto him For mine own part I thank God for the peace which I possess and that by the means thereof I have opportunity according to mine own desire to build a Temple unto God for he it is that foretold my father that his house should be builded during my reign For which cause I pray you send some one of your skilfullest men with my servants to the mountain Libanus Ver. 6. to hew down trees in that place for the Sidonians are more skilful in hewing and preparing timber Solomon requireth Carpenters and workmen from Hiram than our people are and I will pay the Workmen according to your direction When Hiram had read this Letter he was very glad to peruse the Contents of the same and wrote back again unto him to this effect The King Hiram unto King Solomon Thou hast cause to thank God that he had delivered thy fathers Kingdom who was a wise and virtuous Prince into thy hands For which cause B since no news can come unto me more acceptable I will accomplish all that thou requestest for after I have caused a great quantity of Cedar and Cyprus wood to be cut down Ver. 7. ad 10. I will send it thee by Sea by my servants Hiram promiseth Solomon wood and instead thereof requireth corn whom I will command and furnish with convenient vessels of burthen to the end they may deliver the same in what place of thy Kingdom it shall best please thee that afterwards thy Subjects may transport them to Jerusalem And I desire that by way of exchange you would furnish us with Corn whereof we stand in need because we inhabit an Island The Copies are yet at this day kept not only by those of our Nation but also by the Tyrians so that if any man desire exactly to know what they be let him search the publick Records of the Tyrians and he shall find in them matters agreeing to that we have C said All which I say to the end the Readers might be assured that I go not beyond the truth in any sort and that I insert not in this History matters that are meerly apparent and deceitful and only fashioned for delight neither fear I that any man shall examine my Writings nor desire I likewise that every Man give credit at the first sight to the same or that I be held blameless in suffering my self any wayes to vary or improperly dilate ought in this History The truth of Josephus History but contrariwise if I cannot approve the truth by sufficient testimonies I desire not to be allowed As soon as Solomon had received these Letters from the King of the Tyrians he praised his facility and benevolence and presently sent him that which he demanded Ver. 11. every year therefore he sent him two thousand measures of Wheat The King sendeth Hiram a great quantity of wheat oyl and wine and two thousand Baths of Oyl and two thousand Baths of Wine each D Bath containing about 72 Quarts From that time forward the friendship betwixt Hiram and Solomon increased more and more so that both of them protested that it should continue for ever The King ordered that thirty thousand Workmen should be provided whom he gave in charge to work continually alotting to each man his part He ordained that ten thousand of them should cut wood in Libanus for the space of one Month Ver. 14. and that then they should rest two Months The order of the Carpenters in Libanus returning every man unto his own dwelling place until such time as the twenty thousand had in their turn accomplished the task in the time that was prefixed unto them and then the first ten thousand renewed their work and followed the same in the fourth month Adoram was constituted Superintendent over them Besides these there were Seventy thousand Men appointed E to carry stones and wood Ver. 15. ad fin who were strangers in that Countrey according to the commandment of David The order of the Masons and other workmen There were fourscore thousand Hewers of stone over which were 3200 Commissaries these had the King commanded to cut the greatest
Afterwards calling unto them a certain Man that could cunningly play upon Instruments for so had the Prophet commanded whil'st he sung Elizeus was fill'd with the Spirit of God and enjoined the Kings to make certain Trenches in the Channel of the River Ver. 17. For said he you shall see the River full of water Elizeus fore-prophesieth store of water and their victory without either wind cloud or rain so that both the whole Army and all their Cattel shall be saved and sufficiently sustained and God will not only bestow these benefits on you but will give you the upper hand of your Enemies also and you shall surprize the fairest and strongest Cities of the Moabites and you shall cut down their Trees ruinate I their Countrey and fill up their Fountains and Rivers When the Prophet had spoken thus the next day before Sun-rise the River flowed abundantly with water for three days journey off Ver. 22 23. God had suffered a very violent rain to fall in Idumaea so that both the Soldiers and their Horses were sufficiently refreshed and watered A wonderful blindness of the Enemy grounded on the redness of the water that flowed When the Moabites were informed that the three Kings came out against them and took their way thorow the Desart their King assembled his Army and commanded them to keep the passage of the Mountains to the end they might hinder the Enemy from entering their Countrey unawares But beholding about the Sun-rise that the water of the River was blood-red for at that time it arose in the Countrey of Moab and at this hour the water is red they conceived a false opinion that the three Kings being pressed by thirst had K slain one another and that the River flowed with their blood Being in this sort seduced with this imagination they besought the King to give them leave to gather their Enemies spoils which when they had obtained they altogether inconsiderately marched forth as if to a Prey already prepar'd for them and came unto the Kings Camps with hope to find no Man to resist them But their hope deceived them for their Enemies environed them round about and some of them were cut in pieces the rest turned their backs and fled towards their own Countrey and the three Kings entering into the Territories of the Moabites destroyed thier Cities pillaged the Countrey broke down their Inclosures filling them with stones and mud taken out of the River cut down their fairest Trees stopped up the sources of their Waters and levelled their Walls with the L ground The King of the Moabites himself Ver. 24. seeing himself pursued and besieged and that his City was in danger to be taken by force The victory of the Hebrews against the Moabites sallied out very valiantly with 700 Men hoping by the swiftness of his Horse to break thorow the Israelites Camp on that side where he thought it was least guarded Which when he had attempted and could not execute Ver. 27. because he charged on that side which was best defended The King of the Moabites sacrificeth his own son he returned back again into the City and committed a desperate action for he took his eldest son who ought in right to succeed him in the kingdom and set him on the wall of the City and in the sight of all his Enemies offer'd him for a burnt-sacrifice unto God The Kings beholding this woful spectacle were moved with compassion and overcome with humanity left the siege and returned back again to their Countries After that Jehoshaphat M was returned into Jerusalem Jehoshaphats death he enjoyed a peaceable Government but lived not long after but dyed when he was 60 years old in the 25th year of his Reign and was magnificently buried in Jerusalem according as the Successor to Davids virtues and his kingdom ought to be interred CHAP. II. Joram obtaining the Kingdom of Jerusalem slayeth his brothers and his fathers friends JEhoshaphat King of Juda left behind him divers children the eldest of whom he appointed his Successor in the kingdom Joram Jehoshaphats son King of Jerusalem who was called Joram as his Uncle was who N was his Mothers Brother and Achabs Son lately King of Israel The King of the ten Tribes turning back unto Samaria kept with him the Prophet Elizeus whose actions I will here recite because they are notable and deserve to be registred in writing according as we have gathered them out of the Holy Scripture The widow of Obadiah who was sometime steward of Achabs house came unto him and told him That he was not ignorant that in that persecution wherein Jezabel sought to murther the Prophets her Husband saved one hundred of them for whose private maintenance he had borrowed much money of other men and that now being dead his Creditors strove to draw both her and her children into bondage 2 Kings 4. 1 ad 7. For which cause she besought him in consideration of this act to have compassion on her Elizeus commandeth the Widow to fill her empty vessels with oyl and to yield her some succor Hereupon Elizeus ask'd her If she had any thing O in her house she answer'd him That she had nothing but a very little oyl left her in an earthen Pot. Whereupon the Prophet commanded her to depart and to borrow divers empty vessels of her Neighbors that done he willed her to lock up her doors and to pour oyl into the vessels The year of the World 3050. before Christ's Nativity 924. because it was Gods pleasure to fill them all The Woman did according A as he had commanded her and all the vessels were found full so as none of them were empty whereof when she had certified the Prophet he advised her to go and sell her oyl and pay her Debts and when all was paid he assured her that there would be some remainder that might serve to sustain both her and her children By this means Elizeus discharged the Widow of her Debts 2 Kings 6. 9 ad 12. and that trouble which her Creditors intended against her He admonished Joram likewise by certain Messengers Elizeus adviseth Joram to avoid Adads ambush who lay in wait to kill him that he should take heed of a certain place wherein the Syrians lay in ambush intending to slay him by means of which admonition the King went not out on hunting But Adad being sore displeased because his ambushment was discovered began to suspect his own followers whereupon calling unto him his houshold servants he maliciously B termed them Traytors and furthermore threatned them with death for that they had discovered a matter which was onely committed to their trust unto his enemy Whereupon one of the assistants told him That he ought not to conceive that false opinion of them neither suspect that they had discovered his intended ambush to cut off his enemy but