worthy of a great Prince and in this great authority wherein he was placed he stept not any ways awry but in the case of Vria's Wife He left as much or rather more riches behind him than any other King of the Hebrews or other Nations had F done His Son Solomon buried him most Royally in Jerusalem with all those ceremonies which were accustomed in Royal obsequies and amongst other things he buried a great quantity of riches with him the incredible estimate whereof may be conjectured by that which followeth The sumptuous Sepulchre of David For one thousand three hundred years after the High Priest Hircanus being besieged by Antiochus surnamed the Religious who was Demetrius's Son and willing to gratifie him with some summe of money to the intent he might raise the siege Hircanus â—aketh a huge sum of money out of Davids Tomb. and remove his Army and unable to levy money by any other means he opened the Sepulchre of David from whence he took three thousand talents which he delivered to Antiochus and by this means delivered the City from the siege as we have declared in another place Herod spoileth Davids Sepulchre And again a long time after this Herod also opened it and took from G thence a great summe Nevertheless no man violated that part of the monument where the body of the King was laid for it was so artificially hidden under ground that it would be very difficult to discover it A The Eighth Book of the Antiquities of the JEWS Written by FLAVIVS JOSEPHVS The Contents of the Chapters of the Eighth Book 1. How Solomon obtaining the Kingdom expelled his enemies 2. Of the riches prudence and wisdom of Solomon and how first of all he builded the Temple in Jerusalem B 3. How Solomon being dead the people revolted from Rehoboam his son and made Jeroboam King of the ten Tribes 4. How Susac King of Egypt sacking Jerusalem carried away the riches of that City into Egypt 5. The War of Jeroboam against Abias Rehobohams son and the slaughter of his Army and how Basanes extirpated Jeroboams posterity and possess'd the Kingdom 6. The Invasion of the Ethiopians under Asa and the overthrow of their Army 7. The Race of Basanes being rooted out Zamri ruled in Israel with his son Ahab 8. Adad King of Damascus and Syria is twice overthrown by Ahab 9. Of Jehoshaphat King of Jerusalem C 10. Ahab being provoked to War by the Syrians is overcome and slain in battel CHAP. I. How Solomon obtaining the Kingdom expelled his enemies WE have declared in the former Book what David was how great his virtue hath been 1 Kings 2. what profits and benefits those of his Nation received by him Solomon King of Israel after Davids death what Wars he undertook what Victories he obtained and how happily at last through extremity of age he departed D out of this life But after that Solomon his son being at that time very young had obtained the Kingdom and was placed in his fathers Throne according as David had determined and the divine power had decreed the whole people according to the common course in the election of new Princes with many acclamations wished him a long and prosperous Reign But Adonias who during his fathers life-time thought to possess and seize himself of the Royal estate came unto the Kings mother and with all humility and reverence saluted her To whom Bethsabe said That if there were any thing wherein she might serve him he should let her know it and that she would willingly apply her self unto it Whereupon he began to say That it was a thing very well known that the Kingdom appertained unto him both in regard of his age as also in respect of E the favor and good liking of the people Ver. 17 ad 24. but since that it had been transferred unto Solomon her son Adonias requireth Abisag to wife by the Will of God he was content therewith and would be his servant being very glad of the fortunate success of his Affairs He therefore besought her that she would sollicite Solomon in his behalf and persuade him to give him Abisag to Wife â—ho had slept with David for that he had not any carnal company with her by reason of his age and that as yet she was fully possessed of her virginity Bethsabe promised him to further his suit to the uttermost of her power and willingly to employ herself toward the accomplishment of the Marriage since she knew the King was willing to gratifie her in whatsoever she should desire as also for that she would instantly intreat him so that he departed from her with assured hope of good success in F his designed Marriage Hereupon Bethsabe presently addressed herself to the King intending to certifie him both what Adonias had requested and what she had granted When Solomon heard that his Mother came to visit him he went out to meet her and embraced her and afterwards conducting her into his Presence-chamber he sate him down and commanded his servants to place a seat on his right hand for his Mother who being seated by him spake unto him after this manner My son vouchsafe me one favor that I shall request at thy hands and send me not hence discontented and dissatisfied through thy refusal Solomon answered her That she should command him by reason that duty tyed him to the satisfaction and favor of his Mothers suits reproving her for that insinuation she had used by reason that thereby she evidently expressed that she was not G thorowly assured to obtain her demand but that she feared a refusal and repulse she therefore required him to give the Damsel Abisag for Wife to Adonias his Brother The King displeased at this her suit dismissed his Mother alledging that Adonias had ill designs and that he wondered that in requiring Abisag to Wife he had not requested Solomon H likewise to give him place in the Kingdom for Adonias was elder than he and had more mighty friends than he had namely the General Joab and the High Priest Abiathar For which cause he forthwith sent Benaia Captain of his Guard to kill Adonias his Brother Ver. 25. Then calling unto him the High Priest Abiathar The pains said he that thou hast endured by accompanying my father David Adonias is slain and attending and bearing the Ark with him make thee escape from death yet notwithstanding for that thou hast been assistant to Adonias Ver. 26. 27. and followed his faction Abiathar iâ— dispossessed of the Priesthood I banish thee from my presence charging thee not to see my face any more but to retire thy self to thine own house and there to live in thy Countrey until thou hast ended thy dayes since you have made your self unworthy of that charge wherewith you are entrusted For this cause was the House of Ithamar deprived of the Priestly I
Earth This Amri dyed in Samaria and Achab his Son was his Successor Hereby a Man may easily perceive what care the Divine Majesty hath of humane affairs and how he loveth the virtuous and utterly rooteth out the vicious For the Kings of Israel through their impiety in a short and successive course the one after the other O were cut off and confounded with all their Families But Asa King of Jerusalem and the two Tribes living happily in the favor of God for his piety and justice attained to a reverend and old age and after he had reigned one and forty years he dyed a good death The year of the World 3028. before Christ's Nativity 936. and after his death Jehoshaphat his son whom he begat on his wife Abida succeeded A him who in all things that concern'd piety or fortitude seem'd to emulate and equal his Grandfather David according as it shall be declar'd hereafter But Achab King of Israel made his abode in Samaria and govern'd the Kingdom for the space of 22 years without any alteration of those ordinances which his progenitors Kings of Israel had established alias chap. 10. but that he exceeded them daily in wickedness For he imitated all their impieties Asa dieth Jâ—hoshaphat succeedeth him but especially the Apostasie of Jeroboam for he adored those Calves that were erected by him and besides that 〈◊〉 far worse impieties than the former 2 Chron. 17 1 2. He took to wife Jezabel the daughter of Iâ—â—obal King of the Tyrians and Sidonians of whom he learnt to adore the gods of her Nation for she was a busie and audacious woman â— Kings 16. 30 31. and so insolent that she feared not to build a Temple in honour of Bell the god B of the Tyrians and to plant a Grove furnish'd with all kind of Trees and to ordain Priests and false Prophets also in honour of that god The King also took delight to have these Men oftentimes about him exceeding all other Kings before him in madness and malice Jezabel To him came a certain Prophet named Elias 1 Reg. 17. 1 ad 4. sent by Almighty God that was born in Thesbon in Galaad telling him that he fore-prophesied That neither dew nor rain should fall on the Earth a long time The dearth of victuals prophesied to the Israelites until that himself who was prepar'd to depart from him should appear again unto him and binding the same with an oath for the better confirmation thereof he retir'd himself to the Southward where he liv'd by a certain River from whence he fetcht his drink for his meat was daily brought him by Ravens C Now when the River through want of rain was grown dry God commanded him to repair unto Sareptha a City not far from Sidon and Tyre and scituate in the midst between them both where he should find a Widow-woman who would furnish him with food Ver. 4 5. As soon therefore as he drew near unto the gate Crows feed Elias he saw a woman that lived by her labour gathering of sticks and God gave him to understand that it was she to whom he was sent Ver. 9 ad 16. Whereupon he came unto her and saluted her praying her that she would bring him some water to cool his thrist The widow of Sareptha entertaing Elias neither flowre nor oyl fail and as she was ready to depart he called her back again and willed her to bring him some bread also Whereupon she sware unto him that she had nothing in her house but an handful of flowre and a little oyl and that she was come forth togather sticks to the end she might bake the same and make bread D for her self and her son and when they had eaten the same they must needs perish through famine because they had not any thing more left Go said the Prophet and be of good courage and conceive better hopes and when thou hast prepared meat for me bring it for I tell thee that thy flowre shall not fail nor thy pot of oyl be empty until God send rain upon the earth When the Prophet had spoken thus she approach'd unto him and performed that which he commanded and she herself had sufficient to feed upon and she gave the rest unto her son and to the Prophet so that they wanted nothing so long as the drought continued Menander maketh mention of this great drought in the acts of Ithobal King of the Tyrians Menander of the famine during the time of Elias speaking after this manner In this time there was a season without rain from the E Month of October until October in the next year after whereupon the Prince caused prayers and supplications to be made which were follow'd with great store of Thunder He built the City of Botris in Phoenicia and Auzate in Lybia Doubtless he expressed hereby the drought that hapned in Achab's time for about that time Ithobal reigned over the Tyrians as Menander â—â—stifieth in his History The woman of whom we have spoken heretofore that entertained the Prophet seeing her son fallen sick and lying sensless as if he had been already dead or yielding up the ghost wept and brake out into so great a passion that she forbore not to say that the cause of her misfortune was in that the Prophet was come into her house and had discover'd her sins and that he had been the cause that God for her punishment had taken away her onely son But he F comforted her and willed her to be of good courage and commanded her to bring the child unto him assuring her that he would restore him to life Now when she had brought him he took the child and carried him into his lodging and laid him on his bed 1 Kings 17. 17. ad finem and cryed unto God saying That since the loss of her onely son seem'd to be but an unequal recompence unto her that had so charitably received him he therefore besought him Elias restoreth the widows son to life that he would command the soul to return into the body and restore life unto the Infant Whereupon God having compassion on the mother and being willing to gratifie the Prophet and to the intent that no man might suppose that he came unto her to prejudice her he restored the child to life beyond all expectation For which the mother gave thanks unto the Prophet saying That by this means she was thorâ—wly persuaded G that God had spoken unto him Not long after he sought out Achab according as God had commanded him to let him know that he should have rain At that time the famine H reigned over the whole Countrey The year of the World 3040. before Christ's Nativity 924. and there was great want of necessary victuals so that Men did not only faint for want of bread but the Earth also for want of rain could not bring
be enamor'd with him that she could not hide her passion even from the King her Father Sauls daughter in love with David Saul instead of being displeas'd rejoyc'd at it hoping by that means the sooner to entrap David He gave ear thereto with some shew of allowance Saul subtilly objecteth David to slaughter under a colourable condition of slaughtering the Philistines and told them who spoke of it to him that he would willingly give him his Daughter to Wife for he reason'd thus with himself I will propose that I will give him my B Daughter in marriage on condition that he bring me six hundred Philistines heads and I am certain that being valiant and generous as he is he will with joy accept this condition because the more dangerous it is the more glory it will acquire to him and so exposing himself to all manner of dangers he will be slain by the hands of the Philistines Ver. 27 c. and that intention which I have conceived against him shall succeed according to mine own hearts desire Saul under covenant of 60â— Philistines heads promiseth David his daughter for I shall be delivered of him in sending him out of the world not by my means but by other mens hands Having taken this resolution he charged his Courtiers to sound Davids sentiments and how he stood affected to the marriage and they told him That the King bare him great kindness and so rejoyc'd that the People admir'd him that he would give him in marriage the Princess his Daughter David C answer'd Think you it a small matter to be Son-in-law to the King for my self I esteem otherwise considering mine own base condition who have neither reputation nor any honourable quality When Sauls servants had reported to him what answer David made them Tell him said he that I value not Goods or Presents for that were to expose my Daughter to sale and not to match her with an Husband I seek a Son-in-law that hath Valor and that is adorned with all Virtue such as is manifest and apparent in thee and my desire is that for the dowry of my Daughter thou give me neither gold nor silver nor any other wealth out of thy Fathers house but that thou make War upon the Philistines and six hundred of their heads shall be the most acceptable dower thou canst present me with My Daughter also desires above all the dowers to be married to a Man that is so ennobled and famous for the overthrow of the D Enemies of her Father and her Countrey When these words were reported to David he was very joyful thinking that Saul acted sincerely concerning this alliance and without delay or taking counsel or deliberation whether the thing were easie or impossible for him to execute he incontinently departed with his company to find out the Enemy and execute the condition upon which the marriage was promised him God assisted David in this occasion as in all others And after he had slain a great number of them and cut off six hundred of their Heads he returned and presented them to the King and in consideration thereof desired the performance of his promise E F G CHAP. XII H Saul admiring David's fortitude giveth him his Daughter to Wife BUT Saul 1 Sam. 18. 27 c. that could not flie from his promise because it would be a great dishonour to him to fail of his word and to have promised his Daughter under colour Saul marrieth Michol to David either to murther him or to put him upon the execution of things that were impossible deliver'd his Daughter Michol unto him Nevertheless he chang'd not his purpose Hedio Ruffinus cap. 12. For perceiving that David was gracious in Gods sight and in good reputation among the People Saul resolveth to kill David he was afraid of him and being unable to conceal his fear of being I deprived of two things of such consequence as his Kingdom and Life he resolved to kill David Jonathan loves David and sheweth him his fathers determination and counselleth him to have care of his safety and stand on his guard giving Commission to his Son Jonathan and divers other of his Servants to execute the same But Jonathan amazed to see this change in his Father who in stead of the good liking he had of David in times past sought to injure him not in any slight sort but by taking away his life and on the other side being singularly affected towards him and respecting his virtue he communicated the secret intention of his Father to him counselling him to have a care of himself and to flie the next morning in the mean while he would go and salute his Father and as soon as occasion presented it self he would confer with him to know the cause of his displeasure against him to the intent he might pacifie the same conceiving it a matter unreasonable that he should be K deprived of life who had so well deserv'd of all the people and who in particular was his intimate Friend and in respect of his former merits if guilty of some offence deserved pardon I will tell thee afterwards said he what my Fathers resolution is David gave credit to his wholesom counsel and retired from the presence of the King CHAP. XIII How the King practised to murther David L THE next morning Jonathan came to Saul and finding him well disposed began to speak to him to this effect â— Sam. 19. 3 ad 6. concerning David Of what fault O Father either great or small Jonathan reckoneth up unto his father the good deserts of David praying him to pacifie his displeasure conceived against him have you found David guilty that you have commanded him to be put to death A Man that hath done you such signal service that hath reveng'd you upon the Philistines abated their Pride and advanc'd the Honour of the People of the Hebrews and hath delivered them from that disgrace and contempt under which they have layen for the space of Forty years being the onely person that dared to oppose himself against the proud defiances of that Gyant whom he so gloriously overcame and who since that time hath brought as many of the Philistines heads as were demanded of him in recompence whereof he hath taken my sister to Wife Be pleas'd to consider that his death would be a great grief to us not only upon account M of his virtue but also of his alliance with us and that by his death your Daughter will have the affliction to see her self a Widow as soon as she is a Wife Weigh these things and pacifie your displeasure and do no wrong to such a Man who hath been the Author of so good and great service as is the conservation of your person at such time as you were possessed and tormented with evil spirits Ver. 7. and the revenging you of your Enemies
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
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
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
into what Countrey he had made his inroad He sent likewise a part of the prey unto the King and when he demanded from whom he had taken it he answer'd That he had taken it from the Jews that dwelt Southward and in the Plain so that Achis conceived an opinion that since David warred against his own Nation all the time of his abode with him he would be a faithful Servant to him About the same time the Philistines having determined to lead forth their Army against the Israelites sent to their Allies requiring N them to assist them in that War and to make their Rendezvous at Renga to the intent that being there assembled they might dislodge and assail the Israelites Amongst the other their Auxiliary Companies Achis had requested David to assist him with his 600 Soldiers which he promised readily telling him That the time was now come wherein he might requite his kindness and the hospitality he had shewen him Achis promised him that after the Victory when all things should have succeeded according as he desired he would prefer David to be Captain of his Guard thinking by the promise of this honour and trust he might augment Davids forwardness and affection toward him O A CHAP. XV. The year of the World 2809. before Christ's Nativity 1074. The Philistines renew their War against the Hebrews and obtain the Victory Saul with his Sons are slain in the Battel SAul having advice 1 Sam. 28. 3 7 8 9. that the Philistines were advanced as far as Sunam drew out his Forces Saul banisheth all diviners and enchanters out of his Kingdom and encamped over against them but when he perceived their Army to be much more numerous than his his heart failed him and desiring the Prophets to enquire of God what should be the event of this War and receiving no answer his fear was B doubled since he had reason to believe that God had forsaken him Hereupon his courage abated Ver. 6. and in this perplexity he resolved to have recourse to Magick but having lately banished the Inchanters Saul hearing the Philistines make head against him asked counsel of God Magicians and such as pretended to tell Fortunes it could hardly be expected that one of them should be found but yet he commanded that they should enquire for one of those that could raise the spirits of the dead and by their information learn what should come to pass hereafter And being advertised that there was such an one at Endor without the knowledge of his Army laying aside his Royal Habits and attended onely by two of his most faithful servants he repaired to Endor to this Woman requiring her to divine and raise up the spirit of him whom he should name Saul repaireth to Endor to ask counsel of a Sorceress The Woman denied and said That she ought not to offend against the Kings C Edict who had driven out of his Realm all such sort of Soothsayers telling him that he did not well Ver. 8 9. who having received no wrong at her hands should endeavor to lay a snare to bring her into a Crime which might cost her her life But Saul swore unto her That no man should know thereof and that he would not discover her divination to others and that she should incur no danger thereby After that by his Oaths and Protestations he had persuaded her Saul commandeth the Witch to raise Samuels ghost v. 10 11. that she should have no cause to fear he commanded her to raise the spirit of Samuel She not knowing what Samuel was called him and he suddenly appeared But when she perceived somewhat divine or more than ordinary in his countenance she was troubled and turning to the King she asked him If he were Saul for Samuel had certified her no less Saul confessed D that it was he and asked her For what cause she seemed to be so much troubled She answered That she saw a Man ascend that resembled God Saul commanded her to declare unto him his shape habit and age she told him That he was a reverend old Man attired in the vestment of an High Priest By these marks Saul knew that it was Samuel whereupon prostrating himself on the earth he adored him The spirit of Samuel asked him For what cause he had troubled him To whom he complained That he was inforced thereunto by necessity Ver. 15. for that a mighty Host of his Enemies were at hand Saul complaineth of his miseries to Samuel and asketh his advice and that he was forsaken by God having from him no answer either by Prophesie or Dream wherefore said he I apply my self unto thee who hast alwayes expressed great kindness towards me But Samuel foreseeing that the Kings end drew nigh answer'd him It was in vain for thee to enquire E concerning those things that shall happen since thou knowest that thou art forsaken of God Know therefore A ver 16 ad 20. said he that David shall possess the Kingdom and that it is he that shall establish the State by Arms Samuels ghost certifieth Saul of the event of his battel against the Philistines but thou shalt lose both thy Kingdom and thy life because thou hast disobeyed God in thy War against the Amalekites and hast not observed his Commandments according as I foretold thee when I was alive Know therefore that thy People and Host shall be discomfited by the Enemy and that both thou and thy sons shall be to morrow slain in the Battel and be with me Ver. 20 21. When Saul understood these things he became speechless through sorrow Saul through sudden sorrow fell in a swoon and fell down on the ground either because his strength failed him through sudden grief or for want of food because he had eaten nothing that night nor the day before F At length Ver. 22 c. hardly recovering himself out of his Swoon the Woman importuned him to receive some sustenance The Enchantress intreateth him to refresh himself and take some reâ—ection telling him that she desired no other reward for the hazard which she had run of forfeiting her life before she knew that he was the King himself by whose Commands those Divinations had been lately prohibited wherefore she prayed him that he would sit down at the Table and refresh himself that he might be the more able to return unto his Army An example of courtesie and liberality in the Enchantress And although he refused to eat because he had no appetite and was utterly desperate yet she so effectually importuned him that at length she persuaded him to receive some little nourishment And whereas she had but one Calf for she was but a poor Woman and had no other riches yet spared she not to kill it and dress it for Saul and his Retinue After which Saul returned to his Camp G The courtesie of 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
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
singing men who were appointed by the King went before it The King himself likewise played upon the Harp so that Michol Davids A Wife and Sauls Daughter The year of the World 2900 before Christ's Nativity 1004. seeing him mocked at him The Ark then being thus carried was placed in a Tabernacle erected by David who offered sacrifices of all sorts in such abundance that he feasted all the people both men women and children distributing unto every one a Cake and a portion of the sacrifice and after he had thus feasted the people David is mocked by his Wife Michol he dismissed them and retired unto his own house But Michol his Wife the Daughter of King Saul drawing neer unto him upon his return besought God for him v. 13 14 15 16. that it might please him in all other things she might express unto her husband all that which became her intire and unequal'd love towards him but in this she blamed him because that being so great and mighty a King he had dishhonoured himself in dancing and had thereby discovered that which became him not doing all this in company B of his Servants and handmaids To whom David answered that he was not ashamed of performing a thing so acceptable unto God as that was who prefered him before her Father and placed him above all others assuring her that he should oftentimes behave himself after that manner This Michol had no children by David but being married again to another to whom her Father had betrothed her after he took her from David she bear five Sons of whom we will speak hereafter 2 Sam. 7. 1 2 3 The King perceiving how by Gods assistance his affairs prospered daily more and more David decreeeth to build a Temple unto God thought that he could not without offence dwell in an house of Cedar and suffer the Ark to remain in a Tabernacle wherefore he designed to build a Temple unto God according as Moses had foretold and to this intent consulted with the Prophet Nathan who willed him to perform all that which he was minded to C accomplish assuring him that God would be assistant unto him which confirmed him in the resolutions he had taken But the same night God appeared unto Nathan commanding him to tell David v. 5. ad 17. that he accepted his will and commended his resolutions yet notwithstanding he permitted him not to proceed because he had embrewed his hands in the blood of many of his Enemies God certifieth David by Nathan that Solomon should build the Temple But after his decease which shall happen after he hath lived a long and prosperous life his Son Solomon to whom he shall leave the Kingdom after his death shall cause a Temple to be built promising him to assist the said Solomon even as the Father doth his Son and that he would continue the Kingdom in his Heirs v 18 ad finem And that if they shall happen at any time to offend him David giveth God thanks for the blessings which were promised him by Nathan he will only punish them with sickness and famine David hearing this was very joyful because D the Kingdom was assured to his heirs and for that his house should be renowned and presenting himself before the Ark he prostrated himself and gave God thanks for all the benefits he had bestowed on him for that from a poor and humble shepherd he had raised him to so great a heighth of Majesty and Glory that he had promised to to take care of his posterity and that he would secure the liberty of his people which he had asserted in delivering them from bondage CHAP. V. David overcoming the neighbouring Nations Hedio Ruffinus chap. 5. imposeth tributes on them E NOt long time after this David Warreth against the Philistines and taketh a great part of the inheritance from them David made War upon the Philistines partly that he might avoid the suspition of sloth and idleness and partly that having according as God had foretold discomfited his Enemies he might leave a peaceable Kingdom to his posterity after him He therefore assembled his Army commanding them to be in a readiness to march and departing out of Jerusalem he made an inroade into the Countrey of the Philistines 2 Sam. 8. v. 1 2. whom he overcame in battle A great slaughter of the Moabites and took a great part of the Countrey from them by means whereof he enlarged the frontiers of the Hebrews He made war also against the Moabites whose Army being divided into two parts was by him defeated and overthrown 3 4. and many prisoners taken David overcometh the King of Sophona and tributes were imposed on them Afterwards he led out his Army against Adarezer Son of Ara King of Sophona and F giving him battel near the River Euphrates he slew about two thousand foot and five thousand Horse he took also almost a thousand Chariots the greater part whereof was wholly consumed and one hundred of them only reserved to his own use CHAP. VI 2 Sam. 8. v 6 7 8. They of Damascus are overcome by David Adad King of Damasco and Syria is overcome by David in battel A Dad King of Damascus and of Syria understanding that David had made War on Adarezar who was his feiend and confedarate raised great forces to assist him Nicholaus the Historiographer maketh mention of King Adads War with David But entering the field and encountering with David neare unto the River Euphrates G he was overcome and lost a great number of his Soldiers for in that battle there fell on his side twenty thousand and the rest fled Of this King Nicholas the Historiographer makes mention in the fourth Book of his History in these words A long time after the most puissant Prince of this Countrey called Adad governed in Damascus The year of the World 2904. before Christ's Nativity 1061. and over the rest of H Syria except Phoenicia who making War against David King of Judea and having oftentimes fought with him in his last encounter wherein he was overcome near the River Euphrates he signalized himself by such actions as were worthy of a great Captain and a great King Of another King of Syria that spoiled Samaria Moreover he speaketh of his Heirs that reighned successively after him That he being deceased his Sons reigned for ten generations after him each of them receiving from their father the same name and the same Kingdom after the manner of the Ptolomies of Egypt 2 Sam. 8. 1 ad 4. The third of these being more mighty than the rest and desirous to revenge himself of the injuries which were offered unto his grandfather led forth his Army against the Jews David imposeth tribute on the Syrians whom he subdued and destroyed the Countrey called at this day Samaria Wherein he varied not from
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
having violated her he would not suffer her to remain M there until night but thrust her out in the day time to the end she might have her shame discovered notwithstanding all these just reasons of hers he commanded his Servant to drive her out She being greived at the outrage and violence that had been offered her tore her Garment which was such as the Noble and Princely Virgins were wont to wear and strewed ashes on her head running thorow the City with cries and lamentations wherein she expressed what wrong had been done unto her Her Brother Absalom met her and enquiring what evil had befaln her she reported all the injury which her Brother Amnon had don her whereupon he exhorted her to pacifie her self and to suffer moderately whatsoever had befallen her v. 20 21. and not to suppose herself to be dishonoured by any act of her Brother Absalom comforetth his Sister Thama. Whereupon she was somewhat pacified and remained a long N time with her Brother Absalom unmarried David having intelligence of that which had hapned was displeased notwithstanding he loved Amnon very entirely Ver. 24. ad 29. because he was his eldest son and would not disquiet him Absalom invited his father and brethren to his sheep-shearing and commandeth his servants to kill Amnon being overcharged with wine and sleep but Absalom hated him extremely expecting some fit opportunity wherein he might revenge himself on the Ravisher Now when two years were expired since his sister was defloured it chanced that Absalom intending a sheep-shearing in Belsephon a City of the Tribe of Ephraim invited his Father and Brethren to come to his Entertainment But when the King refused to go lest he might be chargeable unto him Absalom pressed and persuaded him to send his brothers thither which he granted Hereupon Absalon commanded his servants that when they should see Amnon charged with wine and sleep O they should suddenly upon a sign given by him unto them kill him without fear or regard of any person A CHAP. VIII The year of the World 2912. before Christ's Nativity 1052. How through the Domestick discord of his Family David was banished by his Son out of his Kingdom AFter that Absalom's servants had thus executed his Commandment Ver. 30 31. a trouble and fear seized all the rest of his Brethren David is certified that all his sons are slain by Absalom insomuch as they suspected their own persons wherefore mounting themselves on Horseback they posted all in haste towards their Father But a Messenger who arrived before them reported unto David that Absalom had slain all his sons Who surprized with the dreadful apprehension of so heinous a crime B insupposing that such a number of his Children should be slain and that by their own Brother neither enquired the cause nor had patience to expect the confirmation of the report but gave himself over to extreme grief and renting his garments laid him down on the earth bewailing all his children both those that were slain as him also that had slain them Ver. 32 33. But Jonathan Jonathan comforteth David contradicting his fear in respect of all his sons and only upon just â—urmise suspecting Amnons deaâ—h the son of Sama his Brother exhorted him to moderate his passion telling him That he could not be persuaded that the rest of his children were slain in that he could conceive no probable cause of conjecture But as touching Amnon there needed no question for that it was very like that Absalom by reason of the injury which was offered unto his sister Thamar would hazard himself to kill him Mean while a great trampling of Horses and a confused Troop of Men break off their discourse These were the C Kings sons who returned in Post from the Entertainment the afflicted Father ran forth to embrace them accompanying their tears with a heavy and sorrowful countenance And seeing beyond all hope how they Davids sons resort unto their father whom a little before he supposed to be lost returned in safety they gave themselves over to tears and lamentations the Brothers bewailed the loss of their Brother Ver. 34. and the King his murthered Son But Absalom fled into Gessur unto his Grandfather on the Mothers side Absalom flieth to his grandfather and Lord of that place and sojourned with him three whole years at the end whereof David determined to send for his Son Absalom 2 Sam. 24. 1 ad 25. not to punish him but receive him into favor for the indignation he had conceived against him was at that time abated Joab also furthered this his resolution by all means possible Absalom by the subtilty of a woman and the setting on of Joab is revoked from banishment unto Jerusalem For he caused a certain old Woman attired in mourning D Habit to present her self before David who said unto him That betwixt her two Sons that lived in the Countrey there hapned such a difference that falling to handy-strokes they were so inraged one against the other that not enduring to be parted the one of them so wounded the other that he died and because her Relations were incensed against the Murtherer and sought without mercy to deprive him of life she humbly besought the King that he would give her her Sons life and not deprive her of that onely comfort of her old age which he should bring to pass if so be he prohibited those that would kill her son from executing their intents for except it were for fear of him they would by no means be withdrawn from their fatal and bloody resolution Now when the King had granted her Request the Woman proceeded I most humbly thank your Majesty said she who have had compassion of mine age and do so providently E take care that I be not deprived of my Son but that I may be the better assured of thy sincerity I beseech thee O King first of all pacifie thy displeasure conceived against thy Son and be no more incensed against him For how can I persuade my self that you will grant me this favor if you your self continue your displeasure conceived upon the like occasion against your Son For it is contrary to the Rules of Wisdom to add to the irreparable loss of one Son the voluntary deprivation of another Upon these words the King began to suspect that Joab had suborned this Woman and understanding no less by the old Womans report he sent for Joab and told him That he granted him that which he desired commanding him to send for Absalom assuring him that his displeasure was pacified and choler asswaged Joab cast himself down prostrate before the King and returning him Thanks he went unto F Gessur and brought Absalom from thence with him to Jerusalem The King understanding that his Son was come Ver. 24. sent out a Messenger to meet him commanding that as yet he should
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
himself before the King and had declared unto him the success of the battel the question L was asked how Absalon did whereunto he answered The like fortune happen to all thine enemies O King as hath hapned to Absalon These words quite extinguished the delight and joy that David conceived in the victory and the excess thereof much troubled his servants for the King ascending into the highest part of the City bewailed his son beating his breast tearing his hair and afflicting himself after such a sort as cannot be expressed and crying out in a mournful manner My son said he would God my son that I were dead with thee For although of his own nature he was of a tender disposition yet loved he Absalon above all the rest of his children When the Army and Joab were informed that David lamented his son in his sort 2 Sam. 19. 1 2 3 4. they had this respect unto him Joab and his army enter the city in mournful manner that they would not enter the City after a triumphant and victorious M manner but they entred hanging down their heads and weeping all of them most tenderly as if they had returned from some defeat But when the King having his head covered persevered to bewail his son Joab entred in unto him and said O King you consider not that in this behaviour of yours you dishonour your self for it is to be thought that you hate those that love you and expose themselves to all perils for your sake yea that you hate your self and your own succession and that contrariwise you love your most mortal enemies most entirely since you bewail them when they are justly deprived of their lives For if Absalom had had the victory and had possessed the Kingdom there had not any one of us been left alive that love you but had all suffered death nay and in the first rank your self and your own children neither would they being our enemies have lamented but laughed at our deaths N yea Ver. 5 ad 8. they would punish them likewise David is taxed for lamenting his son and upon Joabs persuasion presenteth himself unto the people who should have any compassion of our miseries yet are you not ashamed to lament after this manner for a man that hated you who although he received his life from you yet he shewed not that honour and respect which he was obliged to express towards a father Desist therefore from thy unjust lamentation and offer thy self in presence to thy well-deserving Soldiers and give them thanks that by their valor have obtained this victory otherwise if thou continue as thou hast begun this day will I translate the Kingdom from thee and give thee a more just occasion to lament than hitherto thou hast had By these words Joab allayed the Kings Lamentations and drew him to the care of his Common-weal for cloathing himself in a Royal habit whereby he might appear the more glorious unto his Soldiers he sate in the gate so that all the people hearing thereof flocked O out to salute him A Whilest these things past after this manner they that remained alive of Absalons Army returning home unto their houses sent messengers to every Village to remind them how many benefits they had received at Davids hands and how after many and grievous Wars he had brought them to a secure liberty and how unjustly they had revolted from him and translated the Kingdom unto another For which cause it behooved them since he was dead whom they had chosen Ver. 9. to make their submission unto David that he might be reconciled to them The kingdom of Israel is once more offered unto David and receive the people into his favor and that according as heretofore so now also he would vouchsafe them his pardon and protection David being informed of these things by express Letters commanded Sadoc and Abiathar the chief Priests that they should certifie the Princes of the Tribe of Juda that it would be B a great indignity for them that other Tribes should prefer David to the Kingdom before them especially since he was of their Tribe In like manner he commanded them to speak with Amasa the General Ver. 13 14. and expostulate with him why he who was his Nephew by the sisters side David not only giveth Amasa his pardon but maketh him General also of the whole Army did not persuade the Army to recommend the Kingdom to his hands willing them to assure him that he was not only to hope for pardon for that which was past but also for the government of the whole Army according as Absalon had granted it unto him Hereupon the High Priest not only conferred with the Princes but also informed Amasa what the King had promised in his behalf whereby they drew him to their party Ver. 15. And first of all The Tribe of Juda cometh as far as Jordan to meet with David and make a Bridge over the floud those of his own Tribe recalled David into his Kingdom the rest of the Israelites by their example and Amasa's authority did the C like and flocked from all parts to congratulate his happy return to Jerusalem But the Tribe of Juda signalized themselves above the rest by going out as far as the bank of Jordan to meet him with these came Simei the son of Gera with a thousand men which he had brought with him of the Tribe of Benjamin Siba likewise Sauls freeman came thither with his 15 sons and 20 servants who made a bridge over Jordan that the King might the more easily pass over with his Army As soon as he came unto Jordan he was saluted by the Tribe of Juda Simei is pardoned and Simei marched forward on the bridge and prostrating himself at the Kings feet Ver. 22 23. asked pardon for his offences and besought him to be reconciled and that in recovering his authority he would not make him the first example of his justice but that he should remember this also that he had repented of his error D and did with the foremost march out to meet him upon his return Whilest thus he besought the King and lamented Abisai Joabs brother spake after this manner Why should he not dye that hath thus villanously reproached the King whom God hath established But David turned back unto him and said Ye sons of Servia will you never cease to promote new troubles and to add new divisions to your former commotions Know ye not that this is the first day of my Reign For which cause I swear an oath that I will pardon all them that have committed any crime against me and that no one man shall depart from me without my pardon For which cause be of good cheer Simei and fear thou not that I will seek thy blood Whereupon he cast himself down before the King and afterward marched on his way After this Mephibosheth
King accompanied by his Sons coming towards him v. 20 21. he ran out to meet him Oronna the Jebusite and I humbled himself before him This man was by Nation a Jebusite and one of the greatest friends that David had by means whereof he plundred him not at such time as the fortress of the Jebusites was taken supra l. 7. c. 2. called Orphona as we have heretofore declared Oronna asked him for what cause his Lord came thus unto him v. 22 23. who was his Servant David answered that it was to purchase his threshing-floor Oronna giveth David his floor to the intent that he might build an Altar in that place and offer sacrifice unto God Oronna replied that both his Floor his Ploughs and Oxen were the Kings to offer up for a burnt-sacrifice The summe that was paid for the threshing floor beseeching God that he would graciously accept that offering To this the King answered that he commended his liberality and beneficence and that he accepted the offer he had made him yet that it was his pleasure that he should receive the price of the same The place of the Altar that was built because he ought not to offer sacrifice unto K God upon other mens charges To this Oronna answered that his Majesty might do as best pleased him Gen. 22. Hereupon he bought the foresaid Floor of him for fifty sicles Then erected he an Altar in this place supra l. 1. c. 13. and offered sacrifice thereon as well burnt-offerings as peace-offerings and by this means the Divine Majesty was appeased and ever after shewed himself favourable Now this place was the very same whereto Abraham in times past had brought his Son Isaac to offer up for a burnt-sacrifice unto God and as he was about to sacrifice him a Wether upon the instant presented it self unto the Altar which Abraham offered up in stead of his Son as we have heretofore related David seeing that God had heard his prayer and favourably accepted his sacrifice decreed that in that place the general Altar of the people should stand and that on L the very same Floor he would build a Temple unto God which words of his God afterwards ratified For sending his Prophet unto him he assured him that his Son that should succeed him should build a Temple After this Prophetical declaration the King commanded to number the Inhabitants of Jerusalem and it was found that there were one hundred and fourscore thousand men of which number he appointed eighty thousand to intend the hewing of stones Hedio Ruffinus chap. 14. and ordered that the rest of the common people should bear Stones unto them and he appointed three thousand and five hundred The workmen alloâ—ted for the building of the Temple who should govern them and have the overseeing of the works He gathered also a great quantity of Iron and Brass to work upon with store of huge Cedar-trees which they of Tyre and Sidon sent him whom he had put in trust to furnish him therewith M 1 Chron. 22. telling his friends that he made that preparation at that time to the intent that when his Son should govern after him à 1 ad 5. and v. 14. he might have materials in a readiness for the building of the Temple David gathereth great store of Iron Brass and Wood. and to the intent that he being as yet young and unexperimented should not be troubled with the gathering thereof but having all things in a readiness might finish the building of the Temple CHAP. XI DAVID during his life time surrendereth the Kingdom to SOLOMON THEN calling unto him his Son Solomon he charged him that after his decease and N his own instalment in the kingdom v. 5 6. he should build a Temple unto God telling him that though he had both a will and intent to perform the same The building of Solomons Temple is commanded yet that he was not permitted by God because he had been a man of blood and brought up in War Adding further that it was fore-prophesied unto him that the finishing of that Edifice was by Gods appointment reserved to his younger Son that should be called Solomon whom God should not lesse tender and care for than the Father doth his Son and how the whole Land of the Hebrews should be made happy under this Prince and among other benefits that they should have peace which is an especial blessing and not only be freed from foreign Wars v. 7 ad finem but also from civil dissentions For which cause said he since by God thou wert appointed King before thou wast born David counseleth Solomon to honour God take care to make O thy self worthy of so great an honour by thy piety justice and fortitude and keeping those his Ordinances and Laws which he gave us by Moses and not permitting others to transgress A the same And as touching the Temple which he will that thou shalt build when thou shalt obtain the Kingdom take care to discharge that duty towards God neither be thou dismaid or afraid at the greatness of the work For before I shall depart out of this world I will set all things in a readiness for thee Know therefore that I have already gathered ten thousand talents of Gold and an hundred thousand talents of Silver and an incredible quantity of Brass and Iron of Stone and of Wood. Moreover thou shalt have many thousands of Masons and Carpenters and if after this any thing else shall be wanting thou shalt thy self make provision thereof à v. 1 ad 5. thou shalt hereby perform that which is most agreeable in the sight of God The treasure that was gathered towards the building of the Temple and he shall be thy sovereign and safe conductor He exhorted also the Governours of the people to set to their helping hand and yeeld their assistance to his Son in finishing this Work B and in furthering the service of God without suspition of any inconveniency assuring them that they should enjoy a firm peace The Assistants that Solomon had in building the Temple and flourishing estate such blessings as God bestoweth upon those that study after piety and justice Moreover he charged him to place the Ark within the Temple at such time as it should be finished with all other sacred utensils for the reception whereof the Temple should long since have been builded The comandment as touching the Ark and laying up all other sacred utensils within the Temple had not their fore-fathers neglected Gods command who had enjoyned them that at such time as they should possess their Enemies Land they should build him a Temple These were Davids exhortations not only unto his Son but also to the other Princes Now when David was very old so that by reason of his years his body was cold and benum'd Hedio
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
such time as Joab Ader fled into Egypt General of Davids Army had conquer'd Idumaea and in the space of six months defeated all the youth and those that were capable to bear Arms he fled unto L Pharaoh King of Egypt Ader beseecheth Pharaoh to dismiss him that he might return into his Countâ—â—y who entertain'd him very courteously and gave him an house and lands for his maintenance and loved him dearly when he came to mans estate so that he married him to Taphines his wives sister on whom he begat a Son who was brought up with the Kings children who having intelligence in Egypt of David and Joabs death address'd himself unto Pharaoh and besought him to give him leave to repair into his own Countrey The King ask'd him what he wanted or what the cause was that mov'd him to be so forward to forsake him Notwithstanding therefore that he importuned and requested him divers times yet prevailed he not with him But when Solomons fortunes began to decline Ader returneth into Idumaea and from thence departeth into Syria by reason of his iniquities above-mentioned and the wrath of God provoked M against him Ader by Gods permission came into Idumaea after he had obtained leave of Pharaoh to depart But being unable to move the people to revolt from Solomon by reason of the strong Garisons he held Raas and Ader enemies to Solomon and knowing that without hazard of his own person he could move no alterations or innovation in that place he departed from thence and went into Syria where confederating himself with a certain man called Raas who was fled from his Master Adarezer King of Sophone and lived like an Outlaw in that Region he contracted friendship with him and a great sort of Outlaws and Thieves that were his followers and went into Syria and seizing on that Countrey proclaimed himself King thereof From whence making excursions into the lands of the Israelites he spoiled and pillaged the same during Solomons life-time Thus were N the Hebrews enforced to sustain those Outrages at Aders hands Moreover a certain Man called Jeroboam the son of Nebat by Nation a Jew rebelled against Solomon Ver. 26 ad 35. and raised his hopes above his estate persuaded thereunto by a Prophesie that concerned him Jeroboam rebelleth against Solomon and incited him unto the action For being left very young by his Father and carefully instructed by his Mother as soon as Solomon perceived him to be of a noble and couragious spirit he made him Commissary over the building of the Walls at such time as he immured and fortified Jerusalem In this office he behaved himself so well Ver. 30. that the King thought very well thereof and by way of recompence made him General over the Tribe of Joseph Achâ—as the Prophet foretelleth that he should be King over the ten Tribes Towards which whil'st he travelled from Jerusalem a certain Prophet met him upon the way who was of the City of Silâ— called O Achias who approaching near unto him and saluting him drew him out of the way into a place where none but themselves were present and there renting the garment which he wore upon his back in twelve pieces he commanded Jeroboam to take ten telling him That God had so decreed The year of the World 2971. before Christ's Nativity 993. and how he would rent the Government from Solomon and reserve A only one Tribe unto his son with that other which was annexed unto it by reason of the promise made to David and to thee said he he giveth the other ten because Solomon hath offended God and addicted himself to the love of strange Women and the service of foreign gods Now since thou knowest the cause wherefore God hath alienated the Kingdom from Solomon be thou just and observe the Laws for if thou behavest thy self in such sort as thou knowest David did a great reward of thy piety and recompence of thy observance attendeth thee so that thou shalt become as mighty as David hath been before thee Jeroboam confirmed in great hopes by these words of the Prophet being by nature haughty in years young and besides that Ver. 40. desirous of authority Jeroboam flieth into Egypt and remaineth there until Solomons death he took no rest but being possessed of the place of B General and remembring himself of that which had been told him by Achias he presently began to persuade the people to revolt from Solomon and to choose him for their King Solomon hearing news of this his design sought means to lay hands on him and to put him to death but Jeroboam preventing him fled unto Susac King of Egypt with whom he remained until the death of Solomon And thus for that time escaped he punishment and thus was he reserved to the fortune of a Kingdom CHAP. III. After the death of Solomon the people revolt from Rehoboam his Son and proclaim Jeroboam King of the Ten Tribes C BUT when Solomon was very old The death of Solomon he dyed after he had Reigned fourscore years and lived ninety four and was buried in Jerusalem of all Kings the most happy rich and prudent Hedio Ruffinus cap. 8. al. 4. except that sin whereunto he was drawn by Women in his old age of whom and those calamities that presently after befell the Hebrews we have sufficiently spoken 1 Reg. 12. 1 ad 11. After the death of Solomon as soon as his son Rehoboam whom he begat upon an Ammonitish woman called Noma succeeded him in the Kingdom the Governors of the people sent certain messengers into Egypt to recall Jeroboam who arriving in the City of Sichem Rehoboam came thither also resolving in that Assembly of the Israelites to take the Kingdom upon himself by the peoples consent The people require Rehoboam to mitigate their burthen To him therefore the Princes D of the people resorted with Jeroboam beseeching him That he would remit somewhat of their servitude and shew himself more merciful than his father had been for that under his government they had been sorely oppressed assuring him that by that means his Kingdom should be the more secured if so be he had rather be beloved than feared He three days after promised them to return an answer to their demands and by that means drew them into suspition that upon the motion he misliked of the offers they had proposed for they thought it became his years to be affable and ready to deserve well yet remained there some hope in them Ver. 6 7 8. that they had not presently suffered a repulse Mean while he calling about him his fathers friends The wholesom advice of the Elders consulted what answer he should give the people they that wished his welfare and knew the nature of the people very well persuaded E him to speak familiarly unto the people and remitting a little of his Kingly
these things according as he pleaseth After the Retreat of Susac Ver. 9 10. King Rehoboam made shields and bucklers of brass Rehoâ—oam for the golden shields and bucklers maketh new of brass instead of those of gold and gave the like number unto his guard and instead of living in a brave Army in a Royal and Princely state he reigned after a servile manner being all his life-time an enemy to Jeroboam He dyed after he had lived fifty seven years whereof he Reigned seventeen Ver. 13 14. He was a haughty and undiscreet man and lost his estate because he would not give credit to his Fathers friends Reâ—oboam dyeth and Abias reigneth after him He was buried in Jerusalem in the Sepulchre C of the Kings and his son Abias succeeded him in the Kingdom at such time as Jeroboam had already Reigned eighteen years over the Ten Tribes After having related the end of Rehoboam Hedio Ruffinus cap. 11. we must give an account likewise of that of Jeroboam 1 Reg. 14. 2 ad 18. He observing no mean or end of his impiety employed himself continually in making of Altars and high places and presumed to ordain Priests of the meanest of the people Jeroboams impiety But God with-held not long to heap the punishment of those his impieties Jeroboams son falleth sick his mother is sent to Achias the Prophet on the head of him and of all his posterity Whereas therefore his son Obimes was sick about that time he commanded his Wife to lay aside her Royal garment and to apparel her self like a common Woman and afterwards to go to Achias the Prophet assuring her that he was admirable for his knowledge in foretelling things to come and had D foretold him that he should be King wherefore he advised her to go to him after the manner of a stranger and enquire of him if her son should escape that sickness Whereupon she disguised herself according as her husband had commanded her and came unto the City of Silo where Achias dwelt and as she was upon entring his house notwithstanding he had lost his sight through age God appeared unto him and told him that Jeroboams Wife came unto him and all that he should answer to her demands At such time therefore as she entered into his house after the guise of a common and strange Woman Achias cryed with a loud voice Enter thou Wife of Jeroboam wherefore hidest thou thy self Thou canst not hide thy self from God who had certified me of thy coming and hath informed me what answer I shall give E unto thee Ver. 10 c. He therefore said unto her The punishment of Jeroboam and the misery of the people fore-prophesied that she should return unto her husband and certifie him of Gods answer to this effect Of little and nothing that thou wert I have made thee great and having dismembred the Kingdom from Davids posterity I have given it unto thee But thou hast forgotten me and having forsaken my service hast molten down new gods whom thou honourest wherefore will I exterminate thee and abolish all thy posterity and cast them off for a prey unto the Dogs and the Fowls of the Air. For I will constitute a King over my people that shall leave no one of Jeroboams Race alive The people also shall have part of this punishment and shall be deprived of this their fruitful Countrey and be scattered amongst the Regions on the other side of Euphrates because they have followed the impieties of their King and adoring those gods that were forged by him have omitted to offer sacrifice unto me And F as concerning thy self O Woman haste thee and certifie thy husband of these things for thou shalt find thy son dead for no sooner shalt thou enter into the City but he shall finish his dayes He shall be buried with the lamentation of the whole people in general For he only was good of all the Race of Jeroboam When Achias had finished his Prophesie the Woman started back sore troubled and dismayed Ver. 17. through the danger of her son and went lamenting onward on her way to find out the King not considering that the more haste she made the more she hastened the death of her son who was not to expire till she arrived and according to the prediction of the Prophet she was not to expect to see him any more alive When as therefore she was arrived she found her son dead as the Prophet had foretold her and recited G the rest unto Jeroboam H CHAP. V. The year of the World 2988 before Christ's Nativity 976. Jeroboams Expedition against the son of Rehoboam the overthrow of his Army Basanes rooteth out the whole posterity of Jeroboam and maketh himself King BUT Jeroboam nothing moved therewith Alias chap. 6. levied a great Army with an intent to make War against Abias The expedition of Jeroboam against Abias King of Juda. the son of Rehoboam who had obtained his Fathers Kingdom over the two Tribes For he despised him because he was young Notwithstanding the young King who was no whit dismay'd although he was inform'd of Jeroboams coming with greater wisdom than was common to his years Ver. 1. ad 9. and beyond all expectation I of his forward Adversary Abias levied an Army against Jeroboam levied an Army out of the two Tribes with which he encountred Jeroboam at the Mountain of Samaria where incamping his Host near unto him he provided all things in a readiness that were requisite for the Battel and had with him four hundred thousand fighting Men 2 Chron. 13. 1 ad 4. but Jeroboam had twice as many Now when the Armies were ranged and expected orders to charge Abias stood up in a certain high place from whence he might be seen and heard and making a sign with his hand he required that Jeroboam and the people would first of all hear him peaceably which granted Ver. 5 ad 12. and each one attending in silence he brake out into these words There is none of you but knoweth Abias oration to the Hebrews wherein he upbraideth them of their superstition and forsâ—â—ing of their Religion that God hath promised the Kingdom to David and his posterity for ever I therefore greatly admire how you have revolted from my Father to submit your selves to Jeroboam K his servant whom at this present you accompany to war against those whom God had ordained to Reign and to take the Kingdom from them the greater part whereof Jeroboam usurpeth unjustly even at this day and which as I suppose he shall not enjoy long For God shall certainly punish him for those Crimes which he hath committed and which he continues daily to commit and to the imitation of which he endeavoreth to seduce you that follow him You have received no injury at my Fathers hands but by reason that he was
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
state CHAP. VII Athalia reigned five years in Jerusalem and after she was slain by the C High Priest Joas is proclaimed King AThalia Hedio Rufâ—â—â—us cap. 7. Achabs daughter hearing news of the death of her Brother Joram and her Son Ochozias together with he utter ruine of all the Royal posterity bethought her self to extinguish Davids memory 2 King 12. 1 2 3. and in such sort to root it out that no one of that line should remain alive to enjoy the Kingdom hereafter Athalia rooteth out all the royal blood only Joas Ochozias Son is saved which when she had concluded in her heart she began to put in execution Yet notwithstanding one of Ochozias Sons escaped her bloody hands by this means Ochozias had a sister by his fathers side whose name was Josabetha who was married to Joiada the High Priest who entring into the Kings Palace and finding Joas at that time but one year of age hidden with his D nurse among the dead she took both him and his nurse and locked them up in a closet within the Temple where Joiada her husband and she did secretly preserve them for the space of five years during which time Athalia reigned in Jerusalem over the two Tribes About the seventh year v. 4 ad 12. Joiada conferred with five Centurions and perswaded them to oppose themselves with mutual consent against Athalias proceedings Joas by Joiada's means who was the High Priest is created King and to secure the Kingdom for little Joas Whereupon giving and receiving promises of secrecy the one unto the other they confidently addressed themselves to execute their intended purposes after this manner They whom the High Priest had chosen to execute this fact went thorow all the Countrey and gathered the Priests and Levites together with all the Governours of the Tribes and afterwards returned and brought them to Jerusalem E to the High Priest who made them take an oath that they would keep secret that which he should inform them of as a thing that required secrecy and men of courage and resolution to perform the same As soon as he had assured them by oath he brought forth the little child whom he had till that time preserved and said unto them Behold your King who is of that race which as you know was chosen by God to reign over you for ever I therefore think it fit that the third part of your Guard shall keep him within the Temple and that the fourth make their watch round about the same Another company shall have the guard of the great gate that leadeth to the Palace as for the rest of the people let them remain disarmed within the Temple and suffer no armed men to enter thereinto except the Priest only He appointed also another company F of Priests and Levites to be about the King with Javelins and drawn swords charging them that whosoever durst be so bold to enter the Temple armed they should presently put him to the sword and laying all fear aside to attend the safety and guard of the Kings person They being obedient to that which the High Priest had commanded them in effect expressed their readiness whereupon Joiada opening the Arsenal which in times past was prepared by David distributed amongst the Centurions Levites and Priests all the javelins quivers and all other sort of Arms that were therein and disposed all them that were armed round about the people joyned hand in hand to hinder any one from entering in amongst them that were not of that faction Afterwards bringing out the infant Joas into the midst of the company they set the Royal Crown on his G head and Joiada after he had anointed him with oyl proclaimed him King whereupon all the people rejoyced and clapping their hands cried out God save the King H Athalia hearing this noise and applause The year of the World 3067. before Christ's Nativity 897. beyond all hope was greatly troubled and with those soldiers which she had about her she hastily issued out of the Palace and coming to the Temple the Priests admitted her as for the rest of the men of War that followed her they that by the High Priests ordinance begirt the Temple would not suffer them to enter with her v. 13. ad finem Now when Athalia saw the child standing before the Tabernacle with the Royal Crown on his head Athalias punishment she rent her garments and storming through despite she cried out and commanded that the Traitor should be slain that had thus betrayed her and sought to dispossess her of her Kingdom But Joiada called the Centurions and commanded them to carry Athalia out to the brook Cedron and there to kill her because he would not permit that the Temple should be defiled with her cursed I blood Moreover he charged them that if any one should attempt to rescue her they should kill them likewise v. 17. Hereupon they that were appointed to execute this his command took her The King and the people joyned by oath to serve God and led her without the gates of the Kings Mules and there slew her After that Athalia was in this manner executed Joiada assembled the people and the men of War in the Temple binding them all by an Oath to yield the King their faithful service and to procure the prosperity of the Kingdom Secondly he made the King swear in like manner that he would maintain the service of God and in no manner disanul Moses Laws That done they ran unto Baals Temple which Athalia and her husband Joram had built to the dishonour of God and their fore-fathers and for the honour of Achab and levelled it with the ground and put to death their High K Priest called Mathan The charge and guard of the Temple Joiada committed to the Priests and Levites v. 18. according to the other establisht by David with commandment twice a day to offer their ordinary burnt offerings The restoring of Gods service and to make perfumes according to the Law He appointed also certain of the Levites to be porters to guard the Temple to the intent that no unclean thing should enter the same unespied and after he had ordained these things with the Centurions and Governors and with all the people he took Joas and led him out of the Temple and attended him to the Palace and having placed him on the Royal Throne all the people cried God save the King and banquetted and feasted for divers dayes Thus after the death of Athalia the City was at quiet 2. King 12. 1â— ad 16. Joas was seven years old at such time as he was made King his mother was L called Sabia Joas piety during Joiâ—das time and was of the Town Bersabe He carefully observed the Laws and highly affected the service of God all his life time and when he grew to mans estate he
married two Wives which the High Priest gave him by whom he had Sons and Daughters This is all that I have thought good to declare as concerning Joas both how he escaped Athalias treasons and obtained the Kingdom CHAP. VIII Azael King of Damascus levyeth an Army and first of all assaulteth the Israelites and after marcheth forward against Jerusalem M BUt Azael King of Syria making War against the Israelites and against their King Jehu 2 King 12. 18. destroyed the Countrey on the other side of Jordan and all the Eastern tract inhabited by the Reubenites Hedio Ruffinus cap. 8. Gadites and Manassites Furthermore he burnt and spoiled Galaad The War between Azael and Jehu and Bathanaea violating and outraging all those that he met withall For Jehu went not out against him to resist him but being become a contemner of God and his Laws he died after he had reigned seven and twenty years over the Israelites he was buried in Samaria and left behind him Joas his Son to succeed him in his Kingdom But Joas King of Jerusalem was desirous to repair the Temple for which cause calling unto him Ioiada the High Priest he commanded him to send thorow all the Countrey the Levites and Priests and to levy upon every one of their heads half a sicle of silver for N the building and reparation of the Temple which was fallen to decay in Joram Athalia and her successors times 2 Choâ— 24. 4. ad 14. But the High Priest would not obey him herein knowing well no man would willingly disburs money But in the three and twentieth year of his reign The restoring of the Temple the King sent both for Joiada and the Levites also and expostulated with them for disobeying his commandment enjoyning them from that time forth to provide for the bulding of the Temple Whereupon the High Priest used present dispatch in levying the money wherewith the people were well pleased He therefore made a chest of wood closed on every side except that on the upper lid thereof there was a little cranny left open which he placed neer unto the Altar commanding that every one should offer according to his devotion and put in his offering thorow the cranny into O the coffer to be imployed in the repairing of the Temple whereunto all the people shewed themselves affectionate so that they gathered together a great quantity of Gold and Silver with great zeale and when the coffer was filled it was emptied and the account thereof taken and summ'd up by the Secretary and High Priest in the Kings presence The year of the World 3089. before Christ's Nativity 97â— A and afterwards was brought together into one place assigned for it which order was observed every day And when it was supposed that there was sufficient money gathered the High Priest Joiada and King Joas hired Masons and Carpenters and prepared great beams of excellent Timber After that the Temple was repaired they employed the remainder of Gold and Silver which was of no small quantity to make cups pots and vessels and other utensils and every day offered they sacrifice of great value upon the Altar and this custome was continued so long as Joiada lived But after his decease which hapned in the hundred and thirtieth year of his age Joas impiety after Joiadas death and how he was reproved by the Prophet after he had lived a just and upright life and was interred in the sepulchre of David in Jerusalem because he had established the Kingdom in B Davids posterity King Joas had no more care to serve God and with him the rest of the Governours of the people were corrupted so that they broke the laws and ordinances of their forefathers For which cause God being provoked by this change and incensed against the King and the rest 2 Chroâ— 24 17. ad 20. sent his Prophets unto them to protest against them and expostulate with them for their offences and to withdraw them from their iniquity But they pursued sin the more vehemently so that neither the punishments by which they who had offended God before-times had been plagued with all their posterities neither all the advertisements given them by the Prophets could induce them to amend or to forsake those sins wherein they were engaged but that which is worst King Joas stoned Zachary v. 21. Joiadas Son Zâ—chary stoned to death and put him to death in the Temple forgetting himself most ungratefully C of the benefits he had received from his Father And the occasion was for that Zachary having received a charge from God to prophesie came into the midst of the people and counâ—elled both them and him to follow justice foretelling them that they should be grievously punished except they did believe This Zachary did at his death call God to witness to judge of those calamities he endured suffering a violent death for the good counsel which he had given them and the benefits which his Father had in times past done unto Joas But many dayes passed not before the King suffered due punishment for these misdeeds For Azael King of the Syrians invaded his Countrey and after he had first of all ruinated Girta he marched forward with an intent to besiege him at last in Jerusalem Joas desperate of all succors emptied all the treasures of the D Temple and those of the Kings and took away the presents that were hung up in the Temple and sent them to the Syrians raising the siege by this means lest he should be drawn into hazard to lose all The spoil of the Temple The Syrians pacified with so great riches and abundant treasure Joas death suffered not his Army to pass to Jerusalem After this Joas was seized with a grievous sickness and to the intent that the death of Zachary the Son of Joiada might not escape unrevenged his friends conspired against him and he died by their hands He was entombed in Jerusalem but not in the sepulchre of his Ancestors because he had faln from God He lived seven and forty years CHAP. IX E Amasias King of Jerusalem made War against the Idumaeans and Amalechites and obtained the victory AMasias his Son succeeded him in the Kingdom 2 King 14. 1 ad 15. But in the 21 year of Joas's reign Ioachas the Son of Jehu took possession of the Kingdom of Israel in Samaria and reigned for the space of seventeen years Amasias King of Jerusalem But he followed not his Fathers steps but rather behaving himself impiously according as his predecessors in the Kingdom and contemners of God had done The forces of Israel weakned and restored by God For which cause the King of Syria subdued him and cut off a great part of his dominions and took his greatest Cities from him and defeated his Armies so that at length he had but ten thousand footmen and five hundred horsmen F All
them that they mocked them and esteemed them to be mad and spit upon those Prophets that exhorted them to piety and foretold them the evils they should suffer if they served not the true God and finally they laid hold on them and put them to the sword And not contenting themselves with this presumption they attempted yet far worser things and never gave over until that God for a punishment of their impiety subjected them to their enemies 2 Chron. 29. as shall appear hereafter But divers of the Tribes of Manasses Zabulon and Issachar The Word of God is never without fruit respecting the good counsels of the Prophets submitted themselves to the service of God and repaired all together to Jerusalem to King Ezechias to honour G God As soon as they were arrived there Ezechias went up into the Temple accompanied with the Governors and all the People and offered there seven Bulls seven Rams H and as many Goats The year of the World 3618. before Christ's Nativity 746. and after that he and all the Governors had laid their hands upon the heads of the Sacrifice they deliver'd them to the Priest according as it appertained to them and they sacrificed and made burnt-offerings of them The Levites also assisting round about with Instruments of Musick sung Hymns and Songs unto God according as they had been taught by the ordinance of David Ezechias's sacrifice The other Priests had Trumpets which they used in consort to the tune of their Hymns Which done the King and all the People cast themselves prostrate upon the ground 2 Chron. 29. â—â— 20 21. and adored God and afterwards sacrificed seven Oxen an 100 Sheep and 200 Lambs The King likewise bestowed 600 Oxen and 3000 sheep upon the People to feast withall And when the Priests had joyfully perform'd all things according to the custom contain'd in the Law I the King sate down and eat with the People and gave thanks unto God And when the feast of unleavened bread was come they eat the Passeover and during the seven other dayes Ver. 30 31. they offer'd up their other Sacrifices The King gave in way of gratuity unto the People besides that which had been offer'd 2000 Oxen Reformation of Gods service and 7000 Sheep The Governors did the like and gave the People a 1000 Bulls and 1400 Sheep and thus was the feast solemnized which had not been so magnificently and devoutly celebrated since Solomon's time When the solemnity of this feast was past they journeyed and went thorow the Countrey and purifi'd it They purged the City likewise of all Idols and the King ordained that the daily Sacrifices should be made according to the Law upon his charge He enacted also That the People should pay the Tenths to the Priests and Levites K with the first-fruits to the intent they might wholly intend piety and never estrange themselves from the service of God By which means it came to pass that the People brought all kind of fruit to the Priests and Levites The King overcometh the Philistines which the King put up in certain store-houses which he had built to be distributed to every one of them their Wives and Children and by this means they returned again to their former purity in Religion After the King had disposed all things in this sort 2 Kings 19. he made War upon the Philistines Ezechias forsaketh the service of the King of Assyria and overcame them and seized all their Cities between Gaza and Geth About this time the King of Assyria sent unto him and threatned him That if he would not pay those Tributes which his father before him had paid unto him he would destroy all his Countrey Nevertheless Ezechias set light by his threats assuring himself in that piety and zeal he bore L towards God and in the Prophet Esay by whom he was exactly instructed touching all those things that were to succeed CHAP. XIV Salmanasar slayeth the King of Israel and leadeth the Israelites captive into the Countrey of Media WHen tydings was brought to Salmanasar King of Assyria that the King of Israel had privily sent unto Soan Hedio Ruffinus cap. 5. King of Egypt to request his assistance against the M Assyrians he was sore displeased and drew forth his Army against Samaria in the seventh year of the Reign of Oseas But the King of Israel withstood his entrance into the City by which means he was besieged therein for three years space and finally Samaria was taken by force 2 Kings 17 24. in the ninth year of Oseas and the seventh of Ezechias's Reign At which time all the Kingdom of Israel was destroy'd and all the People transported into the Countries of Media and Persia and amongst the rest King Oseas was taken Prisoner The King of Assyria caused certain Nations of a Countrey called Chut so stiled from a River of that name to remove their habitation and to dwell in Samaria and inhabit the Countrey of Israel As for the ten Tribes of Israel they were transported out of their Countrey 947 years The Israelites removed from their possessions are translated into the Region of the Chuthites since their Predecessors departing out of Egypt possessed N the Countrey of Canaan 800 years after the government of Joshua and 240 years seven months and seven dayes since they revolted from Roboam Davids Nephew to give the Kingdom to Jeroboam This was the end of the Israelites who transgressed the Laws and disobeyed the Prophets who foretold them of that calamity which should happen unto them except they repented them of their impieties The sedition that they rais'd against Roboam in taking his servant for their King was the original of their mischiefs For Jeroboam committing impiety against God and they imitating his wickedness caused God to be displeas'd with them so that he punish'd them according as they deserved But the King of Assyria ravaged and spoiled all Syria and Phoenicia with his Army and his name is found written in the Chronicles of the Tyrians for he made War against the Tyrians O at such time as Eulaleus reigned in Tyre whereof Menander maketh mention who wrote the History of Tyre which hath been Translated into the Greek Tongue The King Eluleus saith he reigned 36 years The year of the World 3224. before Christ's Nativity 740. and pursued the Chutheans that were revolted from A him by Sea and made them subject Against whom the King of Assyria sent forth his Army and invaded all Phoenicia and afterwards having made a Peace with them he returned back again into the Cities of Sydon Arce and old Tyre and divers other Cities revolted from the Tyrians and submitted themselves to the King of Assyria For this cause The Tyrians Chronicles touching the Wars of Salmanaâ—ar against the Tyrians written by Menander and for that they of Tyre did not obey him he drew his Army
joy for his recovery pag. 829 CHAP. III. Caius abandons himself to all kind of Debauchery and with horrible ingratitude and dreadful cruelty constrains Tiberius Grandson to the Emperour Tiberius to kill himself pag. 830 CHAP. IV. Caius puts to death Macro Colonel of the Pretorian Guards to whom he was obliged both for his Empire and Life pag. 831 CHAP. V. Caius puts to death Marcus Syllanus his Father in Law because he gave him wise Counsel And that Murder is followed by many others pag. 833 CHAP. VI. Caius requires to be reverenc'd as a Demi-God pag. 834 CHAP. VII The folly of Caius increasing he requires to be worshiped as a God and imitates Mercury Apollo and Mars pag. 835 CHAP. VIII Caius enraged against the Jews because they would not reverence him as a Demi-god like other People pag. 837 CHAP. IX The Inhabitants of Alexandria take advantage of the displeasure of Caius to commit great cruelty and outrage upon the Jews They destroy most part of their Oratories and set up the Emperors Statues though no such thing had ever been attempted in the Reigns of Augustus or Tiberius The Praises of Augustus ibid. CHAP. X. Caius being already incensed against the Jews of Alexandria is much exasperated by the Calumnies of Helico formerly an Egyptian Slave but now in great favour with the Emperour pag. 840 CHAP. XI The Jews of Alexandria send Embassadors to Caius to represent their grievances of which number Philo was chief Caius receives them kindly in appearance but Philo judg'd very well that he was not to be trusted pag. 841 CHAP. XII Philo and his Collegues are informed that Caius had sent Orders to Petronius Governour of Syria to cause his Statue to be set up in the Temple of Jerusalem p. 842 CHAP. XIII Petronius being sensible of the Injustice and ill Consequences of it is much troubled about the execution of that Order pag. 844 CHAP. XIV Petronius Orders a Statue to be made but very slowly he endeavours to perswade the Jews to admit it but in vain The Jews assemble from all places unanimously conjuring him against the Execution of that Order and to give them leave to send Embassadors to the Emperour pag. 845 CHAP. XV. Petronius affected with their Reasons and thinking it unsafe to run them into despair writes to Caius on purpose to gain time Caius is inraged but dissembles it in his Answer to Petronius pag. 846 CHAP. XVI King Agrippa comes to Rome and finding from Caius his own mouth his design of Erecting his Statue in the Temple of Jerusalem He falls into fainting fits being recollected be writes to the Emperour pag. 848 CHAP. XVII Caius relents upon Agrippa's Letter writes to Petronius to alter nothing in the Temple but repents immediately He causeth a Statue to be made privately in Rome and sent as privately to Jerusalem when he was to go to Alexandria he continues his resolution to be owned there as a God His Injustice and Cruelty pag. 851 CHAP. XVIII The Passion wherewith Caius treated Philo and the rest of the Embassadors pag. 852 A TABLE of the Chiefest and most Memorable Things which are handled in This WORK A. AAron Moses brother 67. G. cometh to meet him ibid. 1. holdeth up Moses hands 77. A. elected High Priest 88. M. his sons 89. A. High Priesthood confirmed to him 102. K. giveth his Priestly Ornaments to Eleazar 104. I. his death ibid. K. Aarons Rod fructifieth 103. A. Abdon Judge of Israel 139. E. renowned for his issue ibid. F. Abel second son of Adam 29. B. is commended ibid. C. is slain by his brother and why ibid. C. Abias levieth an Army 223. I. overcometh Jeroboam ibid. N. dieth ibid. O. his issue ibid. Abiathar escapes Sauls hands 166. L. telleth David of his Families slaughter ibid. asketh counsel of God 173. B. dispossessed of the Priesthood 104. I. helps Adonias 199. D. Abigail pacifieth David 169. B. C. after married to David ibid. E. Abibu Aarons son burned 89. G. and why ibid. G. Abimelech King of Geraer enamoured of Sara 39. E. plagued for taking her ibid. E. made a covenant with Abraham ibid. G. expelleth Isaac his Country 43. F. after makes a league with him 44. I. Abimelech Gideons bastard son 137. B. killeth 69 of his brethren and usurpeth ibid. B. practiseth against the Sichemites ibid. E. slayeth him and sacketh their City ibid. G. burned the Sichemites fled to the rock 138. H. taketh Tabez ibid. K. is wounded and slain ibid. K. Abiram rebellious 101. C. he and those that were with him swallowed up 102. H. Abisai overcometh the Idumaeans 182. L. sent against the Ammonites 183. E. Abisaei's valour 197. A. Abisag nourisheth David 199. C. Abner Sauls Uncle 151. B. questioneth with Saul ibid. B. General of his Army 164. M. maketh Isboseth King 176. H. revolteth from Isboseth ibid. O. Killeth Azael ibid. K. perswadeth the Governours to create David King 177. B. is slain 177. D. E. Abraham son of Thares 35. C. tenth from Noe ibid. C. taught the Egyptians Religion and Arts 36. M. first Preacher of the word 35. F. his wisdom ibid. an Astronomer 36. M. and an Arithmetician ibid. M. his house 36. I. oppressed by Famine ibid. K. divided the Land with Lot 36. K. rescueth Lot from the Sodomites 37. E. son promised him ibid. F. foretold his progeny to be evil entreated 38. H. circumcised himself and Ismael 38. L. entertaineth Angels and entreateth for the Sodomites ibid. N. intended to offer his son 41. B. C. marrieth Chetura ibid. G. provideth a wife for his son 42. K. dieth 43. D. is commended ibid. Absence of David excused 164. L. Absalon killeth Amnon 186. O. fled to Gessur 187. C. revoked from banishment and how ibid. F. affecteth the Kingdom 188. K. proclaimed King ibid. L. passeth over Jordan 191. B. his overthrow 191. E. slain by Joab ibid. F. Abundance foretold 61. G. Abundance of Silver 216. M. Abundance of victuals foreshewed 239. M. affected 240. E. Abundance of victuals shewed 736. I. Acclamation of the people 463. A. Accusation of Laban against Jacob 47. D. of Jacob against him ibid. F. of Putifars wife against Joseph 54. H. of Doeg against Achimelech 166. I. of Aristobulus and Hircanus 362. E. F. of Antipater against his brethren 592. M. of Nicolaus 601. B. of Antipater against Archelaus 606. M. of the Jews 610. K. Achab. son of Amri King of Israel 225. N. followeth impieties ibid. took to wife Jezabel 226. B. seeketh Elias 227. H. covets Naboths vineyard 228. F. his repentance 229. K. twice overcometh the Syrians 213. C. D. reproved for dismissing Adad 231. K. imprisoneth Michaias and why 233. H. rejected his advice ibid. I. wounded dieth ibid. K. Achabs seventy sons 243. K. Achar stole the spoils dedicated to God 123. E. hid them in his tent ibid. found guilty and put to death 124. I. Achaz King of Judah sacrificeth his son 251. I. serves Idols ibid. overthrown in battel ibid. O. hireth Theglaphalasar ibid.
e. Ochozias King of Israel reproved and why 235 n o. his soldiers consumed ibid. m. 236 b. his death foretold 236 c. Ochozias King of Judah 241 n. visiteth Joram 242 c. slain ibid. g. Office of Judges 112 l m. of an Historiographer 359 g. of the Priests 70â— a. Off-spring of Noah Abraham c. look progeny Og King of Galadine 105 b. is slain with his army ib. b. his high stature and great strength ibid. b. Oil in the pot multiplyed 226 d. 237 o. Scalding Oil thrown on the Romans 668 m. Olda the Prophetess 259 l. Old man killeth his wife c. 387 k. Old and weak Jews slain 758 n. One sacred City one Temple and one Altar 111 b. Onias high Priest 296 b Onias high Priest 307 l. paid not his tribute ibid. Onias high Priest's son 323 i. wins the favour of Ptolomy 332 g. buildeth a Temple in Egypt 333 h. 777 n. Onias stoned to death 361 b. Ophni son of Eli 143 e. his impiety and wickedness ib. e. is slain 144 n. Opinion of the Esseans and Grecians of the soul 614 k l. Opinion of the Pharisees and Sadduces 477 b c. Opinion of the wisest Greeks c. 807 f. Oppression of the Israelites 133 a o. ibid. m. 135 b. 1 8 m. 139 f. of the Jews 631 e f. 622 h c. 623 a b. c. Oracle of God to Joshuah 124 h. Oracles of the Prophets to be reverenced 233 l. Oration of Abraham 41 b. of Ruben 56 m and 59 o. of Juda 59 b. c. of Joseph 60 i k. of Moses to the people 79 b. to the seditious 100 i c. of Zambrias 110 h. of Moses before his death 107 g. of the Gabeonites 124 n. of Josuah c. 127 b. of Phinees 127 g. of Samuel 148 i. 151 b. of Saul 165 f. of Abias 223 k. of Herod 401 b. 402 a c. 581 b. 582 l. of Nicholaus 424 i. 425 k. 456 m. 587 f. of Agrippa 626 g. of Joseph 640 i. 672 k c. of Titus 676 m. 684 l. of Ananus 687 e c. of Jesus 691 a. of Caesar c. 717 b. of Joseph to the Jews 728 n. 729 a. of Titus to the Jews 754 n. c. of Eleazar 773 f. Orchards 701 f. Order of the Romans 660 n. Order of the superior bodies 30 i. Order of the Army c. 95 a b. Order of the Carpenters Masons c. 207 d e. Order of the Cities of Galilee 638 m n. Order of Titus's Army 711 d e. Ordinance of Artaxerxes 287 n o. 291 l m. Ordinance of the Fathers transgressed 107 â— Oreb slain 136 l. Original of the Hebrews 35 b. Original of the Troglodytes 42 h. Original of the Israelites mischiefs 253 n. Original of the Grecian laws 807 e. Original of the Jews laws 815 b. Ornaments of the high Priest 87 a b c c. Ornaments of Solomon's Palace 213 c. Oronna or Orphana a Jebusite spared 179 g. giveth David his floor 198 i k. Oseas King of Israel overcome 252 o. made tributary ibid. c. taken prisoner 253 m. his subjects transported and why ibid. n o. Oath how in time past taken 42 k. Oath taken to observe the law 119 b. 259 m. Oath how and when to be kept 132 i. Oath of Jonathan to David 164 k l. Oath of Sâ—nacharib falsified 255 m. Oath observed 452 m. Otho Emperor 705 f. slain ibid. Overthrow of the Sodomites 33 a b. of the Amorites 104 m. of the Hebrews 98 n. and 173 f. of Antony 403 m. Outrages of Elies sons 143 f. of Naas offered the Israelites 152 h. of Azael 245 m. 246 f g. of Florus Soldiers 623 c. Outward Court of the Temple c. 721 d. Oxen seven what do signifie 55 e. how many taken at once 109 a. not to be muzled 113 f. Ox that striketh 117 b Oza suddenly strucken dead 180 n. and why ibid. Ozias King of Juda's warlike exploits 249 l m. acts and studies ib. n o. stricken with a leprosie and why 250 b. enjoyned to depart the City ib. and 250 b. his death and burial 250 c. P. Pacorus sendeth horsmen to Antigonus 380 f. 572 i. his perswasion to Phaselus 381 i. his treason and subtilty ib. k l. 572 m. Pageants built 766 l. Painters cause multitude of gods 813 â— Palestine whence took his name 34 m. Philistines overcome the Israelites 139 f. 144 m. invade the Israelites 144 i. are overcome 155 c d. 160 m. 180 i k. Palace in Tiberias burned 943 a. Palace built in Jerusalem 414 b. Palace of Solomon 212 g. Palace of the King 719 d. burned ibid. e. Palm-trees 701 d f. Pamphilian Sea divided it self 72 n. Pappus beheaded 389 k. 5780. Paradise 28 i. where situate ibid. k. adorned with all sorts of plants ibid. l. Parents compelled to murder their children 63 a. Paricide a publick injury 457 d. Paricides 256 f. Parthians restore Antigonus 380 f. 373 f. complâ—t treachery against Phasaelus 381 k l. surprize him and Hircanus ibid. n. lay a plot for Herod 382 a. lose Armenia 483 d. Parts of the Temple 209 i. Pascha or Passover of the Hebrews 70 i k. celebrated 253 h. 269 a. 281 k. Passage of the Isralites over Jordan 122 l m. Passages stopped up from the Hebrews 71 d. Patience of Joseph 54 k. Pauliâ—â— deceived and defiled 481 c d. Peace bought 245 n. 250 e. Peace of the Israelites 206 i. of the Jews 231 n. Peace better than War 691 d. A Penalty most cruel 61o c. Penalty of a woman married for a Virgin c. 114 m. Penalty published 15â— d. what it wrought ibid. Pensioner to Saul David 159 b. Penitent obtain mercy 731 a. Penury of water 582 â— see want People of Israel afflicted 62 m. 63 a b. 67 a. 68 i k. departed out of Egypt 71 b. exhorted to put their trust in God ibid. f g. and to obey the will of God 110 i k. c. drive away the Cattel of the Amalechites 157 b. require mitigation of their burthen 218 d. revolt from Roboam 219 i. are transported and why 253 n. fly with their money 731 c. People enjoyned by oath to serve God 245 k. 259 m. People of Judah bless God 235 k l. and why ibid. l. Peoples love to Joseph 18 h. People permit not Pilate to alter their laws 615 d. People exclaim against Florus 624 h. die for want c. 727 â— Perfection of mind respected 158 l. Perjury of Florus 622 k. Peroration of Herod 581 e. of Joseph 672 o. Perplexity of the Israelites 71 d. Perswasion of Jeroboam to Idolatry 219 m. Perswasion of false Prophets dangerous 233 l m. Perswasion of Rapsaces 255 o. Pestilence one of the Plagues of Egypt 69 e. Pestilence destroyeth Senacherib's Army 256 f. Pestilence a great affliction 253 k. Petra a City of Arabia 573 d Petronius's charge for placing Caius's statue 494 l. c. executeth it not and why 494 m n. certifieth the
a. fleeth to Raguel and why 66 k. marrieth his daughter ib. sent to deliver the Israelites 67 d. confirmed in his calling ibid. a b perswadeth Pharaoh to dismiss the Israelites 68 i. worketh miracles ibid. k l m. instituteth the Passover 70 i k. conducteth the Israelites 71 b c. exhorteth them ib. f. prayeth to God 72 i. leadeth them thorow the red sea ib. k. praises God ib. n. sacrificed to God in Sinai ib. o beseecheth God to sweeten the waters 73 g. putteth the people in mind of God's benefits â—4 m. imploreth God's help ibid. o. striketh the Rock bringeth out water 75 f. encourageth the Israelites 76 l. lifting up his hands c. 77 a. ascendeth Sinai 78 m. how long remaineth there 80 h. fasted ib. asketh counsel of God c. 90 o. numbreth the people 94 o. sendeth spies to search the land 96 i. retires the people into the desart 99 a. sendeth forces against the Madianites 108 m. appointeth to Joshuah his successor 109 b. exhorteth the people to obedience 110 l. sweareth them to keep the law 119 b. exhorteth Josuah ibid. d. dieth 119 f g. Mother eateth her child 239 i. 748 o. Mother of the seven brethren 824 n. 825 b. 826 h i c. Mourning of Ruben for Joseph 52 l. of the Romans 637 b. of them in Jerusalem 711 a. Mourning for thirty days 115 e. Mourning for Moses's death 119 g. for Saul and his sons 174 f. for Abner's 177 g. for Herod's 462 n o. Mountain of Sinai 66 n. 77 e. Mounts builded lost 734 h. Mounts raised near the Temple 746 k. Multiplication of Jacob's posterity 63 d. Multitude of business 77 g. of dead carcasses 740 h. Mundus deâ—ileth Paulina 481 d c. banished ibid. Murmure of the Israelites 74 i. 96 m. Murther of Simeon and Levi 49 c. Murther of Azael 176 k. of Abner 177 e. of Joram's brethren 241 l. of infants foretold 240 g. Murther of Saul punished 175 e. of Isboseth 178 l. Musick by whom invented 29 g. Mutability of fortune 682 h i. Mutiny in Chore and his complices 99 d e c. Mutiny about the golden Eagle 460 h. Mutiny against Archelaus 463 f g c. N. Nahas King of the Ammonites 152 i. his outrages offered the Israelites ib. 1. proposed hard conditions of peace 151 i k granteth to the Inhabitants of Jabes a truce ib. k. is slain 152 o. Nabal's flock spared 168 m. his currish answer to David's men ibid. n. died for grief 169 â— Nabathaea the countrey of Ismael's posterity 40 l. Nabathaeans spoiled 3â—0 b. Naboth falsly accused 228 f. stoned to death ibid g. Nabuchadonosor King of Babylon 260 g. vanquisheth Nechao ib. 261 h. exacteth tribute and slayeth Joachim 261 h. establisheth Joachin King ib. n. besiegeth and destroyeth Jerusalem 264 d. 265 h. dreameth a dream 268 d. erecteth an Idol 269 m. conversed with beasts ib. o. conquereth the rebels 78â— e. builded a palace 788 i. besiegeth Tyre ibid. n. his death 270 a. Nadab Aaron's son burned and why 90 i. Nadab Jeroboam's son 224 h. his impiety and death ibid. i. Name of Saul famous 152 o. Naming of the creatures 28 h. Names of Regions and Nations 33 f. Naomi her sorrow 142 n. returneth into her countrey 143 n. her counsel to Ruth 143 b. Norbanus for the Jews 432 l. Narration of the Arabian wars 443 a. Nathan the Prophet 18â— b. forbiddeth David to build the Temple ibid. c. reproved David 185 â— Nativity of Jacob and Esau 43 i. two Nations proceed of them ibid. â— Nation of the Jews mixed with all people 747 b. Nations whence descended 33 g c. Nature forbids a man to kill himself 672 l. Nature of the Idumaeans 690 m. Navy of Solomon 215 b. Naum the Prophet 250 g. foretelleth the overthrow of the Assyrians ibid. g. Nazarites 103 e. Nechao his exploits 260 c. is overcome ibid. g. 261 h. 262 f. Necessity a sharp weapon 663 f. Neglect of God's service cause of all evil 219 n. Negligence of Saul's guard 169 f g. Nehemiah his sadness and why 284 e. inciteth the people to build the walls 285 i. his ardent care in building them 285 k. his death ibid n. Nemrod 33 a b. son of Chus 34 m. Nephanes and Sabach David's Captains 196 b c. Nephews of Jacob 61 b. of Herod 594 m. Nephthalim the son of Jacob 46 n. his sons 61 b. Nero proclaimed Emperour 536 k. his murthers ibid. l. 620 h. amazed at the acts of the Jews 657 â— sendeth Vespasian to govern Syria 657 f. Nicanor laboureth to surprise Judas 324 â— slain 325 i. Nicanor known to Joseph 671 m. Nicanor wounded 723 c. Nicaule Queen of Aethiopia 215 c. resorteth to Solomon ibid. d. wondereth and praiseth Solomon's wisdom 215 d e. giveth him presents ibid. f. Nicholaus's Oration 424 i. Nicholaus the Historiographer reproved 433 c Nicholaus accuseth Syllaeus excuseth Herod 442 n. prosecuteth the King's accusation 456 m. excuseth Archelaus 466 k. 607 b. defendeth Herod and Archelaus 459 b. 607 b. Nicon the Romans great Ram 725 c. Nigar slain c. â—97 b. Nilâ—s 28 k. maketh Egypt fertile 61 f. how far navigable 694 k. Nineveh admonished 249 k. her destruction prophesied 250 f. effected 251 h. Nisan a month with the Hebrews 70 i. Noah the son of Lamech 30 o. admonisheth the wicked ibid. l. buildeth the Ark n. saved with all his houshold ibid. o. sendeth out a Crow and a Dove 31 e. the tenth from Adam 30 o. sacrificeth to God 31 e. prayeth to God 32 i. is heard ib. k. God's covenant with him ib. k. his age 31 l. his three sons 32 o. his kind of life 34 o. was drunken and derided 34 o. Nob a City of the Priests burnt 169 c d Nobility slain by the thieves 686 m. 12000 slain 695 f. Nobility of the Jews fly to the Romans 744 n. Nobles repair to David 178 o. Nobles shut up by Herod 460 n. 602 n. released 462 m. 603 b. Nothing attempted by the Romans rashly 661 d 682 k. Number of the children of Israel 70 l. from twenty to fifty years of age 89 b. of David's souldiers 179 a. of workmen 207 d e. of Jews that returned from captivity 275 f l. of high Priests 540 n. of the captives and slain in Jerusalem 759 b c. Nuptial feast 46 l. O Obed-Edom's felicity 180 n. Obed begat Jesse 143 eâ— Obed a King of Arabia 354 b. discomfits Alexander ibid. Obediah hideth the Prophets 227 i. Obedience of Abraham 40 o. Obedience to Magistrates 110 l m. Obedience of the Roman soldier 661 a b. Obimes Jeroboams son 222 d. falleth sick and dyeth ibid. g. Obodas King of Arabia 435 b. given to idleness ibid. â— 438 o. Obsequies of Herod 462 n Observers of God's Laws rewarded 26 i. Occasion of the Jews war 623 a. Occasion of victory what 661 f. Occasion of violences 687 e f. Occurrences of Kingdoms and Commonweals 25 f. and 106 m. Occurrences of Jeremy 260 d