1 Chronicles 21:2-4

Amplified Bible, Classic Edition

² David said to Joab and the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beersheba to Dan, and bring me the total, that I may know it.

³ And Joab answered, May the Lord multiply His people a hundred times! But, my lord the king, are they not all my lord’s servants? Why then does my lord require this? Why will he bring guilt upon Israel?

⁴ But the king’s word prevailed against Joab. So Joab departed and went throughout all Israel and came to Jerusalem.