David’s Capture of Jerusalem

David(A) and all Israel marched to Jerusalem (that is, Jebus(B)); the Jebusites who inhabited the land were there. The inhabitants of Jebus said to David, “You will never get in here.” Yet David did capture the stronghold of Zion, that is, the city of David.

David said, “Whoever is the first to kill a Jebusite will become chief commander.” Joab(C) son of Zeruiah went up first, so he became the chief.

Then David took up residence in the stronghold; therefore, it was called the city of David. He built up the city all the way around, from the supporting terraces to the surrounding parts, and Joab restored the rest of the city. David steadily grew more powerful,(D) and the Lord of Hosts was with him.

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David Captures Jerusalem

Later, David and all of Israel marched to Jerusalem (then known as Jebus, where the Jebusites lived when they inhabited the land). The inhabitants of Jebus told David, “You’re not coming in here!” Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion, now known as the City of David.

David had announced, “Whoever first attacks the Jebusites will be appointed chief and commander.” When Zeruiah’s son Joab went up first, he became chief. David occupied[a] the fortress, so it was named the City of David after him. He built up the walls surrounding the city in a complete circle from the terrace ramparts,[b] and Joab repaired the rest of the city. David became more and more prestigious because the Lord of the Heavenly Armies was with him.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Chronicles 11:7 Or lived in
  2. 1 Chronicles 11:8 Lit. the Millo, fortified areas of ancient Jerusalem with terraces and retaining walls