The House of David Grows Stronger

3 The battle was prolonged between the house of Saul and the house of David, but David was growing stronger and stronger[fn] while the house of Saulwas becoming weaker and weaker.[fn] 2 And sons were born to David in Hebron; his firstborn was Amnon by Ahinoam from Jezreel[fn]. 3 His second was Kileab by Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite; the third was Absalom the son of Maacah, who was the daughter of Talmai the king of Geshur. 4 The fourth was Adonijah the son of Haggith; the fifth was Shephatiah the son of Abital. 5 The sixth was Ithream by Eglah the wife of David. These were born to David in Hebron.

6 As the war between the house of Saul and the house of David was continuing, Abner was strengthening himself in the house of Saul. 7 Saul had had a concubine, and her name was Rizpah the daughter of Aiah. Then Ish-Bosheth[fn] said to Abner, “Whydid you have sex with[fn] my father’s concubine?” 8 Abner became very angry[fn] at the words of Ish-Bosheth, and he said, “Am I the head of a dog which is for Judah today? Do I not continue to show loyal love with the house of Saul your father, to his brothers, and to his friends? I have not let you fall into the hands of David, yet you have accused me of sin with this woman[fn] today. 9 Thus may God punish Abner,[fn]if I do not accomplish what Yahweh has sworn to David;[fn] 10 specifically, to transfer the kingdom from the house of Saul and to establish the throne of David over Israel and over Judah from Dan to Beersheba!” 11 And Ish-Bosheth was no longer able to answer[fn] Abnerbecause he feared him.[fn]