David Defeats Enemies, Extends Territory

After David had been established on the throne he enjoyed a period of peace that was utilized for the organization and up—building of his kingdom. Realizing the strength of Israel, the surrounding nations refrained from attack, and David contented himself with affairs within his realm. At length, however, he decided to reduce his enemies to submission so that they would not be in a position to attack whenever the opportunity might present itself. The Philistines were defeated and made tributary, and part of their territory was annexed to Israel.

David had previously enjoyed friendly relations with Moab, the Moabites having provided an asylum for his father and mother while he was a fugitive from Saul (1 Sam. 22:3, 4). The cause of David's change of attitude toward Moab is not certainly known. There is a Jewish tradition to the effect that the Moabites had proved false to their trust and had slain David's father and mother. For this there is no verification. It may also be true that in David's war with the Philistines, Moab was guilty of some treachery, and thus became the object of his next determined attack.

God gave great victory to David. He continued to stretch the borders of Israel bringing these nations into submission: Syria, Moab, the Philistines, Amalek, and Zobah.