The Philistines defeated in the Valley of Rephaim

17When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, they all went in search of him; but David learned of this and went down to the stronghold.

18Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim.

19So David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go,” replied the LORD, “for I will surely deliver the Philistines into your hand.”

20So David went to Baal-perazim, where he defeated the Philistines and said, “Like a bursting flood, the LORD has burst out against my enemies before me.” So he called that place Baal-perazim.

21There the Philistines abandoned their idols, and David and his men carried them away.

22Once again the Philistines came up and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim.

23So David inquired of the LORD, who answered, “Do not march straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the balsam trees.

24As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move quickly, because this will mean that the LORD has marched out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines.”

25So David did as the LORD had commanded him, and he struck down the Philistines all the way from Gibeon to Gezer.

8When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, they all went in search of him; but David learned of this and went out to face them.

9Now the Philistines had come and raided the Valley of Rephaim.

10So David inquired of God, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go,” replied the LORD, “for I will deliver them into your hand.”

11So David and his men went up to Baal-perazim, where he defeated the Philistines and said, “Like a bursting flood, God has burst out against my enemies by my hand.” So they called that place Baal-perazim.

12There the Philistines abandoned their gods, and David ordered that they be burned in the fire.

13Once again the Philistines raided the valley.

14So David again inquired of God, who answered him, “Do not march up after them, but circle around them and attack them in front of the balsam trees.

15As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle, because this will mean that God has marched out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines.”

16So David did as God had commanded him, and they struck down the army of the Philistines all the way from Gibeon to Gezer.

17And David’s fame went out into every land, and the LORD caused all nations to fear him.