David’s census
1 A heavenly Adversary arose against Israel and incited David to count Israel.
2
So David told Joab and the leaders of the people, "Go throughout all the tribes of Israel, from Dan to Beer-sheba, and take a census of the people so I know how many people there are."
3
But Joab replied, "May the LORD increase his people a hundred times! Sir, aren't you the king, and aren't they all your servants? Why do you want to do this? Why bring guilt on Israel?"
4
But the king overruled Joab, who left and traveled throughout all Israel. When he returned to Jerusalem,
5
he reported to David the total number: there were 1,100,000 men available for military service in all Israel, while Judah alone had 470,000.
6
He didn't include Levi and Benjamin among them, because Joab disagreed with the king's order.
7
God was offended by this census and punished Israel.
8
Then David said to God, "I have sinned greatly in what I have done! Now please take away the guilt of your servant because I have done something very foolish."