1 Holofernes the general of the Assyrian army was told that the Israelites, in preparation for war, had closed off the mountain passes, fortified all the high hilltops, and set up roadblocks in the plains.
2
Filled with anger, he called together all the rulers of Moab, the commanders of Ammon, and all the governors of the coastlands.
3
He said to them, "Tell me, you Canaanites: Who are these people living in the highlands? In what cities do they dwell? How big is their army? Where does their strength and power lie? Who is set up as their king, leading their army?
4
And why—unlike all those living in the west—have they refused to come and meet me?"