4
However, the king overruled Joab. So Joab left, went throughout Israel, and returned to Jerusalem.
5
Joab reported the census figures to David: In Israel there were 1,100,000 men who could serve in the army, and in Judah there were 470,000 who could serve in the army.
6
Joab didn't include Levi and Benjamin in the number because he was disgusted with the king's order.
7
God considered the census to be sinful, so he struck Israel [with a plague].
8
David said to God, "I have committed a terrible sin by doing this thing. Forgive me because I have acted very foolishly."