29
Two years later the king sent to the cities of Judah a chief collector of tribute, and he came to Jerusalem with a large force.
30
Deceitfully he spoke peaceable words to them, and they believed him; but he suddenly fell upon the city, dealt it a severe blow, and destroyed many people of Israel.
31
He plundered the city, burned it with fire, and tore down its houses and its surrounding walls.
32
And they took captive the women and children, and seized the cattle.
33
Then they fortified the city of David with a great strong wall and strong towers, and it became their citadel.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.