4
The land had rest all the days of Simon. He sought the good of his nation; his rule was pleasing to them, as was the honor shown him, all his days.
5
To crown all his honors he took Joppa for a harbor, and opened a way to the isles of the sea.
6
He extended the borders of his nation, and gained full control of the country.
7
He gathered a host of captives; he ruled over Gazara and Beth-zur and the citadel, and he removed its uncleanness from it; and there was none to oppose him.
8
They tilled their land in peace; the ground gave its increase, and the trees of the plains their fruit.
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.