Before resolving the tension introduced in chapter 13, the Chronicler reminds the reader of the divine blessing on David, expressed here as elsewhere in Chronicles through depictions of building activity, abundant progeny, and military victory. While chapters 11–12 focused on the support David enjoyed within the nation, chapter 14 begins and ends with notes on the respect he receives from surrounding nations (14:1, 17). In 14:1 David receives messengers and artisans from Hiram’s royal court at Tyre, signaling his newfound status among the kings of the ancient Near East. In light of this the Chronicler provides a summative note in 14:2, describing David’s realization that his …