First Chronicles 18–20 follows up on the statements made in the dynastic oracle in chapter 17, showcasing Yahweh’s fulfilling his promise to subdue all David’s enemies and make his name great on the earth (see 1 Chron. 17:8, 10) and revealing why David’s involvement in blood and war (1 Chron. 22:8–10) will make his son Solomon the candidate for building the temple (1 Chron. 17:11–12). David’s many victories will provide the peace essential for the building projects Solomon will undertake and also the wealth necessary for such projects. The first section of chapter 18, 18:1–6, focuses on David’s military victories over the Philistines (Gath), Moab, Zobah, and Damascus, groups representative of southwestern (Philistines), southeastern (Moab), and northern (Zobah/Damascus) powers outside tra…