The exact nature of this part of the fortifications of Jerusalem is not known, but it seems to have been a particularly strong place of defense, which played an important role in the fortifications of the city (see on 2 Sam. 5:9; 1 Kings 9:15; 11:27).

 

 David extended his sway until nations from the river of Egypt to the Euphrates paid tribute. Solomon, who erected the Temple, increased the kingdom’s prestige. For the difference between the extent of this map and that of The Empire of David and Solomon, see explanations of the Euphrates boundary (on 2 Sam. 8:3; 1 Kings 4:21).

 

At Solomon’s death the northern 10 tribes seceded. The kingdom of Israel lasted 200 years, Judah some 350.