18. The people went across the Jordan River to help bring the king’s family back to Judah. They did whatever the king wanted. While the king was crossing the river, Shimei son of Gera came to meet him. He bowed down to the ground in front of the king.
19. Shimei said to the king, “My lord, don’t think about the wrong things I did. My lord and king, don’t remember the bad things I did when you left Jerusalem.
20. I know that I sinned. That is why today I am the first person from Joseph’s family to come down and meet you, my lord and king.”
21. Abishai son of Zeruiah said, “Let’s kill him for all the bad things he said about the Lord’S chosen king.”
22. David said, “What should I do with you, sons of Zeruiah? Are you trying to cause me trouble? No one will be put to death in Israel today! Today I know that I am king over Israel.”