9. The Ammonites marched out and lined up for battle at the entrance of the city, while the kings who had come to their help remained apart in the open field.
10. When Joab saw that there was a battle line both in front of and behind him, he chose some of the best fighters among the Israelites and lined them up against the Arameans;
11. the rest of the army, which he placed under the command of his brother Abishai, then lined up to oppose the Ammonites.
12. And he said: “If the Arameans prove too strong for me, you must come and save me; and if the Ammonites prove too strong for you, I will save you.
13. Hold firm and let us show ourselves courageous for the sake of our people and the cities of our God; and may the Lord do what is good in his sight.”