23. During that time, the officials of the king of Aram gave him advice. They said, "The gods of Israel are gods of the hills. That's why they were too strong for us. But suppose we fight them on the flatlands. Then we'll certainly be stronger than they are.
24. "Here's what you should do. Don't let any of the kings continue as military leaders. Have other officers take their places.
25. You must also put another army together. It should be just like the one you lost. It should have the same number of horses and chariots. Then we'll be able to fight against Israel on the flatlands. And we'll certainly be stronger than they are." Ben-Hadad agreed with their advice. He did what they suggested.
26. The next spring Ben-Hadad brought together the men of Aram. They went up to the city of Aphek to fight against Israel.