6. But Joab did not include Levi and Benjamin in the numbering, because the king’s command was repulsive to him.
7. This command was also evil in the sight of God; so he punished Israel.
8. Then David said to God, ‘I have sinned greatly by doing this. Now, I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing.’
9. The Lord said to Gad, David’s seer,
10. ‘Go and tell David, “This is what the Lord says: I am giving you three options. Choose one of them for me to carry out against you.” ’
11. So Gad went to David and said to him, ‘This is what the Lord says: “Take your choice: