²⁵ The sons of Benjamin gathered to the rear of Abner into a single formation, and they took their stand atop one of the hills.

²⁶ Abner called to Joab, “Must the sword consume forever? Do you not understand that a bitter taste will result in the end? How long will you refuse to command the people to withdraw from chasing their brothers?”

²⁷ Joab responded, “As God lives, I assure you that if you had not said this, the people would have each pursued his brother throughout the night.”