Rehoboam remained in Jerusalem and had fortifications built for the following cities of Judah and Benjamin:

Bethzur, Soco, Adullam,

Adoraim, Lachish, Azekah,

He told the people of Judah, "Let us fortify the cities by building walls and towers, and gates that can be shut and barred. We have control of the land because we have done the will of the LORD our God. He has protected us and given us security on every side." And so they built and prospered.

Uzziah strengthened the fortifications of Jerusalem by building towers at the Corner Gate, at the Valley Gate, and where the wall turned.

He also built fortified towers in the open country and dug many cisterns, because he had large herds of livestock in the western foothills and plains. Because he loved farming, he encouraged the people to plant vineyards in the hill country and to farm the fertile land.

Now then, give me the hill country that the LORD promised me on that day when my men and I reported. We told you then that the race of giants called the Anakim were there in large walled cities. Maybe the LORD will be with me, and I will drive them out, just as the LORD said."

Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him the city of Hebron as his possession.

Soon afterward Mary got ready and hurried off to a town in the hill country of Judea.