16 The five kings ran away and hid in the cave at Makkedah.
17 Someone told Joshua, “The five kings have been found. They are hiding in the cave at Makkedah.”
18 Joshua replied, “Roll large stones against the mouth of the cave, and post a guard there.
19 But don’t stop. Chase your enemies! Cut off their rear guard. Don’t let them get back into their own cities, because the Lord your God has handed them over to you.”
20 Joshua and the Israelites defeated them decisively, almost destroying them. But some who survived got back into the fortified cities.
21 Then the whole army returned safely to Joshua in the camp at Makkedah. Not a single person dared to speak against any of the Israelites.
22 Joshua said, “Open the cave, and bring me the five kings!”