It is not clear whether David or Hadadezer took the initiative.1 It is possible that David engaged in a military expedition to the Euphrates in order to extend his territory in line with the promises made to Abraham and Moses (Genesis 15:18; Exodus 23:31; Deuteronomy 1:7; Deuteronomy 11:24; Joshua 1:4).2 At the same time, Hadadezer could have gone out to establish his power (an idea that is suggested by the previous conflict between him and Saul in 1 Samuel 14:47).
3 David also defeated Hadadezer the son of Rehob, king of Zobah, as he went to restore his power at the river Euphrates.