So, in 2 Samuel 8: David is really flexin' his king muscles and doing what kings do best - making other kings pay. He goes to war with two of them and ends up winning big time. He takes all their stuff and adds it to his own, giving Israel a big boost. Then he makes a deal with king Hadadezer of Damascus, which gives Israel even more power. He also makes a covenant with King Hiram of Tyre, who gives him cedar and masts for his ships. In exchange, David gives him wheat, barley, and olive oil. David is really racking up the points and establishing himself as a major player in the region. All in all, it's a good chapter for the King of Israel.