to exact tithes and homage from Israel.68 It was the fusion of the worship of Yahweh with the cult of ’Ēl ‘Elyôn in the reign of David that gave occasion for the interpolation, according to J.A. Emerton.69 Its aim was to encourage the Israelites to accept this fusion, to recognise the status of Jerusalem and to acknowledge that David was a king who inherited the royal and priestly status of Melchiṣedeq. It also aimed at encouraging the Canaanites to acknowledge David and to accept the Israelites.