Sheba’s Rebellion 1Now a worthless man named Sheba son of Bichri, a Benjamite, happened to be there, and he blew the ram’s horn and shouted: “We have no share in David, no inheritance in Jesse’s son. Every man to his tent, 2So all the men of Israel deserted David to follow Sheba son of Bichri. But the men of Judah stayed by their king all the way from the Jordan to Jerusalem. 3When David returned to his palace in Jerusalem, he took the ten concubines he had left to take care of the palace, and he placed them in a house under guard. He provided for them, but he no longer slept with them. They were confined until the day of their death, living as widows. 4Then the king said to Amasa, “Summon the men of Judah to come to me within three days, and be here yourself.” 5So Amasa went to summon Judah, but he took longer than the time allotted him. 6And David said to Abishai, “Now Sheba the son of Bichri will do us more harm than Absalom. Take your lord’s servants and pursue him, or he will find fortified cities and elude us.a” 7So Joab’s men, along with the Cherethites, the Pelethites, and all the mighty men, marched out of Jerusalem in pursuit of Sheba son of Bichri. 8And while they were at the great stone in Gibeon, Amasa joined them. Now Joab was dressed in military attire, with a dagger strapped to his belt. And as he stepped forward, he slipped the dagger from its sheath.b 9“Are you well, my brother?” Joab asked Amasa. And with his right hand Joab grabbed Amasa by the beard to kiss him. 10Amasa was not on guard against the dagger in Joab’s hand, and Joab stabbed him in the stomach and spilled out his intestines on the ground. And Joab did not need to strike him again, for Amasa was dead. Then Joab and his brother Abishai pursued Sheba son of Bichri. 11One of Joab’s young men stood near Amasa and said, “Whoever favors Joab, and whoever is for David, let him follow Joab!” 12But Amasa wallowed in his blood in the middle of the road, and when the man saw that all the troops were stopping there, he dragged the body off the road into a field and threw a garment over it. 13As soon as Amasa’s body was removed from the road, all the men went on with Joab to pursue Sheba son of Bichri. 14Sheba passed through all the tribes of Israel to Abel-beth-maacahc and through the entire region of the Berites,d who gathered together and followed him. 15And Joab’s troops came and besieged Sheba in Abel-beth-maacah and built a siege ramp against the outer rampart of the city. As all the troops with Joab were battering the wall to topple it, 16a wise woman called out from the city, “Listen! Listen! Please tell Joab to come here so that I may speak with him.” 17When he had come near to her, the woman asked, “Are you Joab?” “I am,” he replied. “Listen to the words of your servant,” she said. “I am listening,” he answered. 18Then the woman said, “Long ago they used to say, ‘Seek counsel at Abel,’ and that is how disputes were settled. 19I am among the peaceable and faithful in Israel, but you are trying to destroy a city that is a mother in Israel. Why would you swallow up the LORD’s inheritance?” 20“Far be it!” Joab declared. “Far be it from me to swallow up or destroy! 21That is not the case. But a man named Sheba son of Bichri, from the hill country of Ephraim, has lifted up his hand against the king, against David. Deliver him alone, and I will depart from the city.” “Look,” the woman replied, “his head will be thrown to you over the wall.” 22Then the woman went to all the people with her wise counsel, and they cut off the head of Sheba son of Bichri and threw it to Joab. So he blew the ram’s horn and his men dispersed from the city, each to his own home. And Joab returned to the king in Jerusalem. 23Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites; 24Adorame was in charge of the forced labor; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder; 25Shevaf was the scribe; Zadok and Abiathar were priests; 26and Ira the Jairiteg was David’s priest. Footnotes: 6 a Or and snatch away our eyes or and do us serious harm 8 b Literally Now Joab was dressed in military attire, and over it was a belt around his waist with a dagger in its sheath. And as he stepped forward, it fell out. 14 c Hebrew to Abel and Beth-maacah; see verse 15. 14 d Hebrew; LXX and Vulgate Bicrites 24 e Adoram is a variant of Adoniram and Hadoram; see 1 Kings 4:6 and 2 Chronicles 10:18. 25 f Sheva is also called Seraiah, Shisha, and Shavsha; see 2 Samuel 8:17, 1 Kings 4:3, and 1 Chronicles 18:16. 26 g Hebrew; some LXX manuscripts and Syriac Ithrite; see 2 Samuel 23:38. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  2 Samuel 20 Summary Sheba's RebellionVerses 1–2 – Sheba’s Revolt Ignites Verse 3 – David’s Household Ordered Verses 4–7 – Amasa Delays, Joab Mobilizes Verses 8–13 – Amasa Murdered, Joab Assumes Command Verses 14–22 – Siege of Abel Beth Maakah and Sheba’s Death Verses 23–26 – Administrative Appointments Restated 2 Samuel 20 tells a account of revolt, loyalty, and ruthless justice. As King David returns to Jerusalem following Absalom's revolt, another rebellion, this time led by Sheba, threatens his kingdom. Joab, David's commander, responds with brutal decisiveness, showing the complexities of leadership and justice during David's reign. Historical Setting and Political Tension • The kingdom is freshly rattled by Absalom’s revolt (chapters 15–18). National unity is fragile, and tribal rivalries simmer below the surface. • Sheba, a Benjaminite like Saul (1 Samuel 9:1–2), taps into lingering northern resentment over David’s rule from Judah (cf. 2 Samuel 19:41–43). • David’s swift return to Jerusalem signals his determination to stabilize the throne, yet internal fractures are obvious—his own commander Joab murders the newly appointed Amasa in plain sight. Sheba the Son of Bichri • Called “a worthless man” (v. 1; Hebrew beliyyaal), the same term used for Eli’s corrupt sons (1 Samuel 2:12) and Nabal (1 Samuel 25:17). • His slogan “We have no portion in David” later echoes in the northern tribes’ breakaway cry during Rehoboam’s reign (1 Kings 12:16). The seeds of division are already sprouting. Joab’s Calculated Violence • Joab kills Amasa with a hidden dagger, just as he slew Abner (2 Samuel 3:27) and Absalom (2 Samuel 18:14). • David never fully reins Joab in, yet he later instructs Solomon, “Deal with Joab according to your wisdom, and do not let his gray head go down to Sheol in peace” (1 Kings 2:6). The Wise Woman of Abel Beth Maakah • One of Scripture’s memorable unnamed heroines, joining the ranks of the wise woman of Tekoa (2 Samuel 14) and the woman who drops a millstone on Abimelech (Judges 9:53). • Her diplomacy stops needless bloodshed: “I am one of the peaceable and faithful in Israel” (v. 19). She embodies Proverbs 15:1—“A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Geographical and Archaeological Notes • Abel Beth Maakah sits in northern Galilee near today’s Lebanon border. Excavations (Abel Beth Maacah Project) have revealed fortification walls, suggesting a strong defensive position consistent with Joab’s siege tactics. • The “berm” (earthen ramp, v. 15) matches ancient Near Eastern siegeworks discovered at Lachish and other sites, where attackers piled earth and debris against city walls. • Gibeon, where Amasa was murdered, has a massive water shaft and impressive defensive structures still visible, a reminder of the contested central Benjamin region. Cultural Observations • Concubines (v. 3) lived in a legal but secondary status. David’s protective yet isolating treatment reflects both compassion and the social stigma of Absalom’s violation (2 Samuel 16:22). • Trumpet blasts (vv. 1, 22) served as public signals—first for rebellion, then for victory and demobilization (cf. Numbers 10:2). Connections to Other Scriptures • Tribal fragmentation: compare Judges 12 (Jephthah vs. Ephraim) and Hosea 8:4 (“They set up kings, but not by Me”). • Siege wisdom: Ecclesiastes 9:14-15 tells of a poor wise man delivering a city, paralleling Abel’s wise woman. • David’s concubines: Genesis 35:22 records Reuben’s sin with Bilhah, bringing similar consequences to Jacob’s household. Thematic Lessons 1. Hidden rebellion must be addressed promptly—David sends troops “lest he find fortified cities and escape from us” (v. 6). Ephesians 4:27 warns, “do not give the devil an opportunity.” 2. Ungoverned ambition—Joab’s drive secures short-term peace but stores up future judgment (1 Kings 2). 3. God can use unlikely messengers—a nameless woman brings peace when seasoned generals fail, echoing 1 Corinthians 1:27: “God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” Christ-Centered Thread • David’s kingdom, riddled with betrayal and bloodshed, points to the need for a faultless King whose reign cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28). • The wise woman’s plea for one man to die so the city may live foreshadows the high priest’s prophecy about Jesus: “It is better for you that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish” (John 11:50). Administrative Snapshot (vv. 23–26) Joab—Army commander Benaiah—Bodyguard chief (later commander under Solomon, 1 Kings 2:35) Adoram—Labor overseer (he will be stoned during the split, 1 Kings 12:18) Jehoshaphat—Recorder/historian Sheva—Royal scribe Zadok & Abiathar—Priests (Abiathar later removed, 1 Kings 2:27) Ira—Personal priest, likely counselor and intercessor for the king Application Pointers • Guard unity diligently; small seeds of discontent can fracture an entire community. • Confront sin courageously yet righteously; Joab’s style solves the problem but damages the soul. • Seek and heed godly wisdom, even when it comes from unexpected places—God delights in using humble voices. Connections to Additional Scriptures Unity in the Body of Christ Ephesians 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Wisdom in Leadership Proverbs 11:14 - Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. God’s Sovereignty Romans 8:28 - And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Teaching Points The Nature of RebellionSheba, described as a worthless man (2 Samuel 20:1), capitalizes on the existing tensions within Israel, demonstrating how easily division can be sown when unity is fragile. Leadership Under Pressure David's response to the rebellion highlights the challenges leaders face in times of crisis. His decision to appoint Amasa to gather the men of Judah (2 Samuel 20:4) shows his attempt to unify the kingdom. The Role of Joab Joab's actions, including the murder of Amasa (2 Samuel 20:10), reveal the complexities of loyalty and ambition within leadership. Joab's ruthless methods contrast with David's more measured approach. Divine Justice and Sovereignty Despite human failings, God’s justice is evident as Sheba's rebellion is ultimately quelled. The wise woman of Abel Beth Maacah plays a crucial role in bringing about peace (2 Samuel 20:16-22). The Importance of Wisdom and Counsel The intervention of the wise woman underscores the value of wisdom and counsel in resolving conflicts and maintaining peace. Practical Applications Guard Against DivisionBe vigilant against seeds of division in your community or family. Seek unity and reconciliation, following the example of Christ. Wise Leadership In times of crisis, seek God’s guidance to lead with wisdom and integrity, prioritizing the well-being of the community over personal ambition. Value of Counsel Surround yourself with wise and godly counsel. Listen to those who offer wisdom and seek peace, much like the wise woman of Abel Beth Maacah. Trust in God’s Sovereignty Even when situations seem chaotic, trust that God is in control and His justice will ultimately prevail. People 1. Sheba son of BichriDescribed as "a worthless man" (2 Samuel 20:1), Sheba is a Benjamite who instigates a rebellion against King David. The Hebrew term used here, "בְּלִיַּעַל" (belial), often denotes someone who is wicked or lawless. 2. David The King of Israel, who is dealing with the aftermath of Absalom's rebellion and now faces Sheba's insurrection. David is a central figure in the narrative, seeking to maintain unity in his kingdom. 3. Joab David's military commander, who plays a crucial role in quelling Sheba's rebellion. Joab is known for his decisive and sometimes ruthless actions. 4. Amasa Appointed by David as the commander of the army in place of Joab, Amasa is tasked with assembling the men of Judah to pursue Sheba. However, he is killed by Joab in a strategic move to regain his position. 5. Abishai Joab's brother, who is initially given command by David to pursue Sheba. Abishai is a loyal supporter of David and a seasoned warrior. 6. Bichri The father of Sheba, mentioned in the context of identifying Sheba's lineage. 7. The Wise Woman of Abel A woman from the city of Abel Beth Maacah, who negotiates with Joab to save her city from destruction by handing over Sheba's head. 8. The Men of Judah The tribe that remains loyal to David and is called upon to pursue Sheba under Amasa's leadership. 9. The Men of Israel Initially, they follow Sheba in his rebellion against David, highlighting the division within the kingdom. 10. The Servants of David These are the loyal followers and soldiers who support David in his efforts to suppress the rebellion. Places 1. GilgalThis is where Sheba, the son of Bichri, a Benjamite, initiated his rebellion against King David. Gilgal is historically significant as the first campsite of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River (2 Samuel 20:1). 2. Jerusalem The city where King David resided and from where he sent Amasa to summon the men of Judah (2 Samuel 20:2-4). Jerusalem, known as "Yerushalayim" in Hebrew, is the central city of David's kingdom. 3. Gibeon The location where Joab met Amasa and deceitfully killed him. Gibeon was a significant city in the tribal territory of Benjamin (2 Samuel 20:8). The Hebrew root "Giv'on" refers to a hill or elevated place. 4. Abel Beth Maacah The city where Sheba took refuge, and Joab besieged it to capture him. Abel Beth Maacah is located in the northern part of Israel (2 Samuel 20:14-15). The name "Abel" in Hebrew can mean "meadow" or "stream," and "Beth Maacah" refers to the house of Maacah. 5. Beth Maacah Part of the name of the city Abel Beth Maacah, indicating its association with the region or family of Maacah (2 Samuel 20:15). Events 1. Sheba's RebellionSheba, a Benjamite, incites rebellion against King David, declaring, "We have no share in David, no inheritance in the son of Jesse" (2 Samuel 20:1). The Hebrew term "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah) refers to inheritance or possession, emphasizing the rejection of David's rule. 2. David's Response David returns to Jerusalem and takes action to suppress the rebellion. He isolates the ten concubines he had left to care for the palace, providing for them but not engaging with them further (2 Samuel 20:3). 3. Amasa's Appointment David appoints Amasa to gather the men of Judah within three days to pursue Sheba (2 Samuel 20:4). The Hebrew root "קָבַץ" (qavats) means to gather or assemble, indicating the urgency of the task. 4. Joab's Treachery Joab deceitfully kills Amasa by striking him with a sword during a greeting, taking command of the army (2 Samuel 20:9-10). The Hebrew verb "נָשַׁק" (nashaq) means to kiss, highlighting the betrayal in Joab's actions. 5. Pursuit of Sheba Joab and Abishai lead the forces of David in pursuit of Sheba, who has taken refuge in the city of Abel Beth Maacah (2 Samuel 20:14). 6. Siege of Abel Beth Maacah Joab's forces besiege the city, building a siege ramp against the outer wall (2 Samuel 20:15). The Hebrew "מָצוֹר" (matsor) refers to a siege or blockade. 7. Wise Woman's Intervention A wise woman from the city negotiates with Joab, asking why he seeks to destroy a city that is "a mother in Israel" (2 Samuel 20:19). The Hebrew "אֵם" (em) signifies a mother, symbolizing the city's importance. 8. Sheba's Death The wise woman convinces the people to behead Sheba and throw his head over the wall to Joab, ending the rebellion (2 Samuel 20:22). 9. Joab's Return to Jerusalem Joab returns to King David in Jerusalem, having quelled the rebellion (2 Samuel 20:22). 10. David's Officials The chapter concludes with a list of David's officials, including Joab as commander of the army and Benaiah over the Cherethites and Pelethites (2 Samuel 20:23-26). The Hebrew "שָׂר" (sar) means prince or chief, indicating their high status. Topics 1. Sheba's RebellionSheba, a Benjamite, incites a rebellion against King David, declaring, "We have no share in David, no inheritance in Jesse’s son. Every man to his tent, O Israel!" (2 Samuel 20:1). The Hebrew root for "rebellion" (מֶרִי, ^meri^) signifies defiance against authority, highlighting the gravity of Sheba's actions. 2. David's Response David quickly responds to the threat by summoning his men and appointing Amasa to gather the men of Judah within three days (2 Samuel 20:4). The urgency in David's command reflects the Hebrew concept of swift justice and decisive leadership. 3. Amasa's Delay and Joab's Treachery Amasa delays in assembling the troops, leading Joab to take matters into his own hands. Joab deceitfully greets Amasa and then kills him, as described: "Joab struck him in the stomach with his dagger and spilled his intestines to the ground" (2 Samuel 20:10). The Hebrew term for "struck" (נָכָה, ^nakah^) implies a violent and deliberate act. 4. Pursuit of Sheba Joab and Abishai pursue Sheba, demonstrating the relentless pursuit of justice. The narrative emphasizes the importance of loyalty to the king and the consequences of rebellion (2 Samuel 20:13-14). 5. Siege of Abel Beth Maacah Joab's forces besiege the city of Abel Beth Maacah, where Sheba has taken refuge. The Hebrew word for "siege" (צָרַר, ^tsarar^) conveys the idea of encircling and pressuring the city to surrender (2 Samuel 20:15). 6. The Wise Woman's Intervention A wise woman from the city negotiates with Joab, demonstrating the value of wisdom and diplomacy. She says, "Listen to the words of your servant," and successfully persuades Joab to spare the city in exchange for Sheba's head (2 Samuel 20:16-22). The Hebrew root for "wise" (חָכָם, ^chakam^) underscores the importance of discernment and understanding. 7. Resolution and Return to Jerusalem After Sheba's death, Joab returns to Jerusalem, and the rebellion is quelled. The chapter concludes with a list of David's officials, highlighting the restoration of order and governance (2 Samuel 20:23-26). The Hebrew concept of "shalom" (שָׁלוֹם) or peace is implicit in the restoration of stability. Themes 1. Rebellion and DivisionThe chapter opens with Sheba, a Benjamite, inciting rebellion against King David, saying, "We have no share in David, no inheritance in the son of Jesse" (2 Samuel 20:1). This theme highlights the recurring issue of division within Israel, reflecting the Hebrew root "פֶּשַׁע" (pesha), meaning rebellion or transgression. 2. Loyalty and Allegiance Despite Sheba's rebellion, the men of Judah remain loyal to David, as seen in 2 Samuel 20:2, "So all the men of Israel deserted David to follow Sheba son of Bichri, but the men of Judah stayed by their king all the way from the Jordan to Jerusalem" . This theme underscores the importance of loyalty and the Hebrew concept of "חֶסֶד" (chesed), often translated as steadfast love or faithfulness. 3. Justice and Retribution Joab's pursuit and eventual execution of Amasa, as well as the siege of Abel Beth Maacah, illustrate the theme of justice and retribution. Joab's actions, though violent, are seen as a means to restore order, reflecting the Hebrew root "שָׁפַט" (shaphat), meaning to judge or govern (2 Samuel 20:10). 4. Wisdom and Mediation The wise woman's intervention in Abel Beth Maacah (2 Samuel 20:16-22) demonstrates the theme of wisdom and mediation. Her actions prevent further bloodshed, embodying the Hebrew concept of "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), meaning wisdom or skill. 5. Leadership and Authority David's handling of the rebellion and his delegation of military responsibilities to Joab and Abishai reflect the theme of leadership and authority. This is seen in 2 Samuel 20:23-26, where the structure of David's administration is outlined, emphasizing the importance of organized leadership in maintaining order. 6. Consequences of Sin The chapter also subtly reflects on the consequences of sin, as the rebellion and internal strife can be traced back to David's earlier transgressions. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew word "חֵטְא" (chet), meaning sin or offense, reminding readers of the long-lasting impact of sin on a community. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 2 Samuel 20:1, how likely is it that Israel would rapidly follow Sheba’s revolt so soon after Absalom’s rebellion? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Reflect on the character of Sheba and his revolt. What does this say about loyalty during times of leadership transition? 2. How would you respond to a leader like Joab, who enforces order through violent methods? 3. Analyze the conversation between Joab and the wise woman. What can we learn about peaceful resolution from this dialogue? 4. What does David's treatment of his concubines reflect about his character and moral judgment? 5. Compare the leadership styles of David, Joab, and the wise woman. How might these differences be significant? 6. How does Amasa's murder reflect the complexities of power dynamics in David's court? 7. In the modern context, what lessons can we learn from David's inability to prevent the rebellions during his reign? 8. How do you perceive justice and ruthlessness in the light of Joab's actions? 9. How would you apply the wisdom of the woman from Abel Beth Maacah in resolving a modern-day conflict? 10. Discuss the implications of Sheba's fate for those who challenge established authority. 11. How does the list of David's officials at the end of the chapter serve to stabilize the narrative after the events of revolt and murder? 12. What do the events of 2 Samuel 20 teach about the importance of timely decision-making in leadership? 13. What modern systems of governance share similarities with the complexities of David's rule? 14. How can David's experience with consecutive rebellions inform contemporary leaders about the handling of dissent? 15. How might you apply the lessons from 2 Samuel 20 to your own experiences with leadership or followership? 16. How do Joab's actions challenge our understanding of loyalty and ambition? 17. In what ways does the narrative of 2 Samuel 20 teach about the consequences of political ambition (as shown by Sheba and Joab)? 18. In the context of this chapter, discuss the significance of wisdom and dialogue over force. 19. How can we reconcile the notions of justice and mercy in light of the events of 2 Samuel 20? 20. Reflect on the women’s roles in the narrative of 2 Samuel 20. What does this say about the influence of women in a largely patriarchal society? 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