Topical Bible: David: King of Israel: Makes Amasa General

◄ David: King of Israel: Makes Amasa General ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

David, the second king of Israel, is a central figure in the biblical narrative, known for his leadership, military prowess, and deep relationship with God. One of the significant events during his reign was the appointment of Amasa as the commander of his army, a decision that reflects both political strategy and personal reconciliation.

Context and Background

The appointment of Amasa as general occurs during a turbulent period in David's reign. Absalom, David's son, had led a rebellion against his father, temporarily usurping the throne. After Absalom's death and the quelling of the rebellion, David sought to restore unity and stability to the kingdom. This context is crucial for understanding David's decision to appoint Amasa.

Biblical Account

The account of David making Amasa general is found in 2 Samuel 19:13. After the rebellion, David sends a message to Amasa, saying, "Are you not my own flesh and blood? May God punish me, and ever so severely, if you do not become commander of my army in place of Joab." . This appointment is significant because Amasa was previously the commander of Absalom's forces, making him a former adversary of David.

Political and Personal Implications

David's decision to appoint Amasa can be seen as a strategic move to consolidate his rule and heal the divisions within the nation. By replacing Joab, who had been a loyal but often ruthless commander, with Amasa, David aimed to win the loyalty of those who had supported Absalom. This act of reconciliation was intended to unify the tribes of Israel and strengthen David's position as king.

From a personal perspective, David's choice reflects his willingness to forgive and restore relationships. Amasa was his nephew, being the son of David's sister Abigail, which added a familial dimension to the appointment. David's actions demonstrate a commitment to peace and reconciliation, even at the cost of potential personal risk.

The Role of Joab

Joab, the previous commander, had been a key figure in David's military successes but was also known for his violent and independent actions, including the killing of Absalom against David's explicit wishes. By appointing Amasa, David was not only making a political statement but also addressing the unchecked power and influence of Joab.

Outcome and Legacy

The appointment of Amasa, however, was short-lived. In 2 Samuel 20, during the rebellion of Sheba, Joab deceitfully killed Amasa, resuming his role as commander. This act underscores the complex and often brutal nature of political power struggles in ancient Israel.

David's decision to make Amasa general highlights his efforts to restore unity and peace in a divided kingdom. It reflects the challenges of leadership and the delicate balance between justice, mercy, and political necessity. Through this episode, David's reign is marked by both his strategic acumen and his deep desire for reconciliation and unity among God's people.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 19:13
And say you to Amasa, Are you not of my bone, and of my flesh? God do so to me, and more also, if you be not captain of the host before me continually in the room of Joab.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Antiquities of the Jews
... From The Death Of David To The Death Of Ahab. ... Slew Her And Made Jehoash, The Son
Of Ahaziah, King. ... Makes An Expedition Against The People Of Israel And The ...
//christianbookshelf.org/josephus/the antiquities of the jews/

Book 5 Footnotes
... [11] David's reserving only ... he had taken from Hadadezer, was most probably in compliance
with the law of Moses, which forbade a king of Israel "to multiply ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/book 5 footnotes.htm