Topical Bible: False Accusation: Incidents Illustrative of Against Abner by Joab

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, false accusations are a recurring theme that often leads to conflict and tragedy. One notable incident involves Abner, the commander of Saul's army, and Joab, the commander of David's forces. This episode is recorded in the Second Book of Samuel and provides a poignant example of how false accusations can be used as a tool for personal vendetta and political maneuvering.

Background Context

Abner, son of Ner, was a powerful military leader who initially supported Saul's house against David. However, after a falling out with Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, Abner sought to transfer his allegiance to David, aiming to unite the kingdom under David's rule. Abner's overtures were welcomed by David, who saw the strategic advantage of having such a seasoned commander on his side.

The Incident

The tension between Joab and Abner is rooted in a personal vendetta. Joab's brother, Asahel, had been killed by Abner during a battle (2 Samuel 2:23). Although Abner had acted in self-defense, Joab harbored a deep-seated grudge against him. This animosity set the stage for the false accusation that would follow.

After Abner's meeting with David, Joab accused Abner of deceit and espionage. In 2 Samuel 3:24-25 , Joab confronts David, saying, "What have you done? Behold, Abner came to you. Why did you send him away? Now he is gone. You know Abner son of Ner; he came to deceive you and to learn of your movements and all that you are doing."

Joab's accusation was unfounded and driven by his desire for revenge rather than any genuine concern for David's safety. By casting suspicion on Abner's motives, Joab sought to undermine the trust David had placed in him.

The Outcome

Despite David's intentions to make peace with Abner, Joab's false accusation and subsequent actions led to Abner's murder. Joab deceitfully lured Abner back to Hebron under the pretense of a private conversation and killed him in cold blood (2 Samuel 3:27). This act of treachery was not only a personal vendetta but also a political maneuver to eliminate a rival.

David's reaction to Abner's death was one of mourning and public lamentation. He distanced himself from Joab's actions, declaring his innocence in the matter and pronouncing a curse on Joab's house (2 Samuel 3:28-29). David's lament for Abner, recorded in 2 Samuel 3:33-34 , underscores the tragedy of the situation: "Should Abner die as a fool dies? Your hands were not bound, your feet were not fettered. As one falls before the wicked, you have fallen."

Significance

This incident highlights the destructive power of false accusations, particularly when motivated by personal vendettas. Joab's actions not only resulted in the unjust death of Abner but also complicated David's efforts to unify the kingdom. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of deceit and the importance of seeking truth and justice in all dealings.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 3:24-27
Then Joab came to the king, and said, What have you done? behold, Abner came to you; why is it that you have sent him away, and he is quite gone?
Nave's Topical Index