Topical Bible: Intercession: Joab for Absalom

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In the biblical narrative, Joab, the commander of King David's army, plays a significant role in the intercession for Absalom, David's estranged son. This episode is primarily found in 2 Samuel 14 and highlights themes of reconciliation, loyalty, and the complexities of familial relationships within the context of ancient Israelite society.

Background

Absalom, the third son of King David, had fled to Geshur after killing his half-brother Amnon, who had violated their sister Tamar (2 Samuel 13:23-39). Absalom remained in exile for three years, during which time David longed to go to him but refrained from doing so due to the gravity of Absalom's actions.

Joab's Role

Joab, recognizing the king's deep-seated affection for Absalom and the potential political instability caused by the estrangement, took it upon himself to act as an intermediary. Understanding the need for a tactful approach, Joab devised a plan to appeal to David's sense of justice and mercy.

The Wise Woman of Tekoa

Joab enlisted the help of a wise woman from Tekoa to present a parable to King David. She approached the king with a fabricated account of her own two sons, one of whom had killed the other. Her plea for the preservation of her remaining son, despite his guilt, was designed to mirror David's situation with Absalom. The woman implored the king to protect her son from retribution, thus sparking David's compassion and prompting him to declare, "As surely as the LORD lives, not a hair of your son’s head will fall to the ground" (2 Samuel 14:11).

David's Realization and Joab's Request

Upon revealing the true purpose of her visit, the woman of Tekoa confronted David with his inconsistency in dealing with Absalom. David, perceiving Joab's hand in the matter, summoned Joab and granted his request to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem. Joab fell facedown in gratitude, acknowledging the king's favor: "Today your servant knows that I have found favor in your sight, my lord the king, because the king has granted his servant’s request" (2 Samuel 14:22).

Absalom's Return

Despite David's consent to Absalom's return, the reconciliation was incomplete. Absalom was allowed to return to Jerusalem but was not permitted to see the king's face for two years (2 Samuel 14:24, 28). This partial reconciliation foreshadowed future conflict, as Absalom's ambitions and unresolved tensions eventually led to his rebellion against David.

Significance

Joab's intercession for Absalom underscores the themes of mercy and justice, as well as the intricate dynamics of loyalty and authority within the Davidic kingdom. Joab's actions reflect a pragmatic approach to governance, seeking to restore familial and national unity while navigating the moral complexities of the situation. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges inherent in leadership and the enduring need for wisdom and discernment in matters of justice and reconciliation.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 14:1-24
Now Joab the son of Zeruiah perceived that the king's heart was toward Absalom.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487.
... Absalom, David's son, [17]4, [18]5; type of Judas the traitor, [19]4,
[20]20. ... Intercession of Moses, power of, [586]529. ... Joab, [612]244. ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/aron brother of moses 486.htm

Christ a Complete Saviour:
... Absalom durst not approach"no, not the presence of his father ... and intercessor; wherefore,
he sends to Joab to go to the king and make intercession for him. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/christ a complete saviour .htm

Prov. 22:06 the Duties of Parents
... the blood, the sacrifice, the intercession: you will ... that Joab went out to war against
Ammon ... Amnon's incest, Absalom's murder and proud rebellion,"Adonijah's ...
/.../the upper room being a few truths for the times/chapter xvi prov 22 6 the.htm

The Acceptable Sacrifice;
... wondered at David that he should give Joab and the men of war a charge, that they
take heed that they carry it tenderly to that young rebel Absalom his son (2 ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the acceptable sacrifice.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... not concerned in a covenant of grace; they think they know enough, though ignorant
of a mediator, and count they have no need of the intercession of Christ.[6]. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm