Joab, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is best known as the commander of King David's army. He was the son of Zeruiah, David's sister, making him David's nephew. Joab's role in the biblical narrative is significant, as he was involved in many of the key military and political events during David's reign.

Military Leadership and Loyalty to David

Joab first appears in the biblical narrative as a valiant warrior and a strategic military leader. He played a crucial role in securing David's kingdom, leading the army in numerous battles against Israel's enemies. His loyalty to David was evident, although it was sometimes marked by ruthless actions. Joab's military prowess is highlighted in several passages, including his successful capture of Jerusalem from the Jebusites (2 Samuel 5:6-8) and his leadership in the battle against the Ammonites and Syrians (2 Samuel 10:7-14).

Complex Relationship with David

Joab's relationship with David was complex, characterized by both loyalty and tension. While he was a trusted military leader, Joab often acted independently, sometimes in ways that conflicted with David's wishes. One of the most notable instances of this was his killing of Abner, the commander of Saul's army, despite David's desire for peace (2 Samuel 3:27). Joab also played a controversial role in the death of David's son Absalom, who had rebelled against his father. Despite David's explicit command to deal gently with Absalom, Joab killed him, believing it was necessary to secure David's throne (2 Samuel 18:14-15).

Barley Field Burned by Absalom

The incident involving Joab's barley field being burned by Absalom is a significant event that illustrates the tension between Joab and Absalom. After Absalom returned to Jerusalem following his exile, he sought an audience with King David, but David refused to see him. In an attempt to get Joab's attention and secure his help in arranging a meeting with the king, Absalom ordered his servants to set Joab's barley field on fire (2 Samuel 14:29-31). This act of arson successfully compelled Joab to intervene, leading to a reconciliation between David and Absalom, albeit a temporary and ultimately tragic one.

Political Maneuvering and Downfall

Joab's political maneuvering was evident throughout his career. He was instrumental in supporting David's claim to the throne and later in securing Solomon's succession. However, his actions were not always aligned with the king's intentions. Joab's downfall came when he supported Adonijah's claim to the throne instead of Solomon, whom David had chosen as his successor. This decision ultimately led to his execution on the orders of King Solomon (1 Kings 2:28-34).

Legacy

Joab's legacy is a complex one. He is remembered as a fierce warrior and a shrewd military leader who played a crucial role in establishing and maintaining David's kingdom. However, his independent actions and willingness to use violence to achieve his ends often put him at odds with David's more merciful and diplomatic approach. Joab's life and actions serve as a reminder of the challenges and complexities of leadership and loyalty in the biblical narrative.2 Samuel 14:29-33
Therefore Absalom sent for Joab, to have sent him to the king; but he would not come to him: and when he sent again the second time, he would not come.
Nave's Topical Index

The Barley Field on Fire
... kiss the Master's rod." Then comes another""My son is afflicted ... Then I pray you go
to God as Joab went to ... Then, let us say with David, "Before I was afflicted ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 10 1864/the barley field on fire.htm

The History of David
... parts, and would have gone with them, but Joab counselled that ... not go to the battle
whatsomever happed, and then David bade them to save his son Absalom. ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/the history of david.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... to have revenged the violation of his sister Dinah by ... described at length in the
duel between David and Goliath ... the exploits of a certain Shamgar, son of Anath ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Who was Joab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the story of Abner and Joab? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Abner in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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