Joab, the son of Zeruiah, who was David's sister, is a prominent military leader in the narrative of the United Kingdom of Israel. As the commander of King David's army, Joab played a crucial role in several military campaigns, including the capture of Rabbah, the capital city of the Ammonites.

The account of Joab's capture of Rabbah is found in 2 Samuel 11-12 and 1 Chronicles 20. The campaign against the Ammonites began as a response to the humiliation of David's envoys by Hanun, the king of the Ammonites. This act of disrespect led to a series of military confrontations between Israel and the Ammonites.

In 2 Samuel 11:1 , it is recorded, "In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with his servants and all Israel, and they destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem." This verse sets the stage for the siege of Rabbah, highlighting Joab's leadership in the field while David stayed behind in the capital.

Joab's military prowess is evident as he leads the siege against Rabbah. The city was well-fortified, and the campaign required strategic planning and execution. Joab's ability to lead and motivate his troops was instrumental in the eventual success of the siege.

In 2 Samuel 12:26-28 , the narrative continues: "Meanwhile, Joab fought against Rabbah of the Ammonites and captured the royal fortress. Then Joab sent messengers to David to say, 'I have fought against Rabbah and have captured the water supply of the city. Now, therefore, assemble the rest of the troops, besiege the city, and capture it. Otherwise, I will take the city myself, and it will be named after me.'"

Joab's message to David demonstrates his loyalty and respect for the king, as he invites David to come and claim the final victory, ensuring that the honor of capturing the city would belong to David. This act underscores Joab's understanding of the importance of maintaining the king's prestige and authority.

David heeds Joab's call and arrives to lead the final assault on Rabbah. The city is captured, and David takes the crown from the head of the Ammonite king, placing it on his own head, as described in 2 Samuel 12:30 : "Then he took the crown from the head of their king. It weighed a talent of gold and was set with precious stones, and it was placed on David’s head. He took a great amount of plunder from the city."

Joab's role in the capture of Rabbah highlights his effectiveness as a military commander and his dedication to King David. His actions during the siege reflect his strategic acumen and his commitment to the success of Israel under David's rule. Joab's leadership in this campaign is a testament to his significant, albeit complex, role in the history of Israel during the reign of King David.2 Samuel 11:1,15-25
And it came to pass, after the year was expired, at the time when kings go forth to battle, that David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the children of Ammon, and besieged Rabbah. But David tarried still at Jerusalem.
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2 Samuel 12:26-29
And Joab fought against Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and took the royal city.
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1 Chronicles 20:1,2
And it came to pass, that after the year was expired, at the time that kings go out to battle, Joab led forth the power of the army, and wasted the country of the children of Ammon, and came and besieged Rabbah. But David tarried at Jerusalem. And Joab smote Rabbah, and destroyed it.
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