Joab, the son of Zeruiah, David's sister, is a prominent military commander in the narrative of the Old Testament. Known for his strategic acumen and fierce loyalty to King David, Joab plays a crucial role in the consolidation of David's kingdom. His actions, however, often reflect a complex interplay of loyalty, ambition, and ruthlessness.

Background and Role in David's Reign

Joab first emerges as a key figure during David's rise to power. As the commander of David's army, Joab is instrumental in securing victories against the Philistines and other adversaries. His military prowess is matched by his political savvy, as he navigates the turbulent dynamics of David's court. Despite his loyalty to David, Joab is not above taking matters into his own hands, often acting with a degree of autonomy that borders on insubordination.

The Revolt of Sheba

The incident involving Sheba, son of Bichri, highlights Joab's decisive and often brutal approach to threats against the kingdom. Following the rebellion of Absalom, another insurrection arises under Sheba, a Benjamite who declares, "We have no share in David, no inheritance in Jesse’s son. Every man to his tent, O Israel!" (2 Samuel 20:1). This declaration threatens the unity of Israel, as Sheba seeks to capitalize on the discontent lingering after Absalom's failed coup.

Joab's Pursuit and Strategy

David, recognizing the danger posed by Sheba, commands Amasa, his newly appointed commander, to muster the men of Judah to pursue the rebel. However, Amasa delays, prompting David to instruct Abishai, Joab's brother, to take action. Joab, seizing the opportunity, kills Amasa in a calculated move to reclaim his position as commander (2 Samuel 20:9-10).

Joab then leads the pursuit of Sheba, demonstrating his tactical expertise. The chase culminates in the besieging of Abel Beth Maacah, where Sheba has taken refuge. Joab's forces prepare to destroy the city to capture Sheba, but a wise woman intervenes, negotiating with Joab to spare the city in exchange for Sheba's head.

The Death of Sheba

The woman’s negotiation with Joab underscores his willingness to achieve his objectives through diplomacy when possible, though his reputation for violence precedes him. The inhabitants of Abel Beth Maacah comply with Joab's demand, and Sheba is beheaded, effectively quelling the rebellion. Joab's actions restore stability to David's reign, but they also reinforce his image as a formidable and often feared enforcer of the king's will.

Legacy and Theological Implications

Joab's role in the death of Sheba illustrates the complexities of leadership and justice in the biblical narrative. His actions, while effective in preserving the kingdom, raise questions about the morality of his methods. Joab's life and career serve as a reminder of the tension between divine providence and human agency, as well as the challenges inherent in maintaining order and righteousness in a fallen world.2 Samuel 20:16-22
Then cried a wise woman out of the city, Hear, hear; say, I pray you, to Joab, Come near here, that I may speak with you.
Nave's Topical Index

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

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... clothed with flesh, that the works of the Son might by us ... and inclosed; "A garden
inclosed is my sister, my spouse ... sealed" (Cant 4:12); and there he put the man ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

Who was Benaiah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Adonijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about being passive-aggressive? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus