Topical Bible: Treason: To Amasa

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Topical Encyclopedia

Amasa, a significant figure in the Old Testament, is primarily known for his role as a military leader during the tumultuous period of King David's reign. His account is intricately linked with themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the political machinations that characterized the era.

Background and Appointment

Amasa was the son of Jether (also called Ithra), an Ishmaelite, and Abigail, the sister of Zeruiah, making him a cousin to Joab, David's formidable military commander (2 Samuel 17:25). His familial connections placed him in a position of influence within the kingdom of Israel.

During the rebellion of Absalom, David's son, Amasa sided with Absalom and was appointed as the commander of Absalom's army, replacing Joab (2 Samuel 17:25). This act of aligning with Absalom could be seen as an initial act of treason against King David, although it was within the context of a civil war where loyalties were divided.

Reconciliation and Betrayal

After Absalom's defeat and death, David sought to unify the kingdom and heal the divisions caused by the rebellion. In a strategic move to consolidate power and perhaps to weaken Joab's influence, David pardoned Amasa and appointed him as the commander of his own army, replacing Joab (2 Samuel 19:13). This decision was likely intended to win over those who had supported Absalom and to demonstrate David's magnanimity.

However, Amasa's tenure as commander was short-lived. When Sheba, a Benjamite, led a revolt against David, Amasa was tasked with assembling the men of Judah to quell the insurrection (2 Samuel 20:4). Amasa's delay in fulfilling this command provided Joab with an opportunity to act.

The Treacherous Act

Joab, who had been demoted but remained a powerful and influential figure, saw Amasa as a rival and a threat to his authority. Under the guise of a friendly greeting, Joab approached Amasa and deceitfully struck him down with a sword, killing him (2 Samuel 20:9-10). This act of treachery was not only a personal betrayal but also a political maneuver to regain his position as the commander of David's forces.

Joab's murder of Amasa was a blatant act of treason against the king's appointed leader, highlighting the ruthless nature of political power struggles in ancient Israel. Joab's actions, while securing his military leadership, further complicated the dynamics of loyalty and authority within David's reign.

Biblical Reflection

The narrative of Amasa's life and death serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of leadership, loyalty, and the consequences of betrayal. It underscores the fragile nature of political alliances and the often-violent means by which power is maintained or contested. The account of Amasa, as recorded in the books of Samuel, invites reflection on the moral and ethical dimensions of leadership and the cost of treachery in the pursuit of power.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 19:13
And say you to Amasa, Are you not of my bone, and of my flesh? God do so to me, and more also, if you be not captain of the host before me continually in the room of Joab.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The History of Solomon
... First on Joab that had been prince of his father's host, because he slew two good
men by treason and guile, that was Abner the son of Ner, and Amasa the son of ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/the history of solomon.htm

Book 5 Footnotes
... Joab's murder of Abner and Amasa were very barbarous, and could not properly be ... and
this without any just cause, was the highest act of treason against God and ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/book 5 footnotes.htm