Joab
Commander of David’s Army
Name Information
- Meaning: "Yahweh is father"
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Joab, son of Zeruiah, was David’s formidable military commander. He secured victories for David but also committed unauthorized killings that later brought judgment.
⏰ United Kingdom (David & Solomon)
Roles
- Army Commander
Relationships
- Mother: Zeruiah
- Siblings: Abishai, Asahel
Story
Joab pursued Abner over Asahel’s death and later killed Abner (2 Samuel 2–3).
He helped orchestrate Uriah’s death at David’s command (2 Samuel 11:14–17).
Against David’s wishes, Joab killed Absalom (2 Samuel 18:11–15).
He also killed Amasa and later clung to the altar but was executed by Benaiah at Solomon’s command (2 Samuel 20; 1 Kings 2:28–34).
Spiritual Significance
- Led David’s forces in key conflicts and took Jerusalem’s stronghold (cf. 1 Chronicles 11:6).
- Killed Abner and Amasa and slew Absalom despite David’s request (2 Samuel 3; 18; 20).
- Was executed under Solomon for bloodguilt (1 Kings 2:28–34).
What We Can Learn
- Success without obedience leads to guilt.
- Ends do not justify unrighteous means.
- God brings hidden deeds into judgment.
Memory Verses
I will not waste time like this with you.
— 2 Samuel 18:14
Key Passages
- 2 Samuel 2–3
- 2 Samuel 8:16
- 2 Samuel 11:14–17
- 2 Samuel 18:9–15
- 2 Samuel 20:9–13
- 1 Kings 2:5–6, 28–34
AI is used as a tool to help create this content, informed by prior study and arranged in a study-friendly format. Every effort is made to keep it faithful to Scripture, but errors can happen — if you notice one, please let us know at contact@bibleinshort.com.