Joab יוֹאָב

Male Tribe of Judah H3097G 5 books

Son of Zeruiah, commander of David's army

Who is Joab in the Bible?

Joab, the son of Zeruiah and nephew of King David, was the commander of David's army throughout most of his reign. He first appears in 1 Samuel 26:6 and became instrumental in establishing David's kingdom, leading military campaigns against the Ammonites, Syrians, and other enemies (2 Samuel 10, 12:26-27). Though valued for his military skill and strategic brilliance, Joab was also known for ruthlessness and ambition, including his revenge killing of Abner (2 Samuel 3:27) and his disobedience in killing Absalom despite David's orders (2 Samuel 18:14-15). His complex character represents both the strength and moral compromises that marked David's reign, ultimately resulting in Solomon's judgment against him after David's death (1 Kings 2:28-34).

Biography

Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was King David's nephew and the commander of his army. He first appears in 1Sa.26.6, accompanying David on a mission to Saul's camp. Joab played a significant role in David's rise to power and the establishment of his kingdom (2Sa.2-3; 8.16; 1Ch.11.6,8).

As a military commander, Joab led David's forces in various battles against the Ammonites, Syrians, and other enemies (2Sa.10; 12.26-27; 1Ch.19). He also helped quell Absalom's rebellion and was instrumental in defeating Sheba's revolt (2Sa.18; 20).

However, Joab's loyalty to David was sometimes overshadowed by his own ambition and ruthlessness. He killed Abner, Saul's former commander, in revenge for his brother Asahel's death (2Sa.3). He also disobeyed David's orders by killing Absalom (2Sa.18) and supported Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne (1Ki.1.7,19).

Despite his flaws, Joab remained a key figure in David's reign until the end. He was involved in the census that brought God's judgment upon Israel (2Sa.24; 1Ch.21) and was eventually killed by Benaiah on Solomon's orders for his support of Adonijah (1Ki.2.28-35).

Family

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In Scripture

5 biblical books ; 1 with study content

1 Samuel 1 verse

1 Samuel 26:6

"And David asked Ahimelech the Hittite and Abishai son of Zeruiah, Joab’s brother, “Who will go down with me to Saul in the camp?” “I will go with you,” answered Abishai."

2 Samuel 5 verses

2 Samuel 2:13

"So Joab son of Zeruiah and the servants of David marched out and met them by the pool of Gibeon. And the two groups took up positions on opposite sides of the pool."
2 Samuel 2:14

"Then Abner said to Joab, “Let us have the young men get up and compete before us.” “Let them get up,” Joab replied."
2 Samuel 2:18

"The three sons of Zeruiah were there: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. Now Asahel was fleet of foot like a wild gazelle,"
2 Samuel 2:22

"Once again, Abner warned Asahel, “Stop chasing me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How could I show my face to your brother Joab?”"
2 Samuel 2:24

"But Joab and Abishai pursued Abner. By sunset, they had gone as far as the hill of Ammah opposite Giah on the way to the wilderness of Gibeon."

Names & Aliases

Form	Language	Script
Named	Hebrew	יוֹאָב