Joab יוֹאָב

Male Tribe of Judah H3097G 5 books

Son of Zeruiah, commander of David's army

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

Parents

Siblings

In Scripture

5 biblical books ; 1 with study content

1 Samuel 1 verse

1 Samuel 26:6

"Then David answered and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother of Joab, saying, “Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp?” Abishai said, “I will go down with you.”"

2 Samuel 5 verses

2 Samuel 2:13

"Joab the son of Zeruiah and David’s servants went out, and met them by the pool of Gibeon; and they sat down, the one on the one side of the pool, and the other on the other side of the pool."
2 Samuel 2:14

"Abner said to Joab, “Please let the young men arise and play before us!” Joab said, “Let them arise!”"
2 Samuel 2:18

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

"Abner said again to Asahel, “Turn away from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I look Joab your brother in the face?”"
2 Samuel 2:24

"But Joab and Abishai pursued Abner. The sun went down when they had come to the hill of Ammah, that lies before Giah by the way of the wilderness of Gibeon."

Names & Aliases

Form	Language	Script	Strong's
Named	Hebrew	יוֹאָב	H3097G