20:4-6
Amasa had been made commander of the army, and was told to get the army together within three days. However, Amasa took longer than that to get things together. This may or may not be a reflection on his abilities. Whatever the case, David was concerned about the delay, and so summoned Abishai and tells him to pursue Sheba before Sheba can hole up in some stronghold or other.
20:7-10
“So Joab’s men ...” Joab had been relieved of his duties, but was still on the scene, and he and his men went out under Abishai’s command. They set out to pursue Sheba. Joab is a Machieavellian type of character. He has never sought to depose David. He has also worked for the good of the kingdom. But he has also worked for himself, and has been ruthless when he wanted to. He also seemed to bear a grudge. So when he met Amasa he pretended to be welcoming towards him, but then stuck the knife in. Amasa died with his intestines falling out. As far as Joab was concerned that was the matter over, and he continued the pursuit of Sheba.
No comments:
Post a Comment