2 Samuel 11:21 – “Who killed Abimelek son of Jerub-Besheth? Didn’t a woman drop an upper millstone on him from the wall, so that he died in Thebez? Why did you get so close to the wall?’ If he asks you this, then say to him, ‘Moreover, your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead.’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Joab anticipates that David might criticize the strategy of approaching too close to the city walls during battle, which historically resulted in disaster. Joab reminds the messenger of the story of Abimelek, a leader in Israel’s history who was killed when a woman dropped a millstone on him from a city wall (Judges 9:53). Joab’s point is that David, a seasoned military leader, would be well aware of the risks of fighting close to the city walls. However, Joab instructs the messenger to follow up with the news that Uriah is dead, knowing this will shift David’s focus away from any military blunder. This verse shows the extent of Joab’s complicity in David’s scheme, using both history and strategic manipulation to protect himself and deliver the news David ultimately wants to hear.
Historical Context
The reference to Abimelek comes from Judges 9, where Abimelek was killed by a woman who dropped a millstone on his head as he fought near a city wall. This was a well-known event in Israel’s history, and it serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of attacking too close to a fortified city. David, being a military leader, would have been aware of this historical precedent. Joab’s instructions to the messenger reflect his understanding of David’s likely reaction and his attempt to preemptively defuse any anger by reminding David of this past event. However, the death of Uriah, David’s primary goal, is used to overshadow any concerns about the tactics employed.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the depths of manipulation and deceit that come when sin goes unconfessed and unaddressed. Joab is complicit in David’s plot to kill Uriah, and both men have become entangled in lies and moral compromise. Theologically, it serves as a reminder that sin begets more sin, and covering up wrongdoing often leads to more deception. Joab’s use of historical examples to justify his actions further illustrates the moral decline in this situation. It also speaks to the human tendency to rationalize sin by pointing to past events or seeking to distract from the true issues at hand.
Literary Analysis
The verse is filled with irony and tension. The historical reference to Abimelek adds depth to the narrative, as Joab tries to shield himself and David from criticism by invoking a well-known story of military failure. The contrast between the historical lesson and the personal tragedy of Uriah’s death creates a stark picture of how far David and Joab have fallen morally. The mention of Uriah’s death at the end of the verse, almost as an afterthought, underscores the coldness of the situation and how human life is being treated as a mere tool in the larger scheme.
Biblical Cross-References
- Judges 9:53: “A woman dropped an upper millstone on his head and cracked his skull.” This reference is key to understanding Joab’s message to the messenger and how he anticipates David’s reaction.
- Proverbs 12:22: “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” Joab’s deceit in delivering this message highlights the contrast between God’s desire for truth and the human tendency toward deception.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For modern Christians, this verse is a powerful reminder of the dangers of rationalizing sin and manipulating others to cover up wrongdoing. Joab’s use of historical precedent to justify risky military tactics and downplay the death of Uriah shows how people can twist the truth to serve their own purposes. Christians are called to live lives of integrity, confessing sin rather than hiding behind excuses or rationalizations. This verse also serves as a warning about the consequences of allowing sin to go unchecked, as it often drags others into moral compromise and leads to more deception.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Despite the layers of deceit and manipulation in this story, God’s love remains constant. God desires truth, justice, and righteousness, and He does not turn a blind eye to the sin of David and Joab. Though David has fallen far from God’s standards, God’s love will eventually bring about conviction and repentance through the prophet Nathan. This verse reminds us that God’s love includes both justice and mercy. Even when we fall into sin, God’s love calls us back to Himself, offering the opportunity for forgiveness and restoration.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The deceit and manipulation seen in this verse highlight the need for a Savior who embodies truth and integrity. While David and Joab engage in lies and scheming, Jesus Christ offers a path of truth and grace. In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” Jesus came to deal with sin openly, offering forgiveness and redemption through His sacrifice on the cross. His life and ministry provide the antidote to the deception and moral failure seen in this story, offering a way for humanity to walk in the light and receive forgiveness through Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Joab’s use of the story of Abimelek show the danger of rationalizing sin or using past events to justify present wrongdoing?
- What can we learn from this passage about the importance of confronting sin directly rather than manipulating situations to cover it up?
- How does this verse challenge us to consider the ways we might try to justify our own actions or distract from our own mistakes?
- In what ways does Jesus offer a path of truth and grace that contrasts with the deceit and manipulation seen in this story? How can we embrace His call to live with integrity?