2 Samuel 20:1-26 | Sheba’s Rebellion | Sermon 39
Sheba's Rebellion (Verses 1-2)
Sheba, a Benjamite and "man of Belial" (worthless or lawless), incited rebellion against David. His Benjamite heritage linked him to Saul's house, highlighting ongoing tensions. Sheba's call for insurrection, "We have no part in David," surprisingly gained widespread support, with all Israel except Judah following him.
This rebellion reminds us that biblical heroes often faced turmoil, not just victories. It also shows that popular support doesn't necessarily indicate divine blessing.
Sheba's instruction for "every man to his tents" might be a euphemism for returning to polytheism, suggesting both political and spiritual rebellion. Only Judah remained faithful to David and possibly to God.
David's Return and Response (Verses 3-7)
Sheba's rebellion occurred before David's return to Jerusalem. In 2 Samuel 19, Israel welcomed David back, but felt slighted when Judah escorted him home without including them. Sheba exploited this discontent, rallying northern tribes to secede. This shows the fickleness of politics.
David first returned to Jerusalem to reestablish authority, addressing the situation of Absalom's concubines by placing them in seclusion. This approach was likely politically prudent and culturally appropriate.
Amasa, the new captain replacing Joab, delayed in following David's first instruction. Concerned about Sheba's rebellion, David called on Abishai to pursue him. Unlike his previous inclination towards violence, David now sought swift action, and Abishai led the warriors in pursuit of Sheba.
Joab’s Killing of Amasa (Verses 8-13)
During the pursuit of Sheba, Amasa intercepted David's forces. Joab, the former captain, came prepared with a hidden sword. He greeted Amasa with a "kiss of death," striking him fatally. Joab and Abishai then continued the chase. After a quick burial of Amasa, all troops followed Joab in pursuit of Sheba. This turn of events subtly positioned Joab for a potential return to power, despite David not officially reinstating him.
The Siege at Abel of Bethmaachah (Verses 14-22)
Verses 14-15 detail the movements of Sheba and Joab's forces. Sheba garnered support across Israel's tribes, while Joab and his men pursued him. The chase culminated in Abel, where Joab's forces besieged Sheba and his followers.
Joab's forces used advanced siege tactics at Abel. They built a ramp to the city wall for their battering ram, which they used to weaken and collapse the wall (v. 15). This technique was similar to methods used centuries later by Romans at Masada, showcasing its enduring effectiveness in ancient warfare.
The use of such sophisticated siege techniques demonstrates the military capabilities of David's army and their determination to quell Sheba's rebellion.
A wise woman intervenes in 2 Samuel 20:16-18, calling out to Joab. She shares a proverb: "They shall surely ask counsel at Abel: and so they ended the matter" (v. 18). This advice suggests seeking citizens' counsel before taking drastic action.
Her wisdom aligns with Deuteronomy 20:10-11, which instructs offering peace terms before attacking a city. The woman essentially tells Joab to consult Abel's people before proceeding militarily.
The wise woman of Abel skillfully appeals to Joab's respect for Israel, urging consideration over bloodshed. Joab, recognizing her wisdom, offers peace terms: "Deliver Sheba, and I'll depart." The woman, both shrewd and decisive, boldly promises Sheba's head.
Her persuasive skills swiftly resolved the siege. She convinced the city to execute Sheba, throwing his head over the wall to Joab. This decisive action ended the rebellion, as Joab had promised to withdraw once Sheba was handed over.
After receiving Sheba's head, Joab blew the trumpet, ending the conflict. The text notes that "they all departed, every man to his tent" (v. 22), which contrasts with a similar phrase in verse 1.
Scholars interpret "every man to his tents" in verse 1 as a possible euphemism for returning to polytheistic practices, while "every man to his tent" in verse 22 is seen as a literal description of the army dispersing. This distinction is based on Jewish oral tradition, specifically the Talmud's list of scribal emendations, which doesn't include the phrase from verse 22.
Following this tradition, verse 1 can be interpreted as spiritual or political rebellion, while verse 22 describes soldiers literally returning to their camps after the conflict, fitting the context of the military engagement's conclusion.
The Officers in David's Kingdom (Verses 23-26)
Verses 23-26 list key officials in David's administration after his return:
Joab: Reinstated as army commander, showing his continued importance.
Benaiah: In charge of David's personal bodyguard.
Adoram: Overseer of forced labor or tribute, a new position.
Jehoshaphat: Recorder, maintaining his pre-rebellion role.
Sheva: New royal secretary, replacing Seraiah.
Zadok and Abiathar: Continuing as priests.
Ira the Jairite: New chief advisor, possibly to broaden support.
