MPV Commentary

Sheba Makes a Party in Israel.

1. Sheba was a Benjamite who must have been a person of considerable power and influence to raise such a sudden and extensive rebellion against David's authority in Israel. He belonged to the tribe of Benjamin, where Saul's dynasty still had many adherents, and he saw an opportunity to exploit Judah's dissatisfaction with their role in restoring David.

Every man to his tents was the watchword of national insurrection, likely derived from the fact that many Israelite peasants lived in tents while tilling the land. This phrase was often used to signal a rebellion, and it had a profound effect on the people, leading to consequences beyond what Sheba might have anticipated.

2. The quarrel between Judah and the other tribes began shortly after crossing the Jordan River, resulting in Judah being left nearly alone to escort David to Jerusalem.

3. When David took the ten women who were his concubines, he treated them with dignity by not divorcing them, despite their public humiliation at Absalom's hands. Instead, they were no longer publicly recognized as his wives and lived a secluded life, which was not an unusual arrangement in that culture.

4. The king instructed Amasa to assemble the men of Judah within three days to put down the insurrection. However, this appointment proved to be a blunder, as Amasa failed to muster the required forces. Fearing further delay, David gave the commission to Abishai instead of Joab, who was likely wounded by this affront.

8. Amasa led his gathered forces and overtook the expedition at Gibeon, assuming command and being saluted by Joab among others. Joab wore a traveler's garment, which he had girded around him in the usual fashion for soldiers on the move.

As Joab approached Amasa, his sword fell out of its scabbard, either accidentally or intentionally, according to Josephus' account. In any case, this allowed Joab to greet Amasa with a naked sword in hand without arousing suspicion.

9. Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand, as if to kiss him, which was a common greeting between friends after a long absence. This act of respect and kindness put Amasa off guard, allowing Joab to strike him down while he was distracted.