1 Chronicles 11:6

And David said, Whosoever smiteth the Jebusites first shall be chief and captain. So Joab the son of Zeruiah went first up, and was chief.

And David {H1732} said {H559}, Whosoever smiteth {H5221} the Jebusites {H2983} first {H7223} shall be chief {H7218} and captain {H8269}. So Joab {H3097} the son {H1121} of Zeruiah {H6870} went {H5927} first {H7223} up {H5927}, and was chief {H7218}.

David said, "Whoever attacks the Y'vusi first will be commander-in-chief." Yo'av the son of Tz'ruyah attacked first and was made commander.

Now David had said, “Whoever is the first to strike down a Jebusite will become chief commander.” And Joab son of Zeruiah went up first, and he became the chief.

And David said, Whosoever smiteth the Jebusites first shall be chief and captain. And Joab the son of Zeruiah went up first, and was made chief.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 11:6 recounts a pivotal moment in King David's early reign, detailing the capture of Jerusalem and the rise of Joab as his chief military commander.

Historical and Cultural Context

After being anointed king over all Israel, as detailed in 1 Chronicles 11:3, King David's first major strategic move was to establish a unified capital for his kingdom. The city of Jerusalem, then known as Jebus, was occupied by the Jebusites, a Canaanite tribe. It was a formidable fortress, often considered impregnable due to its natural defenses. David's challenge to his men highlights his leadership and determination to secure a central, neutral capital that could unite the northern and southern tribes. This significant event is also recorded with slightly more detail in the parallel account found in 2 Samuel 5:6-9.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Strategic Leadership: David demonstrates shrewd military and political insight by identifying Jerusalem as the ideal capital and motivating his troops with a clear incentive.
  • Courage and Initiative: Joab's immediate and successful assault on the Jebusite stronghold showcases his bravery and willingness to take decisive action, earning him the highest military rank.
  • Merit-Based Promotion: The verse illustrates a system where leadership positions were earned through demonstrated valor and achievement, rather than solely by lineage or favoritism.
  • The Founding of the City of David: This conquest marks the beginning of Jerusalem's significance as the political and spiritual heart of Israel, later known as the "City of David" and the site of the Temple.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "smiteth" (nakah) here implies a decisive blow or defeat, indicating a successful military conquest. The terms "chief and captain" (Hebrew: rosh and sar) together signify the highest military authority, confirming Joab's appointment as the commander-in-chief of David's army, a position he would hold throughout much of David's reign (see also 2 Samuel 8:16).

Practical Application

This verse offers valuable lessons about leadership and ambition. It teaches us the importance of setting clear objectives and challenging others to rise to the occasion. Joab's example reminds us that initiative and courage in pursuing a worthy goal can lead to significant opportunities and responsibilities. It underscores the principle that demonstrated capability and a willingness to tackle difficult tasks are often rewarded, both in secular and spiritual endeavors. Just as David sought to establish a strong, unified kingdom, believers are called to participate actively in building up the body of Christ, often requiring courage and resolve in the face of spiritual challenges.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 8:16 (5 votes)

    And Joab the son of Zeruiah [was] over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud [was] recorder;

  • 2 Samuel 20:23 (2 votes)

    ¶ Now Joab [was] over all the host of Israel: and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada [was] over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites:

  • 1 Samuel 17:25 (2 votes)

    And the men of Israel said, Have ye seen this man that is come up? surely to defy Israel is he come up: and it shall be, [that] the man who killeth him, the king will enrich him with great riches, and will give him his daughter, and make his father's house free in Israel.

  • Joshua 15:16 (2 votes)

    And Caleb said, He that smiteth Kirjathsepher, and taketh it, to him will I give Achsah my daughter to wife.

  • Joshua 15:17 (2 votes)

    And Othniel the son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, took it: and he gave him Achsah his daughter to wife.

  • 2 Samuel 3:27 (2 votes)

    And when Abner was returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside in the gate to speak with him quietly, and smote him there under the fifth [rib], that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.

  • 2 Samuel 2:18 (2 votes)

    ¶ And there were three sons of Zeruiah there, Joab, and Abishai, and Asahel: and Asahel [was as] light of foot as a wild roe.