TRV
Translation
King James Version
But Amasa took no heed to the sword that was in Joab's hand: so he smote him therewith in the fifth rib, and shed out his bowels to the ground, and struck him not again; and he died. So Joab and Abishai his brother pursued after Sheba the son of Bichri.
KJV (with Strong's)
But Amasa H6021 took no heed H8104 to the sword H2719 that was in Joab's H3097 hand H3027: so he smote H5221 him therewith in the fifth H2570 rib, and shed out H8210 his bowels H4578 to the ground H776, and struck him not again H8138; and he died H4191. So Joab H3097 and Abishai H52 his brother H251 pursued H7291 after H310 Sheba H7652 the son H1121 of Bichri H1075.
Complete Jewish Bible
'Amasa took no notice of the sword in Yo'av's hand, so Yo'av stabbed him in the groin. His insides poured out on the ground, and he died without being stabbed a second time. Yo'av and Avishai his brother continued in pursuit of Sheva the son of Bikhri.
Berean Standard Bible
Amasa was not on guard against the dagger in Joab’s hand, and Joab stabbed him in the stomach and spilled out his intestines on the ground. And Joab did not need to strike him again, for Amasa was dead. Then Joab and his brother Abishai pursued Sheba son of Bichri.
American Standard Version
But Amasa took no heed to the sword that was in Joab’s hand: so he smote him therewith in the body, and shed out his bowels to the ground, and struck him not again; and he died. And Joab and Abishai his brother pursued after Sheba the son of Bichri.
World English Bible Messianic
But Amasa took no heed to the sword that was in Joab’s hand. So he struck him with it in the body, and shed out his bowels to the ground, and didn’t strike him again; and he died. Joab and Abishai his brother pursued after Sheba the son of Bichri.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But Amasa tooke no heede to the sworde that was in Ioabs hande: for therewith he smote him in the fift rib, and shed out his bowels to the ground, and smote him not the second time: so he dyed. then Ioab and Abishai his brother followed after Sheba the sonne of Bichri.
Young's Literal Translation
and Amasa hath not been watchful of the sword that is in the hand of Joab, and he smiteth him with it unto the fifth rib , and sheddeth out his bowels to the earth, and he hath not repeated it to him, and he dieth; and Joab and Abishai his brother have pursued after Sheba son of Bichri.
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In the KJVVerse 8,565 of 31,102
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Commentary on 2 Samuel 20 verses 4–13
4 ¶ Then said the king to Amasa, Assemble me the men of Judah within three days, and be thou here present.
5 So Amasa went to assemble the men of Judah: but he tarried longer than the set time which he had appointed him.
6 And David said to Abishai, Now shall Sheba the son of Bichri do us more harm than did Absalom: take thou thy lord's servants, and pursue after him, lest he get him fenced cities, and escape us.
7 And there went out after him Joab's men, and the Cherethites, and the Pelethites, and all the mighty men: and they went out of Jerusalem, to pursue after Sheba the son of Bichri.
8 When they were at the great stone which is in Gibeon, Amasa went before them. And Joab's garment that he had put on was girded unto him, and upon it a girdle with a sword fastened upon his loins in the sheath thereof; and as he went forth it fell out.
9 And Joab said to Amasa, Art thou in health, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him.
10 But Amasa took no heed to the sword that was in Joab's hand: so he smote him therewith in the fifth rib, and shed out his bowels to the ground, and struck him not again; and he died. So Joab and Abishai his brother pursued after Sheba the son of Bichri.
11 And one of Joab's men stood by him, and said, He that favoureth Joab, and he that is for David, let him go after Joab.
12 And Amasa wallowed in blood in the midst of the highway. And when the man saw that all the people stood still, he removed Amasa out of the highway into the field, and cast a cloth upon him, when he saw that every one that came by him stood still.
13 When he was removed out of the highway, all the people went on after Joab, to pursue after Sheba the son of Bichri.
We have here Amasa's fall just as he began to rise. He was nephew to David (Sa2 17:25), had been Absalom's general and commander-in-chief of his rebellious army, but, that being routed, he came over into David's interest, upon a promise that he should be general of his forces instead of Joab. Sheba's rebellion gives David an occasion to fulfil his promise sooner than he could wish, but Joab's envy and emulation rendered its fulfillment of ill consequence both to him and David.
I. Amasa has a commission to raise forces for the suppressing of Sheba's rebellion, and is ordered to raise them with all possible expedition, Sa2 20:4. It seems, the men of Judah, though forward to attend the king's triumphs, were backward enough to fight his battles; else, when they were all in a body attending him to Jerusalem, they might immediately have pursued Sheba, and have crushed that cockatrice in the egg. But most love a loyalty, as well as a religion, that is cheap and easy. Many boast of their being akin to Christ that yet are very loth to venture for him. Amasa is sent to assemble the men of Judah within three days; but he finds them so backward and unready that he cannot do it within the time appointed (Sa2 20:5), though the promotion of Amasa, who had been their general under Absalom, was very obliging to them, and a proof of the clemency of David's government.
II. Upon Amasa's delay, Abishai, the brother of Joab, is ordered to take the guards and standing forces, and with them to pursue Sheba (Sa2 20:6, Sa2 20:7), for nothing could be of more dangerous consequence than to give him time. David gives these orders to Abishai, because he resolves to mortify Joab, and degrade him, not so much, I doubt, for the blood of Abner, which he had shed basely, as for the blood of Absalom, which he had shed justly and honourably. "Now (says bishop Hall) Joab smarteth for a loyal disobedience. How slippery are the stations of earthly honours and subject to continual mutability! Happy are those who are in favour with him in whom there is no shadow of change." Joab, without orders, though in disgrace, goes along with his brother, knowing he might be serviceable to the public, or perhaps now meditating the removal of his rival.
III. Joab, near Gibeon, meets with Amasa, and barbarously murders him, Sa2 20:8-10. It should seem, the great stone in Gibeon was the place appointed for the general rendezvous. There the rivals met; and Amasa, relying upon his commission, went before, as general both of the new-raised forces which he had got together, and of the veteran troops which Abishai had brought in; but Joab there took an opportunity to kill him with his own hand; and, 1. He did it subtilely, and with contrivance, and not upon a sudden provocation. He girded his coat about him, that it might not hang in his way, and girded his belt upon his coat, that his sword might be the readier to his hand; he also put his sword in a sheath too big for it, that, whenever he pleased, it might, upon a little shake, fall out, as if it fell by accident, and so he might take it into his hand, unsuspected, as if he were going to return it into the scabbard, when he designed to sheath it in the bowels of Amasa. The more there is of plot in a sin the worse it is. 2. He did it treacherously, and under pretence of friendship, that Amasa might not be upon his guard. He called him brother, for they were own cousins, enquired of his welfare (Art thou in health?) and took him by the beard, as one he was free with, to kiss him, while with the drawn sword in his other hand he was aiming at his heart. Was this done like a gentleman, like a soldier, like a general? No, but like a villain, like a base coward. Just thus he slew Abner, and went unpunished for it, which encouraged him to do the like again. 3. He did it impudently, not in a corner, but at the head of his troops, and in their sight, as one that was neither ashamed nor afraid to do it, that was so hardened in blood and murders that he could neither blush nor tremble. 4. He did it at one blow, gave the fatal push with a good-will, as we say, so that he needed not strike him again; with such a strong and steady hand he gave this one stroke that it was fatal. 5. He did it in contempt and defiance of David and the commission he had given to Amasa; for that commission was the only ground of his quarrel with him, so that David was struck at through the side of Amasa, and was, in effect, told to his face that Joab would be general, in spite of him. 6. He did it very unseasonably, when they were going against a common enemy and were concerned to be unanimous. This ill-timed quarrel might have scattered their forces, or engaged them one against another, and so have made them all an easy prey to Sheba. So contentedly could Joab sacrifice the interest both of king and kingdom to his personal revenge.
IV. Joab immediately resumes his general's place, and takes care to lead the army on in pursuit of Sheba, that, if possible, he might prevent any prejudice to the common cause by what he had done. 1. He leaves one of his men to make proclamation to the forces that were coming up that they were still engaged in David's cause, but under Joab's command, Sa2 20:11. He knew what an interest he had in the soldiery, and how many favoured him rather than Amasa, who had been a traitor, was now a turn-coat, and had never been successful; on this he boldly relied, and called them all to follow him. What man of Judah would not be for his old king and his old general? But one would wonder with what face a murderer could pursue a traitor; and how, under such a heavy load of guilt, he had courage to enter upon danger. Surely his conscience was seared with a hot iron. 2. care is taken to remove the dead body out of the way, because at that they made a stand (as Sa2 2:23), and to cover it with a cloth, Sa2 20:12, Sa2 20:13. Wicked men think themselves safe in their wickedness if they can but conceal it from the eye of the world: if it be hidden, it is with them as if it were never done. But the covering of blood with a cloth cannot stop its cry in God's ear for vengeance, or make it the less loud. However, since this was no time to arraign Joab for what he had done, and the common safety called for expedition, it was prudent to remove that which retarded the march of the army; and then they all went on after Joab, while David, who no doubt had notice soon brought him of this tragedy, could not but reflect upon it with regret that he had not formerly done justice upon Joab for the death of Abner, and that he now had exposed Amasa by preferring him. And perhaps his conscience reminded him of his employing Joab in the murder of Uriah, which had helped to harden him in cruelty.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 4–13. Public domain.
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John ChrysostomAD 407
HOMILIES ON THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW 42.2
Would you like that, in another way also, I should make what I say plainer? Let us look into their case, [to those] who avenge themselves even justly. For concerning the wrongdoers, that they are the most worthless of all people, warring against their own soul, is surely plain to every one.But who avenged himself justly yet kindled innumerable ills and pierced himself through with many calamities and sorrows? The captain of David’s host. For Joab both stirred up a grievous war and suffered unnumbered evils; not one of them would have happened had he but known how to exercise self-control. Let us flee therefore from this sin and neither in words nor deeds do our neighbors wrong.
Gregory the DialogistAD 604
MORALS ON THE BOOK OF JOB 15.11
Thus also the wicked, because they have evil not upon the tongue but under the tongue, in the words of their mouth they hold out sweet things, and in the thoughts of their heart are plotting mischief. For it is hence that Joab held the beard of Amasa with his right hand, while secretly putting his left hand to his sword, he spilled out his bowels. For to hold the chin with the right hand is to caress as if in kindness. But he puts his left hand to his sword, who in secret strikes in malice.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
2 Samuel 20:10 graphically recounts the treacherous assassination of Amasa by Joab, King David's ruthless nephew and former army commander. Under the guise of a friendly greeting, Joab fatally stabs Amasa, whom David had recently appointed to lead his forces, demonstrating Joab's unyielding ambition and brutal determination to eliminate rivals and maintain his power. This pivotal moment underscores the deep-seated political intrigue and violence that plagued David's reign, even as he sought to restore stability and unity to his kingdom.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices to convey its dramatic and tragic impact. Irony is prominent in Joab's deceptive greeting, where a gesture of peace (the kiss) conceals a murderous intent, creating a stark contrast between appearance and reality. The narrative uses vivid Graphic Imagery ("shed out his bowels to the ground") to underscore the brutality and finality of Amasa's death, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. This serves to highlight the ruthless nature of the political violence within David's court. Furthermore, the swift transition from the assassination to Joab and Abishai's continued pursuit of Sheba demonstrates Narrative Efficiency and reinforces Joab's cold, calculating character, emphasizing that the murder was a strategic move rather than an emotional outburst. The entire scene also functions as a form of Foreshadowing, hinting at the ongoing violence and power struggles that will plague David's reign and ultimately lead to Joab's own demise under Solomon, as recounted in 1 Kings 2:28-34.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The tragic account of Amasa's murder by Joab serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of sin, even within the chosen people of God and among those who serve His anointed king. It illustrates the destructive power of unchecked ambition, jealousy, and treachery, revealing how personal animosities and the lust for power can override loyalty, justice, and even basic human decency. The incident underscores the fragility of human relationships and political structures in the face of such corruption, highlighting the need for divine justice and a righteous ruler who can truly establish peace and order. It also implicitly points to the fallen state of humanity, where even the most sacred bonds can be broken by self-interest, and where the consequences of such actions reverberate through individuals, families, and nations.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This passage compels us to reflect deeply on the dangers of unchecked ambition and the insidious nature of betrayal, even from unexpected sources. It serves as a sober warning against the corrupting influence of power and the destructive path of jealousy. For individuals, it calls for discernment and vigilance, reminding us that not all greetings are genuine and that true character is revealed not in outward show but in underlying motives. For those in leadership, it highlights the immense challenge of managing powerful personalities and the potential for internal strife to undermine even the noblest of intentions. Spiritually, Amasa's vulnerability due to his "taking no heed" can be a metaphor for our own spiritual complacency, urging us to be vigilant against the subtle deceptions of the enemy and the temptations of our own hearts. Ultimately, this narrative invites us to examine our own hearts for any seeds of envy or ambition that might lead to destructive actions, and to pursue integrity, humility, and genuine love in all our interactions.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Amasa "take no heed" to the sword?
Answer: Amasa likely "took no heed" for several reasons. Firstly, Joab was his cousin and a prominent figure, making a direct, unprovoked attack seem unlikely. Secondly, Joab's approach was deceptive, feigning a friendly greeting with a kiss, a common gesture of peace and respect. Amasa might have been caught off guard, distracted by the apparent cordiality, or simply trusting that a fellow commander would not act so treacherously in broad daylight. This oversight underscores the cunning nature of Joab's betrayal and Amasa's vulnerability to such a calculated deception.
What was Joab's primary motivation for killing Amasa?
Answer: Joab's primary motivation was to eliminate a rival and reclaim his undisputed position as the commander of King David's army. David had recently appointed Amasa to this role, as recorded in 2 Samuel 19:13, a move that directly threatened Joab's power and influence, which he had held for many years. Joab was known for his ruthless ambition and willingness to remove anyone who stood in his way, as evidenced by his previous murder of Abner in 2 Samuel 3:27. Amasa's death ensured Joab's return to the top military command, allowing him to continue the pursuit of Sheba's rebellion without interference.
What does this event reveal about King David's reign?
Answer: This event reveals the deep-seated challenges and moral compromises within King David's reign. Despite David's desire for justice and unity, his kingdom was plagued by internal strife, treachery, and violence, often perpetrated by those closest to him. It shows David's struggle to control powerful and often insubordinate figures like Joab, highlighting the limits of his authority and his inability or unwillingness to decisively deal with Joab's repeated acts of murder. The incident also underscores the ongoing consequences of sin and the instability that can persist even under a divinely chosen king, demonstrating that human leadership, no matter how anointed, remains flawed and susceptible to corruption.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The gruesome treachery of Joab against Amasa, a man appointed by the king, finds a profound and sobering echo in the ultimate betrayal of the King of Kings, Jesus Christ. Just as Amasa was deceived by a feigned greeting, so too was Jesus betrayed by a kiss from Judas Iscariot, one of His own disciples, leading to His arrest and crucifixion, as detailed in Matthew 26:48-49. Joab's ambition led him to shed innocent blood for earthly power, but Christ, though innocent, willingly shed His own blood, not for power, but to secure eternal life and true spiritual authority for all who believe, as He declares in John 10:11. This passage from 2 Samuel starkly illustrates the depth of human depravity and the pervasive nature of sin, which ultimately necessitated the perfect sacrifice of the Lamb of God. In contrast to the flawed and often violent leadership of David's era, Jesus reigns as the righteous King, whose kingdom is not of this world, as He affirmed in John 18:36, established not by treachery and bloodshed, but by self-giving love and ultimate redemption. He is the true commander, whose authority is exercised with perfect justice and unwavering faithfulness, bringing true peace and reconciliation where human ambition and sin bring only chaos and death, as described in Ephesians 2:14-16.