2 Samuel 20:17

KJV

And when he was come near unto her, the woman said, [Art] thou Joab? And he answered, I [am he]. Then she said unto him, Hear the words of thine handmaid. And he answered, I do hear.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when he was come near {H7126} unto her, the woman {H802} said {H559}, Art thou Joab {H3097}? And he answered {H559}, I am he. Then she said {H559} unto him, Hear {H8085} the words {H1697} of thine handmaid {H519}. And he answered {H559}, I do hear {H8085}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He approached her, and the woman asked, "Are you Yo'av?" He answered, "I am." She said to him, "Listen to what your servant has to say." He answered, "I'm listening."

Berean Standard Bible

When he had come near to her, the woman asked, “Are you Joab?” “I am,” he replied. “Listen to the words of your servant,” she said. “I am listening,” he answered.

American Standard Version

And he came near unto her; and the woman said, Art thou Joab? And he answered, I am. Then she said unto him, Hear the words of thy handmaid. And he answered, I do hear.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 20:17 marks the critical juncture of a tense standoff, capturing the initial, courageous dialogue between an unnamed wise woman from the besieged city of Abel of Beth-maachah and Joab, King David's formidable military commander. This exchange is pivotal, initiating a diplomatic negotiation that swiftly de-escalates a potentially devastating siege and ultimately leads to a peaceful resolution, showcasing the profound power of wisdom, humility, and dialogue in averting conflict and preserving life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated in the immediate aftermath of Absalom's rebellion and King David's return to Jerusalem. The narrative in [2 Samuel 20](/2_samuel/20 "2 Samuel 20 - Sheba's Rebellion and Death") details a new insurrection led by Sheba, son of Bichri, a Benjaminite who capitalized on the lingering discontent among the tribes of Israel. Joab, having been reinstated as commander, pursues Sheba, who has taken refuge in the fortified city of Abel of Beth-maachah. As Joab's forces begin to construct a siege ramp against the city wall (implied by the "battering" in [2 Samuel 20:15](/2_samuel/20-15 "2 Samuel 20:15 - The Siege of Abel")), the city faces imminent destruction. It is at this critical moment, as the siege intensifies, that a "wise woman" (introduced in [2 Samuel 20:16](/2_samuel/20-16 "2 Samuel 20:16 - The Wise Woman of Abel")) takes the initiative to approach Joab, setting the stage for the dialogue recorded in verse 17. This verse is the opening of a crucial conversation that will lead to the city's deliverance and Sheba's demise.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is ancient Israel, a period often characterized by tribal tensions and frequent military conflicts, especially during the early monarchy. Fortified cities like Abel of Beth-maachah were common, serving as refuges during times of war. Sieges were brutal affairs, often ending in the complete destruction of the city and its inhabitants if resistance continued. The presence of a "wise woman" who steps forward to negotiate is notable; while not common, the Old Testament occasionally highlights women who play significant roles in public life, often through wisdom or intercession (e.g., the wise woman of Tekoa in [2 Samuel 14](/2_samuel/14 "2 Samuel 14 - The Wise Woman of Tekoa")). Her ability to directly address a powerful military commander like Joab, and his willingness to hear her, speaks to a cultural understanding of the potential for wisdom to transcend social hierarchies, particularly in moments of extreme crisis. Her use of the term "thine handmaid" is a standard respectful and humble form of address to a superior, designed to elicit a favorable hearing.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within [2 Samuel](/2_samuel "2 Samuel - David's Reign"):
* **Wisdom and Diplomacy:** The woman's immediate and direct approach to Joab, coupled with her strategic opening of dialogue, exemplifies profound wisdom. Her actions demonstrate that words, when applied judiciously, can be more powerful than weapons, averting potential devastation for her city. This highlights the biblical value of seeking peace through thoughtful communication, as seen in [Proverbs 15:1](/proverbs/15-1 "Proverbs 15:1 - A Soft Answer Turns Away Wrath").
* **Leadership and Openness:** Despite his reputation as a ruthless and decisive military leader, Joab's response, "I do hear," signifies a crucial openness to dialogue. This willingness to listen, even to an unexpected voice from a besieged city, is essential for effective leadership, particularly in times of conflict, and contrasts sharply with his more aggressive tendencies elsewhere in [David's reign](/2_samuel/8 "2 Samuel 8 - David's Victories").
* **Intercession and Preservation of Life:** The woman acts as an intercessor for her city, bravely placing herself between Joab's army and the inhabitants. She speaks on behalf of her community, seeking a peaceful resolution that benefits all. This role of intercession, where individuals plead for others, is a recurring motif throughout Scripture, underscoring the value of human life and the pursuit of peace over destruction.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Joab (Hebrew, _Yo'av'_):** As King David's commander of the army, Joab was a formidable and often ruthless figure, known for his military prowess and unwavering loyalty to David, though sometimes operating outside David's direct orders (e.g., the killing of Abner in [2 Samuel 3:27](/2_samuel/3-27 "2 Samuel 3:27 - Joab Kills Abner")). His presence at the city wall signified imminent destruction. The woman's direct address, "Art thou Joab?", indicates her awareness of his identity and the gravity of the situation, recognizing him as the ultimate authority figure she needed to engage.
* **Handmaid (Hebrew, _'amah'_):** The term "thine handmaid" (KJV) is a common expression of humility and submission used by an inferior when addressing a superior. It is not necessarily indicative of literal servitude but rather a respectful and deferential posture designed to gain a hearing. By presenting herself as Joab's "handmaid," the wise woman subtly appeals to his sense of honor and perhaps even mercy, framing her request as a humble petition rather than a demand, thereby fostering an environment conducive to dialogue.
* **Hear (Hebrew, _shama'_):** Joab's crucial response, "I do hear" (or "I hear"), uses the Hebrew verb _shama'_, which means not only to perceive sound but also to listen attentively, understand, and even obey. In this context, it signifies Joab's willingness to grant the woman an audience and consider her words, a vital turning point that shifts the encounter from military confrontation to diplomatic negotiation. It demonstrates a surprising receptiveness from a commander known for decisive action.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when he was come near unto her, the woman said, [Art] thou Joab?"**: This opening clause establishes the scene of confrontation and the woman's remarkable courage. She does not cower but actively approaches the powerful general. Her direct question, "Art thou Joab?", is not merely for identification but serves to confirm she is speaking to the person with authority to make decisions, thereby cutting through any intermediaries and signaling her intent to engage directly with the power holder.
* **"And he answered, I [am he]."**: Joab's concise and direct confirmation validates her approach. His simple "I am he" acknowledges his identity and implicitly grants her the right to speak, setting the stage for the crucial dialogue that follows. This immediate confirmation is vital for the swift progression of the negotiation.
* **"Then she said unto him, Hear the words of thine handmaid."**: With Joab's identity confirmed, the woman immediately transitions to her plea. Her request, "Hear the words of thine handmaid," is a polite but urgent appeal for an audience. The use of "thine handmaid" is a strategic act of humility, designed to disarm Joab and secure his attention, presenting herself as a humble petitioner rather than a defiant enemy.
* **"And he answered, I do hear."**: This final phrase in the verse is the linchpin. Joab's affirmative "I do hear" (KJV) or "I am listening" (ESV) is more than a mere acknowledgment; it is a commitment to give her words full consideration. This response is critical, as it opens the door for the woman to present her case, transforming a military siege into a potential diplomatic resolution. It reveals a surprising, yet essential, facet of Joab's leadership—a capacity for strategic listening.

#### Literary Devices
The encounter in 2 Samuel 20:17 is rich with literary devices. The primary device is **Dialogue**, which serves as the central mechanism for advancing the plot and revealing character. The direct, concise exchange between the woman and Joab immediately establishes the high stakes and the woman's proactive, courageous nature, contrasting with the implied fear of the city's inhabitants. There is an element of **Foreshadowing** in Joab's "I do hear," as it hints at the peaceful resolution that will follow, suggesting that the conversation will indeed be fruitful. The scene also employs **Contrast**, particularly between Joab's typical ruthless military persona and his surprising willingness to listen to an anonymous woman. This moment of receptiveness stands in stark opposition to his earlier, more violent actions. Furthermore, the woman's use of "thine handmaid" is a form of **Humility** and **Strategic Deference**, a rhetorical tactic designed to disarm and persuade. Her very presence and initiative also embody **Intercession**, as she stands as a mediator for her city, demonstrating the power of a single individual to avert widespread destruction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The dialogue in 2 Samuel 20:17 underscores profound theological truths about the nature of wisdom, leadership, and divine providence. It illustrates that God can use unexpected agents, even an unnamed woman from a besieged city, to bring about His purposes of preserving life and de-escalating conflict. The woman's wisdom is not merely intellectual but practical and redemptive, demonstrating that true wisdom is often found in the courage to speak truth and seek peace. Joab's willingness to listen, despite his position and the urgency of the siege, highlights the importance of open leadership and the capacity for even hardened individuals to be swayed by reasoned appeal. This interaction serves as a powerful testament to the value of human life and the potential for peaceful resolution, even in the direst circumstances, reflecting God's desire for reconciliation over destruction.

* [Proverbs 15:1](/proverbs/15-1 "Proverbs 15:1 - A Soft Answer Turns Away Wrath")
* [Proverbs 24:6](/proverbs/24-6 "Proverbs 24:6 - By Wise Counsel You Wage Your War")
* [James 3:17](/james/3-17 "James 3:17 - Wisdom from Above is Peaceable")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The brief but potent exchange in 2 Samuel 20:17 offers timeless lessons for navigating conflict and fostering reconciliation in our own lives and communities. It powerfully demonstrates the transformative potential of courageous dialogue. In a world often quick to resort to aggression or dismiss opposing voices, this narrative reminds us of the profound impact of simply being willing to engage and listen. The "wise woman" embodies the courage to step into a dangerous situation, not with a weapon, but with words, seeking common ground and a peaceful path. Her humility in addressing Joab, coupled with her clear purpose, created an opening where none seemed possible. Similarly, Joab's unexpected receptiveness, his "I do hear," teaches us that true strength in leadership often lies not in unyielding force, but in the capacity to pause, listen, and consider alternative perspectives, even from those we might perceive as adversaries or subordinates. This encounter challenges us to cultivate wisdom that seeks peace, courage that initiates dialogue, and humility that opens ears and hearts, transforming potential destruction into resolution.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what situations in your life are you tempted to use force or avoidance rather than initiating a difficult but necessary dialogue?**
* **How can you cultivate the kind of wisdom that allows you to see a path to peace where others only see conflict?**
* **When have you experienced the power of someone truly listening to you, and how did it impact the situation?**
* **What does it mean to act as an "intercessor" for peace in your family, workplace, or community, even when it feels risky?**

### FAQ
**Who was the "wise woman" of Abel, and why was she able to speak to Joab?**

Answer: The Bible does not name the "wise woman" of Abel of Beth-maachah, which is common for many significant figures in the Old Testament. Her anonymity, however, highlights that wisdom can emerge from unexpected places and individuals, regardless of their social standing. She was able to speak to Joab likely due to a combination of factors: her reputation for wisdom (as noted in [2 Samuel 20:16](/2_samuel/20-16 "2 Samuel 20:16 - The Wise Woman of Abel")), the dire circumstances of the siege which necessitated desperate measures, and her courageous initiative. In ancient Near Eastern culture, while women typically held different societal roles than men, there were instances where women of exceptional wisdom or courage were recognized and consulted, particularly in times of crisis. Her respectful and humble address ("thine handmaid") also likely contributed to Joab's willingness to hear her out.

**Why did Joab, a ruthless military commander, agree to listen to an unnamed woman?**

Answer: Joab's decision to listen to the wise woman, despite his reputation for ruthlessness and the urgency of the siege, reveals a pragmatic and strategic side to his character. He was fiercely loyal to David and focused on achieving his objectives with minimal cost. Destroying an entire city was a significant undertaking, and if there was a way to apprehend Sheba without such devastation, it was strategically advantageous. The woman's immediate and direct approach, combined with her respectful demeanor, signaled that she had a proposition of substance. Joab, as a seasoned commander, would have recognized the potential for a quicker, less costly resolution than a full-scale assault, making her offer of dialogue a viable and efficient path to achieving his mission.

**What was Sheba's rebellion about, and how does this verse relate to its end?**

Answer: Sheba's rebellion, detailed in [2 Samuel 20](/2_samuel/20 "2 Samuel 20 - Sheba's Rebellion and Death"), was a post-Absalom revolt that capitalized on the lingering discontent among the tribes of Israel, particularly over David's perceived favoritism towards Judah. Sheba, a Benjaminite, rallied the northern tribes with the cry, "We have no portion in David, nor any inheritance in the son of Jesse!" ([2 Samuel 20:1](/2_samuel/20-1 "2 Samuel 20:1 - Sheba's Rebellion")). Joab pursued Sheba to Abel of Beth-maachah, where Sheba had taken refuge. 2 Samuel 20:17 is the pivotal moment where the wise woman initiates dialogue with Joab, offering a way to end the siege and rebellion without further bloodshed for the city. Her subsequent proposal leads to the city's inhabitants delivering Sheba's head to Joab, thus swiftly and decisively ending the rebellion and saving their city from destruction.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The encounter in 2 Samuel 20:17, where a wise woman's courageous words avert destruction, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate intercession and wisdom embodied in Jesus Christ. Just as the woman stood between Joab's wrath and her city, Christ stands as the supreme mediator between a holy God and sinful humanity, interceding on our behalf, as described in [Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ Our Intercessor"). The wisdom she displayed, turning conflict into peace, finds its perfect fulfillment in Christ, who is the very wisdom of God ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom")) and our ultimate peacemaker ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")). Furthermore, the woman's humble address as "thine handmaid" resonates with Christ's own profound humility, who, though God, "made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ Takes the Form of a Servant")), demonstrating that true power and authority are found in self-giving service and a willingness to listen and engage with all, even the marginalized, for the sake of reconciliation and salvation.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 25:24

And fell at his feet, and said, Upon me, my lord, [upon] me [let this] iniquity [be]: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine audience, and hear the words of thine handmaid.

2 Samuel 14:12

Then the woman said, Let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak [one] word unto my lord the king. And he said, Say on.