1 Chronicles 21:4

Nevertheless the king's word prevailed against Joab. Wherefore Joab departed, and went throughout all Israel, and came to Jerusalem.

Nevertheless the king's {H4428} word {H1697} prevailed {H2388} against Joab {H3097}. Wherefore Joab {H3097} departed {H3318}, and went {H1980} throughout all Israel {H3478}, and came {H935} to Jerusalem {H3389}.

Nevertheless, the king's word prevailed against Yo'av. So Yo'av left and went through all Isra'el, after which he came to Yerushalayim.

Nevertheless, the king’s word prevailed against Joab. So Joab departed and traveled throughout Israel, and then he returned to Jerusalem.

Nevertheless the king’s word prevailed against Joab. Wherefore Joab departed, and went throughout all Israel, and came to Jerusalem.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 21:4 (KJV) marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of King David's ill-fated census, highlighting the triumph of royal decree over the strong objections of his most trusted military commander, Joab.

Context of 1 Chronicles 21:4

This verse is situated at the beginning of a significant account detailing King David's decision to number the fighting men of Israel. According to 1 Chronicles 21:1, this action was incited by Satan, indicating it was not from God and carried negative spiritual implications. David commanded Joab, his loyal but often pragmatic general, to carry out the census. Joab, understanding the potential spiritual ramifications and recognizing the act as displeasing to God, strongly advised against it, as seen in 1 Chronicles 21:3. Despite Joab's wisdom and clear warning, David's resolve remained unyielding.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Authority and Compliance: The phrase "the king's word prevailed against Joab" underscores the absolute nature of royal authority in ancient Israel. Even a powerful and influential figure like Joab, who had valid concerns, ultimately had to submit to the king's direct command. This highlights the chain of command and the duty of obedience, even when one disagrees.
  • The Initiation of a Fateful Decision: This verse marks the point of no return for David's census. Joab's departure to carry out the numbering signifies the beginning of an action that would bring severe divine judgment upon Israel, as later detailed in 1 Chronicles 21:7 and subsequent verses. It serves as a reminder of how unchecked human will or pride can lead to significant consequences.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "prevailed" is gabar (גָּבַר), which means "to be strong," "to be mighty," or "to overcome." Its use here emphasizes the decisive and unyielding nature of David's command. It wasn't just that Joab eventually complied, but that David's will was stronger and ultimately overcame Joab's resistance, leaving no room for further debate.

Practical Application and Reflection

1 Chronicles 21:4 offers several insights for modern readers. It reminds us that even leaders with good intentions can make poor decisions, and sometimes, those closest to them may see the error but be unable to prevent it. It highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel, but also the ultimate responsibility of those in authority to heed such advice. For individuals, it can be a cautionary tale about the dangers of stubbornness and the potential for one's will to override better judgment, leading to unforeseen and sometimes painful consequences. The narrative encourages careful consideration of actions, especially when they go against the wisdom of others or the perceived will of God.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Ecclesiastes 8:4 (2 votes)

    Where the word of a king [is, there is] power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?

  • Acts 5:29 (2 votes)

    Then Peter and the [other] apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

  • Daniel 3:18 (2 votes)

    But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

  • Exodus 1:17 (2 votes)

    But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

  • 2 Samuel 24:3 (2 votes)

    And Joab said unto the king, Now the LORD thy God add unto the people, how many soever they be, an hundredfold, and that the eyes of my lord the king may see [it]: but why doth my lord the king delight in this thing?

  • 2 Samuel 24:8 (2 votes)

    So when they had gone through all the land, they came to Jerusalem at the end of nine months and twenty days.