Leader: Sheba, Son of Bichri, described as "a son of Belial, a "Man
from Mt Ephraim (vs 21)
People: Renegade Israelites
Object
To put down the uprising of Bichri, which took much of Israel in
rebellion:
To re-unify Israel and Judah (Bichri claims on Israel appear to be
pride: his declaration of war hinges on wanting not to be a part of
David's Kingdom or the House of Jesse: defying God's Choice for Israel.)
To prevent Bichri from building 'fenced cities' and escape the armies
of David. (vs 20:6).
Strategies & Course
David gathers the Men of Judah under Amasa & Joab
David declares this uprising could be worse than Absalom's.
Amasa was told that within 3 days David wanted the Armies of Judah
assembled: Amasa 'tarries'. VS4-5
At Abel-Bethmaachah, they set up siege against the city, cast up a
bank against it, and "it stood in a trench". Israel begins to batter down
the wall. (verse 15)
A Woman at the Wall of Abel-Beth Maachah, pleads with Joab to spare
the City and only take Sheba: The City complies with Joab and throws
Sheba's head over the wall.
Location
First, near the Great Stone in Gibeon
Secondly at Abel of Beth-ma-a-chah
Encampment against the Wall of Abel-Beth-maachah
Intelligence
None directly: Sheba, son of Bichri is open and declarative about his
rebellion (10:17)
The "Mother in Israel" intervenes by giving away Sheba's
whereabouts
Outcome
Joab kills Amasa in betrayal
Joab and Abishai pursue after Sheba Son of Bichri
Embankment set against City of Abel-Bethmaachah vs.: 15 (see
"Strategies)
The people of Abel-Beth-Maachah cut off the head of Sheba and throw
it over the wall(vs 21)
Joab & Israelite Army retreats and returns to David(vs. 22)
Spoils
First spoil is defeat and death of Sheba, who rebelled against David
and caused great division in Israel (seeds of division would last)
Joab wins total command over Israelite Army, but does it through
betrayal and killing of Amasa, whom David favors. In this he also betrays
David's trust and shows a hidden disloyalty. (Same who in II Sam 19:5
rebukes David over mourning his son.)
Rebellion put down, peace for Israel, albeit temporal.
Spiritual Implications
This battle may be approached in many ways. The First is the
DIVISION which Sheba son of Bichri seeks to bring upon Israel. Many were
apparently dissatisfied with David's reign at this point: possible
reasons could include former loyalties to Saul (see first war of
Saul) or unhappiness with David's nepotism, sin, troubled family
life or other reasons. While the greater rebellion of Jeroboam is yet to
come in the reign of David's Grandson, Rehoboam, the seeds of division
are beginning to split Israel even here. It is notable in verse 2, here,
that there was an initial great following of Sheba who wanted (v1) "no
part in David" or "inheritance in Jesse". While Sheba in his worldliness
did not realize his declaration, he was rebelling against God's
anointed, and against his plan for Israel. It was the same as saying his
inheritance was not in the line of Israel's forthcoming Messiah, of whom
David and Jesse figure prominently in genealogy.
Joab is one of the "sons of Zeruiah" who are a continual thorn in
David's side: they are brutal, brash, and quick to violence. Apparently
here, Joab is also self-willed in the killing of Amasa, David's 'head of
the host'. While Amasa was not always loyal, (Absalom appointed him head
of the host against Joab and his father), he was David's appointed head
here. David decries Joab's murders and disloyalties in the end:
"Moreover thou knowest also what Joab the son of Zeruiah
did to me, and what he did to the two captains of the hosts of Israel,
unto Abner the son of Ner, and unto Amasa the son of Jether, whom he
slew, and shed the blood of war in peace, and put the blood of war
upon his girdle that was about his loins, and in his shoes that were
on his feet.
The notion here of justice in Israel is upheld even by the most
brutal and unjust of men: Joab. Joab is pursuing after one enemy, Sheba,
the divider in Israel. He does not wish to spoil the entire city of
Abel-BethMaachah that Sheba takes refuge in : he wants only his goal.
Thus, the city in wisdom, beheads the spoiler and throws the proof to
Joah who retreats: the City is of Israel.
Implications for Faith
David lived continually with the threat of the sons of Zeruiah, his cousins at his side. They were
a treacherous lot. In this war, Joab, one of the sons, kills another leader, Amasa, in his rebellious nature,
so that he can counter the rebellious Sheba, son of Bichri. Bichri threatened Israel terribly: the threat is
seen in the statement and cry of the rebels "we have no part in David". There were many when David came to office
who did not want David, a young God-chosen, God-anointed King: they were comfortable with their worldly leader, Saul,
tall handsome, mighty and full of his own will, the faux pas which would destroy him. No King lives without rebellion
somewhere in the Kingdom: even Solomon, who had the most peaceful reign in Israel encountered dissension and division
brewing in his own courts. The Implication for faith here is clear: God hates division, and it is a sin which is
rightly and quickly put out of a congregation or kingdom early, to avoid a fray which leads to a rip which leads to
the splitting or death of the group. This is not a heavy handed "my way or the highway" mentality which too many pastors
use to manipulate and control, but an admonition that division and dissension and threatened overthrow have no place
in the loving living network the Church, ikklesia is supposed to be. There is also an insight into the nature of the
cancer of rebellion and dissension: David, Joab and initially Amasa are all focused on putting an end to the uprising
and rebellion of Sheba, but the treachery begins early with the killing of Amasa out from under David, and the division
and rebellion of Joab coupled with his brutality, later proves to be more threatening than this rebel himself.
The "mother in Israel" who calls for the dissenter to be punished alone, rises up in wisdom to avert the death of hundreds
in the city. It is very much in line with God's premise of 'each man to his own sin', or chastising each according to his
own wrongdoing instead of punishing many, or children for sins of the fathers,[an early dealing], or one for the sins of another.
Only Christ had that role or could accomplish it. The rest ends in injustice.
Cross-references & Other Critical
Facts
Amasa was the son of Abigail and Jether, and was acording to rabbinical tradition the cousin of David like Joab.
Joab means "Jehovah is Father". Joab, one of the sons of Zeruiah from the beginning tries to run the Kingdom out from under David.
He begins by killing Amasa that he might completely control the Israeli army, but he tragically ends, killing Absalom the beloved
but rebellious son of David, against David's wishes, and then has the audacity to criticize David's mourning for his son.
David has God's heart, even towards the tragic Absalom trying to overthrow his father and divide his Kingdom, but David only sees
the joy of his heart who could not forgive his father the lackadaisical treatment of Ammon who raped Tamor. Division in the family
of David, results in the division of the Kingdom: no one can hurt a Father's power more than a rebellious son. Think of how
God both terribly loves us and terribly grieves our rebellion, knowing its high cost to us, others and His plan. We need all
to count our treachery to God much higher than we do.
Sheba means "seven" intimating a complete number also. The extent of the rebellion by Sheba is noted by his admonition "every man
to his own tents". This is a dangerous directive: it was a directive for each to defend and take for themselves what they thought
right in their own eyes, and the result could have been the destruction of Israel. Consider the day and the hour now, as many
in the business world and the Church charge that this strategy is the only thing to do: they tear apart households, the Church
and ministries. The Word of God stands as a righteous reign for a reason.
See I Chronicles 5:13
Leader: King Saul & sons: Eliab, the 1st born;
Abinadab, and Shammah.
David, son of the Ephrathite of Bethlehem-Judah, Jesse vs
12.
The Enemy's People & Leaders
King of the Philistines
"Goliath of Gath" described as a "Champion" : 6.5 cubits
tall vs 4
Object
The Object is described in verse 9: If Israel kills Goliath,
then the Philistines and him will serve Israel, if not Israel will be
servants to the Philistines. The Object for Israel is to defend
Israel and take the Philistines, keeping Israel safe.
David declares his objective in verse 45-40:
1) that the Lord delivers Goliath into his
hand
2) That the enemies of Israel be soundly defeated (here, the Philistines)
3) That "the earth may know that there is a God in Israel" I Sam
17:40
He also adds that the a ll-sufficiency of
God over worldly weapons is made manifest. With this, David
RUNS into battle. vs 48.
Strategies
Goliath, heavily armed, and of great stature (over 9ft tall) with
six digits on each hand, meant to terrify the
enemy: Descendant of the Anakim (see below)
Goliath comes out of the Philistine Camp singularly, and challenges
Saul's men with being less than he is (vs4,8) A Representative with a gauntlet.
The battle is a Challenge by Goliath to fight the war in microcosm: Goliath from the
Philistines, a man to be Chosen from Israel. Top counter the
threat, God uses a Child to overcome the Giant.
The Winner is to be the one-on-one warrior who overcomes.
The Challenge was made each morning and evening for 40 days.
War ensues between Israel and the Philistines in the Valley of Elah,
while waiting for the challenge to be met. vs19 (looks like none would
meet the challenge).
David is sent by Jesse to his brothers to care for their needs and
the needs of their leaders; the brothers challenge his intentions (vs
28), demeaning his purpose for being there. While there, David
hears the taunt and dare of Goliath. He is sent to Saul and is
questioned.
Saul doubts David, but David cites his history of 1) Caring for
Sheep and 2)fighting off predators.
David's Strategy, proposed to Saul (vs37) is to trust God for
Deliverance: he cites former aid.
Saul sends David to fight Goliath and blesses: vs37
Saul arms David with Armor & weapons; David refuses citing he
has not 'proved' them. 38
David Chooses "5 smooth stones and a sling"
David vs 40-42 draws near to the Philistines, Goliath comes to meet
him and disdains him for his youth: Goliath implores false gods
for a curse.
Goliath threatens to devour David vs 44
David vs 45, announces: 1) the insufficiency of worldly
weaponry/warfare and 2) the endorsement and aid of the God of
Hosts: He will fight the battle in the 'heavenlies'.
Running at Goliath, David draws a stone from a bag at his waist,
slings it at Goliath and Goliath falls dead, hit in the forehead.
David cut off the head of the giant. vs 49-51
Remnant of Philistines flee; wounded are pursued to gates of Ekron.
52
Location
Initially, Philistines at Shochoh in Judah between Shochoh and
Azekah in Ephesdammim vs 1
Saul & Israel: by the valley of Elah vs 2
Terrain is described as Israel on the Side of one Mountain,
Philistines on the side of another mountain, and a Valley stretched
between the mountains.
At end of the battle after Goliath is dead, the chasing of the
Philistines continues to the Gates of Ekron by the way to Shaaraim
to Gath and Ekron vs 52
Intelligence
No formal 'intelligence' was mentioned: The Challenge and
conditions were outright, but Jesse does send his son David to his older
brothers at war to
1)ask what they need and
2) supply the need of them and their leaders. vs 18
Outcome
Goliath is Killed
The Philistines flee
Peace for Israel
Support from the Army of Israel vs52
Spoils
The Safety and Peace of Israel
For
David:
King's enrichment, His daughter's hand in marriage and the establishment
of his Father's House vs 25
Spoil of the tents of the Philistines vs 53
Head of Goliath
Spiritual Implications
The Spiritual implications of this are many but are especially tied
up in David's objectives.
Israel was threatened constantly in history by the brutal
Philistines: they were descendants of those driven out by Joshua and
Moses. Described as physical Giants (Anakim) in early battles,
Goliath was a remnant who by earthly terms struck fear and terror:
they were the strongest and most powerful threat the world had to
offer. David on the other hand represents what man is really like
before God:
Implications for Faith
All battles are best fought in the heavenlies, i.e. by trust in God
and Prayer and obedience
The strongest battle and warrior in the flesh is no match for the
weakest servant of God.
Do not read benevolent motives falsely: we all do this. When
David came to help his brothers, his brothers mocked him saying he only
had the carnal desire of seeing the battle: he had actually risked his
life to supply their needs.
A false god's curse is no match for the true God's support and
blessing.
David kept his eyes on the Power and Truth of God and banked in
Faith on the History of God's dealing with Israel. He knew that
either God was with him and Israel or that there was no God of
Israel.
Cross-references & Other Critical Facts
IN Joshua 11:22 there is evidence that Goliath did indeed
descend from the Anakims. He had corollary attributes: great height,
mutated fingers and toes and war-like countenance. It reads, "There
was none of the Anakims left in the land of the children of Israel: only
in Gaza, in Gath, and in Ashdod, there remained." IN other words
while the Anakim were mostly driven out, there were remnants left in Gath
where Goliath descended from. Joshua's battles were around
1450 bc, and this battle is around 1063 bc about 387 years later:
there is no reason to believe the line was completely gone.
David and the Philistines: I Samuel 25-30
The Lord's People & Leaders
The Children of Israel; David
Leader: Saul, King of Israel
The Enemy's People & Leaders
People: The Philistines
No King's name mentioned
Object
King Saul requires an unusual dowry from David, which he probably
thinks impossible: 100 foreskins of the Philistines: a brutal act in
revenge against the King's enemies. His intent in verse 25 is made
clear: to make David a dead hero at the hands of the Philistines instead
of a living Son-in-Law. This is a further condition put on David
after the slaying of Goliath. Before David slew Goliath Saul had
promised the victor (I Samuel 17:25) his daughter, riches and the
establishment of the victor's family. This shows Saul's lack of
integrity and honor, prevailing throughout his reign.
Strategies
Without great strategy, David confronts the Philistines and slays
200, double the number required and brings back the required bounty.
Location
Not directly mentioned, but the 'covenant' of Saul takes place in the
Palace, where the first daughter, Merab has already been given and the
second, Michal is promised. It may be presumed that the place of the
Philistines where David took vengeance was in or near the same valley
where Goliath was slain: between Shochoh and Azekah.
Intelligence
None mentioned: the battle and terrain was outright.
Outcome
David Slays 200 Philistines, no Israeli losses mentioned., Returns
to Saul
The Philistines depart, leaving Israel to Peace
Spoils
Saul's Daughter Michal, who purports to love David, but afterwards
takes after her father, and despises David's joy in the Lord.
Saul became afraid of David. (His later Paranoia becomes
intense, probably at the power of God and the Anointing working through
David.)
As seen from forthcoming scripture, David's house, both that of
Jesse and of God becomes established. Saul loses his anointing as
King, David later becomes King and his wealth is established.
Spiritual Implications
David is a man of Covenant, Saul is not.
David is a man of honor, Saul is not.
David is selfless , laying his life on the line for his King without
complaining about the additional requirement of the hand of Saul's
daughter. This is an interesting juxtaposition, because later,
when David commits adultery with Bathsheba, Bathsheba's husband, Uriah
the Hittite, is the same kind of man of honor: one willing to die for
his King, David, whom David betrays for carnality as Saul has betrayed
him. There is also a parallel in the battle : David sends
Uriah to the forefront of battle, knowing he will be slain. The
only difference is Uriah really does meet his death, David was
spared.
Implications for Faith
A person of faith and anointing must hold to honor and covenant,
even if it seems unjust.
The things of God and the power of God, seen in another person are
often frightening, even to the powerful of the earth, and both in the
believer and unbeliever can cause even violent and hateful actions
towards them without cause, because the one in fear does not understand
the power or ways of God. (verse 29)
An anointed person, even like David who pointed to Messiah and wrote
the Psalms, through carnality, lack of watchfulness, pride and riches,
can eventually fall into the same degradation of sin that the weaker
character does. The difference lies in the grief and repentance
over the sin once committed.
There was a reward to David for the keeping of covenant with Saul,
even going 'the extra mile'. While Saul apparently did not want
this young hero in his household. with all Israel watching and with
David victorious over the Philistines, Saul had no choice but to give
him his reward.
Cross-references & Other Critical Facts
Similar vengeance without regard for safety by Saul in I Samuel
14:24
Saul later gives Michal to another in I Samuel 25:44, further proof
of a lack of character.
It appears from vs. 11 that the object is two-fold: to
1)rid the land of Israel from strongholds of ancient enemies (vs8)
&
2)to create a highway or path that leads South out of Judah down
toward Egypt that can be safely traveled.
This battle follows David being given Ziklag by the King of the
Philistines, Achish, as a land of his own. The lands taken
would have established him in Ziklag and given him safety from
opposition to his being there.
Strategies
Appears as an outright invasion of territory belonging to the
Amalekites, Gezrites and Geshurites.
"Smites" the Land, kills all inhabitants including women takes all
forms of cattle and apparel
Location
David dwells for a year and four months in the land of the
Philistines
"as thou goest to Shur, even unto the land of Egypt"
basically, in the South of Israel below Judah/Jerusalem going toward
Egypt. South of Ziklag.
Intelligence
No mention of covert activities.
Outcome
The enemies of David and Ancient enemies of Israel are purged from
the land
Amalekites, Gesurites, Gezrites are erased. Peace for Israel
and David while still among Philistines.
Kenites and Jerahmeelites subdued---this was in fulfillment of the
covenant of the Land in Genesis 15.
He actually gains the trust of Achish because Achish believes these
events coupled with his living in the land of the Philistines will make
Israel to abhor David. vs.12
Spoils
The Lands of the Peoples mentioned above.
The Apparel (garments) of the peoples mentioned above.
Safe Land for David to dwell in around Ziklag
A guarded, safe highway down from Jerusalem to Egypt through
formerly perilous parts.
Spiritual Implications
The main implication here is actually one of prophecy
fulfillment: God had as early as Genesis promised Israel dominion
over her enemies, including specific prophecies about the Amalekites,
Kenites and other Canaanites. He did also tell his people that
because of several errors, some of these people would be left in the
land as an affliction. Both of these are fulfilled in the time of
David.
Virtually centuries can pass between a prophecy and its
fulfillment.
Implications for Faith
Prophecy is often fulfilled in part in a generation so that that
generation might see the reality of God's Word, but it also almost
always has a later and more significant , more eternal and less temporal
fulfillment. Waiting on God can sometimes seem 'beyond belief',
but all fulfillments happen in His time and according to His
purposes. Utter Sovereignty.
The giving of the Land to David was because of Covenant, superceding
David being 'in the wrong place at the wrong time' , i.e. in the land of
the Philistines serving Achish, a terrible irony for this King who had
killed Goliath, the champion of the Philistines. Still, David was
the King of the Jews taking Jewish Land for the Jews: in perfect line
with the Abrahamic and other covenants, hence his success. We see
in our own lives that God sometimes defends, saves, and provides for HIS
name sake even when we are in disobedience because of His covenant with
us.
Cross-references & Other Critical Facts
Achish means: serpent-charmer: he is son of Maoch, king of Gath.
Ziklag was in Simeon's territory on the border of Judah. Shur is on
border of Egypt, and is where the Israelites went upon crossing the Red
Sea in Exodus 15:22, it is where Hagar escapes to with her son.
David appears to open up the highway again that the Children of Israel
traveled up from Egypt. (!)
NOTE: The War between David and Saul is difficult to set
bounds on in scripture: It begins with the first jealousies and placing
David in harm with the Philistines (I Samuel 25) and continues for some time, as
the households and advisors, take sides, change sides, commit treachery and
punish each other even with murders. The establishment of the new reign
begins in this passage.
The Lord's People & Leaders
The Children of Israel; David
The Enemy's People & Leaders
Leader: Saul, though still 'anointed' in the sense of an
appointment, is declared finished by Samuel because of
disobedience.
The Armies still loyal to Saul in Israel.
Object
The War between David and Saul was not desired or started by
David. David recognized Saul's anointed position as King, but Saul
was very jealous of David's more powerful anointing. This division
between Saul and David is seen from the beginning and is almost
exclusively Saul's problem. From the time David returns from
slaying Goliath, Saul tries to kill him, put him in danger or have him
killed. Jealously escalates the violence and eventually Saul
chases David with armies in the Israeli desert, forcing David into
hiding. The turning point comes in the passage of verse
3:1: "but David waxed stronger and stronger and the house of Saul waxed
weaker and weaker."
The main objective for David is self-protection and defense and
claiming rightful inheritance to the throne of Israel which God has
given him. Saul's carnal aim is to not let David take his
throne.
verse 10: "To translate the kingdom from the house of Saul, and to
set up the throne of David over Israel and over Judah from Dan even to
Beersheba."
Strategies
Strategies: David's is defense, and Saul's is outright aggression.
Abner first aligns with Saul; then goes in to one of his concubines,
for which he is rebuked by Ishbosheth. In II Samuel 3:12 he
implored David to stand with him.
Location
David went to HEBRON (verse 2):
Intelligence
Abner comes to David to create a liaison: David requires as a
condition of the liaison that Abner:
1)Return to the House of Saul and recover Michal, the wife he earned in
his battle with Goliath and the Philistines, even from the husband Saul
illegally gave her to, Phaltiel, son of Laish.
2)David had 'friends' in Saul' s household: Jonathan had been his
childhood friend, and Ishbosheth, also a son of Saul appears very
favorable toward David. Abner goes to Ishbosheth upon David's
instruction. Saul's house falls partly from within: this will
happen later in David's life, perhaps a reflection of his own
infidelity.
Outcome
David recovers Michal
Abner declares the deliverance of the Kingdom into David's hand in
fulfillment of the prophecy,
""By the hand of my servant David I will save my people Israel out
of the hand of the Philistines, and out of the hand of all their
enemies. (3:18)"
Abner returns to Hebron, but Joab declares that Abner is committing
conspiracy against David and is there to 'spy' on him and get knowledge
about 'thy going out and thy coming'
Abner is killed by Joab without David's knowledge (verse 27).
Abner had killed Joab's brother in II Samuel 2:21-24, in the same manner
Joab kills Abner: both Joab and Asahel were of the 'sons of
Zeruiah' whom David was always exasperated with because of their
instability and violence.
Spoils
David is officially seen as King although not yet totally
established;
Joab establishes himself as the head of David's and hence Israel's
army
Michal is returned to David
Spiritual Implications
Infidelity reaps infidelity, violence reaps violence, even centuries
later.
Israel at this point, built by Kings who though appointed and
anointed were men of personal infidelity in their marriages, have
households filled with treachery and enmity. This causes a rent in
the fabric of the cohesion of Israel and eventually leads to Israel's
division.
Vengeful and unfaithful people are not usually
trustworthy.
Implications for Faith
We seldom consider in our own lives the severe consequences of
treachery and betrayal. Both Saul's and David's households were
ripped and devastated by their own unfaithfulness, their alliances with
worldly resources and parties, and being mercenary in fulfilling their
own needs and defense. While Joab may have vengefully killed Abner
for the death of Asahel his brother, Joab's treachery and disloyalty
were easily equaled, and Joab while claiming loyalty to David goes on in
Israel's future to 'run his own show' , doing essentially what he wants
over what David wants. It results in the slaying of David's son
Absalom, and the sinister chutzpah of Joab, daring David to grieve over
it. Our small sins and betrayals come back in magnitude to
haunt us.
Cross-references & Other Critical Facts
A note: During the time of the war between David and Saul, most of
David's children are born. This includes Absalom, who will later
give David a great deal of trouble. Absalom's mother is the daughter
of the Talmai, the King of the Gesurites. This Union was not
perfect: the Gesurites had once inhabited the land given to
Manesseh's son, south of philistia. It had been in the territory of
Og of Bashan, a giant-king, conquered by Israel. Sometimes the
spiritual warrings that take place in a generation have roots tracing back
centuries. The liason with non-Israelites and other belief systems
brought down Israel, and was no small sin.
Children born to David in Hebron:
Amnon of Ahinoam, the Jezreelitess
Chileab of Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite (David was not
the most monogamous King)
Absalom the son of Maacah, daughter of Talmai King of Gesur (this
liason probably helped opened the road to Egypt through Philistia,
mentioned in the War of David and the Amalekites.
another 'man of great stature', said to be a son of the Giant. v20
Object
The Philistines war against David after the death of Saul and his
sons.
This final battle, while begun as an aggression by the Philistines who
were a constant trouble to David and Israel, ends with the defeat of the
philistines, this time represented by what appears to be Goliath's kin.
The Wars start and end with 'David and Goliath', although this battle
brings a plea for David to go no more to battle lest he 'quench...the
light of Israel' v17.
Strategies
David, "goes down" to where the battle is at Gob, a battle waiting
for him, just as his first encounter with Goliath.
The battle takes place in two parts (v18), giants are killed in
each.
Location
Gob
Intelligence
none mentioned
Outcome
The 4 sons of the 'Giant' are killed: including Ishbibenob,
and the 'brother ' of Goliath
Spoils
Peace for Israel
End of the Giants and Goliath's formidable kin (this second battle,
towards the end of David's life is a hallmark of the way David's life
played out---he was a 'finisher' of battles: he finishes many battles
with the Canaanites started centuries before, here he 'finishes' with
others the battle against the Philistines and the 'Giants' which has so
plagued Israel.
Spiritual Implications
The war is started not by Israel, but by the Philistines, as was
often the case. Because of their military might and terrifying
'giants' which appeared to be some real mutation of men of great height
(over 9 feet) and 6-digited hands and feet, they were horrifying to
their enemies. Giants (Anakim) are mentioned in Exodus and Joshua,
but most do not note that they appear still to be in existence among the
philistines and other Canaanitish people as late as 1000 b.c. at the
time of David, and they appear familial in their
description. They are not the 'giants of fairy tales, but a
race of people of great height, stature and mutated characteristics, but
in a time of great superstition and fear of the odd, they helped to
create fear.
Already mentioned, the 'Giants' that faced Israel, both at the
beginning of David's reign and the end are real, but are
represented by the individuals, Goliath, Ishbibenob, Saph and others as
well as being metaphor for the "giants' of national oppression and
threat, false worship, sin and other very real 'Giants' in Israel.
David's Kingship is represented by the overthrow of Giants which
threaten Israel. He is successful against these Giants, but the
toll is in his own life, where he is not.
A curious note is the plea with David by his men who "sware unto him
saying "Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou quench
not the light of Israel." David had killed his '10s of thousands,
and it was well portrayed in scripture that blood on one's hands, even
the blood of a righteous war, was still sin before God, and had to be
covered. It is the reason that David is told he will not
build a house for God but his son in his stead. This is
interesting because one would think the adultery with Bathsheba and the
harm of her husband Uriah would have been the bigger reason. IF it
were, Solomon would not have been the builder of the Temple either, for
he committed more adultery than his father did. The shedding of
blood was the point of a ministry ceasing. However, in lieu of the
'light' or lamp of Israel not going out, David's end ministry is that of
Psalms, also posing David as 'finisher': he begins as a shepherd,
a Shepherd-King, he ends as a Shepherd King, shepherding millions even
millennia after his death. God took even the chastisements
of David and turned them to the Glory of God.
Implications for Faith
The Giants of Israel as the giants in our own life are slain not by
military might, but by faith. Through sheer faith, David
would have killed Goliath, the brutal threat to Israel even without a
stone and sling. We meet the Giants in our own life in this
fashion: by faith. Our battles, as we have repeatedly mentioned
are in the heavenlies, we need to learn to 'war' without the letting of
blood: life is in God's hands. We do however need to learn to 'war'- by
prayer, faith, the word, the Armor of God, the walking in the Holy
Spirit: we are soldiers on a battle field.
This is a Romans 8:28 chapter: God uses all things to work
together for the Good of the Believer. The light and lamp of
Israel continues to shine, we either stand in the light or we walk in
darkness by our own choice. Whatever God has appointed for the
believer, will happen: if it happens in our obedience it brings
blessing, if it must occur without our cooperation, the effects can be
brutal, but once we have committed our way the Lord, it is HE who is the
author and finisher of our faith: HE will have his way in our life that
we committed to Him. David begins and ends as Shepherd
King. Where David disobeys in adultery and defiance, he suffers
immensely, but even then God is glorified in the birth of Solomon, the
wise King who succeeds David on the throne.
Following the Prayer of David praising God, asking Him to make
David's house eternal, and asking to build a House for the LORD. A
battle against the Philistines immediately follows, followed by this
more minor battle against the Moabites. Also mentioned in Chronicles,
briefly.
Location
follows a battle at Methegamah, which David takes from the
Philistines
Intelligence
none mentioned directly, but the 'Justice' of the war is mentioned as
he talks about "measured them [MOAB] with a line, casting them down
to the ground; even with two lines measured he to put to death and with
one full line to keep alive'---life and death of the Moabites is decided
by David
Outcome
David and the men of Israel decimate the Moabites, but some are kept
alive. They "became David's servants and brought gifts.
Spoils
Land
Servants
Gifts
Spiritual Implications
An interesting juxtaposition: David makes intercession to God
in Chapter 7, asking to build Him a house: he immediately turns
and sheds blood. While it is a righteous war, eventually David is
denied the building of the House.
This second war following the defeat of the Philistines at
Methegamah, is remarkable in the 'measuring line' which is
applied. Instead of brutal overthrow, there is a discerning
process and not all are killed. Little else is
mentioned.
Implications for Faith
When we ask God for a great spiritual endeavor, such as building a
'house' in His name, we need to make sure of the 'cleanness' of our
hands and heart---when we grieve the Holy Spirit with sin and
worldliness and the put our hands to the work of the Lord, it can become
not a gift but a serpent that 'bites back'. There is no such
things as 'means to an end' reasoning in the house of God: good may come
from evil in God's Mercy and sovereignty, but we are not to "sin
so that Grace may abound". Many Christians today use excuses
to do the Lord's work. (e.g. "I had to steal that persons work because
my Mission Board would look bad if I didn't"; "I had to lie, because if
I didn't it would cause division") The truth is God is big enough
to handle the outcome: we do not have to lie, cheat, steal, defame
etc for the Lord's work.
When we have to battle, even in the spirit, we have the
pattern of Israel's wars: for some, God commanded the Spoil to be
taken, for others, no spoil was to be touched. In some, all God's
enemies were to be 'wiped out' , in others, such as this, it is done in
measure and justice. Discernment as to which kind of battle and
what kind of obedience comes in Christ alone, and in prayer and
obedience.
Cross-references & Other Critical Facts
Moab, Gn 19 was a son of Lot, but the country of Moab was a fickle
neighbor of Israel. Ruth is a Moabitess who meets her Israelite
husband and mother-in-law here, later returning to Israel with Naomi after
the death of her husband. They are the town who in Judges 11 refused
Israel passage, and who joined to curse Israel (Numbers 22).
Throughout Israel's history, they were both friend and foe; there was a
lot of intermarriage with the Moabites. They are described as
wealthy, proud and superstitious, and in the end before the
captivity, Moab is admonished and severely punished for not
protecting Israel. Is 15
Leader: Hadadezer, Son of Rehob, King of Zobah vs.3
People of Zobah
Object
"To recover his border at the river Euphrates"
Strategies
David and Israel march immediately from the Battle with Moabites to
recover the border of Israel near the Euphrates River. The Euphrates
borders what is now Iraq and Jordan, but the far northern region once
called Zobah and Rehob on the Meditteranean Sea in the North apparently
controlled access to the region and to tributaries flowing into the
Euphrates, so basically, the far north border is being recovered
here.
Location
Far North in Israel, from the Coast in the region of Zobah to the
border of what is now Jordan and Iraq.
Intelligence
none directly mentioned.
Outcome
David 'smites' the son of the King of Zobah and his men
Recovers the north border
Takes Spoil including 100 Chariot Horses
Spoils
1000 Chariots
700 Horsemen
20,000 Footmen
100 Chariot Horses (the rest were 'houghed' or ruined by cutting
muscles and tendons in the leg)
Spiritual Implications
This is not an extensive battle. The only implication here
would be the discernment in the Spoil, and
the recovering of a border set since the beginning of time:
This was land given to Israel in the beginning and it also encompasses
the reported location of Paradise, the Garden of Eden. The
Euphrates is one of the 4 Rivers which is still called by the same name
today, although it is not clear if its location and path are exactly the
same.
David established his borders: Moab to the East, Zobah to the North,
Philistia to the South. West was the Mediterranean which was a
geographical barrier in a day when the Sea was not a foremost place of
battle.
Implications for Faith
Before Israel could be firmly rooted in the House and Kingdom of
David, David made sure he had control over the borders or points of
access whereby Israel could be taken down by enemies. It is
reasonable to apply this personally in the believer's walk or to a
Church's life, to establish boundaries of doctrine, friendships
and alliances and 'like-mindness'.
While Paradise is hidden from the World's eyes, with no return until
God' timing and Christ's conquer, the location of this earthly
Canaan yet to also give birth or represent the New Jerusalem is
remarkable. Remarkable because it has existed so for 5000 years
and the world cannot see.
Cross-references & Other Critical Facts
Zobah was north towards Syria. Rehob sits directly on the
Sea. The Northern border was critical: it was through
the northern border and regions around that Assyria gained access to
Israel and the 10 tribes to the North, and Babylon eventually came
crushing down. Israel was still a unified kingdom here: as
long as Israel under David was unified, its borders were established and
Israel stayed safe. As soon as it divided, within a generation
(of Rehoboam and Jeroboam) ; it was taken by brutal masters.
Toi, King of Hamath after David defeats Hadadezer, sends to bless
him
Joab: son of Zeruiah: Captain of the Host
Jehoshaphat, son of Ahilud:recorder
Zadok, son of Ahitub, Ahimelech, son of Abiathar priests
Seraiah: Scribe
Benaiah so of Jehoiada reigned over Pelethites and
Che-e-thites
David's Sons: Chief Rulers vs. 16-18
The Enemy's People & Leaders
People: Syrians of Damascus, on the side of Zobah (see previous
battle)
Leader: King of Syria, and a little later
Object
The Syrian Army comes to fortify the Army of Zobah, which David has
already defeated. v 5 David turns to defeat the Syrians.
Strategies
Frontal battle
David sets garrisons in Syria of Damascus
After David defeats the Syrians, King Toi sends son Joram to David to
appease and bless, because Hadadezer had been an enemy of Toi.
Location
IN the region of Zobah, again the northern -most and even
above northern-most parts of modern Israel: David is recovering the
Euphrates River border (See War against Zobah, above)
Described as 'from Betah and from Berothai, the cities of Hadadezer
in the 'Valley of Salt' vs13.
Intelligence
None specifically mentioned: this battle is corollary
to the battle of Zobah.
Outcome
22,000 Syrians killed by the Israeli Army
in the valley of Salt 18,000 men are killed vs. 13
Syrians become servants
Syrians bring gifts
Garrisons are set
Shields of Gold from the servants of Hadadezer vs. 7-taken to
Jerusalem
'exceeding much brass'
David dedicates the gold, silver and brass from conquered nations to
the LORD. vs. 11
Spoils
22,000 Syrians killed by the Israeli Army
Syrians become servants
Syrians bring gifts
Garrisons are set
Shields of Gold from the servants of Hadadezer vs. 7-taken to
Jerusalem
'exceeding much brass'
Joram, son of Toi brings vessels of silver, gold, and brass to appease
David.
Spiritual Implications
The War was an all out attack on Israel: it was not a question
of whether David should go out to war, it was a question of
self-defense, as one enemy army comes to help another. God always gave
Israel victory in self-defense.
"the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went." vs.6
The Spoil of War was not kept for personal gain, but dedicated to
the HOUSE of the LORD, in David's gratitude towards God and redemption
of the spoil, or purifying of the spoil bought by warfare.
Implications for Faith
The Self Defense of Israel or the Church is rewarded and endorsed by
God (especially when 'righteous')
The utter preservation of David and the Armies of Israel is noted, in
line with the Covenant of the Land: David was not being
imperialistic here: He was rightly taking back what belonged to Israel
in the Covenant which God had made with Abraham. The borders David
was establishing were ordained, the people in the land were there
wrongfully. Whether it is a popular view or not, when God
ordains a thing such as a border, it will stand regardless of man's
sense of 'fairness'.
Anything gained by a battle, even a necessary or "holy' battle
still is gotten at the price of blood. Even when Moses in Numbers
was commanded by God himself to 'number' the people, the act itself was
still counted as sin in need of atonement, so God commanded him to make
the count, but to pay for it with an atoning shekel offering.
David likewise 'commits' the spoils of war here, silver, gold, brass and
the like to the House of God, to the Temple. David was sometimes a
rare mix of perfect, hardly seen obedience, and human foible, but here,
he did a perfect thing.
Cross-references & Other Critical
Facts
Garrisons are also set in Edom, and Edomites became David's
servants also.
Immediately following the birth of Solomon II Sam 12, Joab takes
the city of Rabbah
Strategies
Joab takes Rabbah, the 'city of Waters' and in vs. 28, admonishes
David to bring Israel up to encamp around the City and take the final
victory. (Joab says, 'unless it be called by my name).
He gives David the Victory
Location
The Royal City of Rabbah, the head City of the Ammonites
Intelligence
Only that of Joab admonishing David to encompass the city
Outcome
Joab and David take the City. The King of Rabbah's crown is taken
off his head by Joab and placed upon King David's Head
Spoils
Notes that the spoil was brought forth in 'Great Abundance
The Crown vs. 30 which weighted a talent of gold with precious stones
31: Joab brings forth the people and puts them under hard labor making
them "pass through the brickiln"
Spiritual Implications
Joab, even with all his treachery, gives his King the glory for the
taking of the City. This follows the repentance of David for the
affair with Bathsheba, the death of the first son and the subsequent
birth of Solomon. So while David's life is less than perfect on
a personal level, as King of Israel, for God's name sake, he is given
victory.
The Kingship of a City with false worship is put on a Jewish head of
true worship
Implications for Faith
After true heart repentance and restitution, comes victory and
blessing, even after a season of devastation.
Loyalty to God's correct order, even when it may not seem fair, brings
a mighty victory: Joab actually won the war, but gave glory to the
"King of Israel". This is the path of our actions: our
efforts even at taking kingdoms, will be laid at the feet of Jesus, the
King of Israel.
Cross-references & Other Critical Facts
Ammon-Rabbah was the royal city of Ammon where Og abode. (Deut 3:11. It is one of the few
battles where Israel enslaved those the captured: this was rare for Israel who had been under bondage.
Jeremiah 49:2-3 tells of the desolation and end of Rabbah. the name means 'great'. OB
Absalom, dissatisfied with his father's David ways, had gathered troops and advisors to himself and turned
against David and what remained of Israel. David was forced to subdue the uprising against David's reign, although
he commanded his leaders to "Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom". This later became
a point of contention between David and Joab, and Joab directly disobeyed.
Strategies
Unlike many other battles during David's reign, in this in verse 3-4 he is cautioned not to go out with the Army but
to stay at the walls.
Battle fought directly, in a civil war, Israel with David against Israel with Absalom
Absalom's long hair causes him to get stuck in a tree: Joab, informed comes back to kill him, and stabs him.
Location
IN the wood of Ephraim vs6
Intelligence
None directly mentioned in this passage, but in 17:21-24, the betrayal of Ahithophel is mentioned. Ahithophel had been
David's trusted advisor for many years. But a careful search shows that Ahithophel was Bathsheba's grandfather (see genealogies in
Chronicles and references to Ahithophel). He had seen David destroy Bathsheba's loyal husband over an affair, and he had reason for
bitterness. His betrayal is reported to David by Absalom's servants (17:20-21)
Absalom's whereabouts are reported to Joab, after the battle. Absalom's hair gets caught in a tree , causing him to dangle
"between heaven and earth" (vs.9). The messenger, on David's side, would not kill him because of the King's orders before the army
left for battle. Joab has no qualms.
Outcome
20,000 Men of Israel slain by David's men in this bloody civil war: more by the terrain/woods than by the sword.
Absalom's death by Joab with 3 darts to the heart: 10 men of the army finish the death. Deceit to the King regarding the circumstances.
Ahithophel sets his house in order and hangs himself when he learns his orders are not followed: 11 Sam 17:23.
23.
Cushi is sent to the King to tell him of Absalom's Death, by Joab. vs.21 Ahimaaz runs to accompany vs.23
Spoils
Peace, and the end to the Civil War
Safety for the rest of David's family
Spiritual Implications
The concern of a father for a Son and the concern for the Nation are both at issue here. The concern for the nation
and many for David had to take precedent over his concern for his son who had become his adversary.
Victory was nothing in David's eyes as he learned of his Son's death
Betrayal begets betrayal: Joab is outwardly loyal only; Ahithophel was utterly loyal until David betrayed his family.
these betrayals literally ruined the rest of David's life.
Implications for Faith
There come times in the Christian or Jew's life that are utterly extreme and without mercy: when one must
decide between what is right in the sight of God and what is right for our families, or sometimes vice versa,
a decision in favor of our families means others must suffer. For David, he could not be King of Israel and carry out
his calling without betraying his son. His son had already betrayed him, but in the kind of love brought about by the Holy
Spirit (in this case with David in the shadowing of Christ) David did the right thing but could not get past his love
for his son. This is agape love when mercy becomes a severe decision. His anguish is reflected when he cries, "Absalom,
Absalom, would that I had died instead of you"---he would have taken the place in judgment, as did Messiah, of a son
who sinned against him, rather than let the son suffer.
David's sin with Bathsheba figures in to this battle although it is not mentioned. When David sinned in the taking of Bathsheba,
the crime was so significant in God's eyes, that it's consequence, while not knocking David off the throne, ruinously colored the
rest of his life. David betrayed first, Uriah, his loyal servant, causing him to be killed in battle after committing adultery against
him. He betrayed Bathsheba making her a widow who would give birth to a child who would die. He betrayed Ahithophel, his
trusted and loyal and wise advisor, all this just for the sake of carnal pleasure for a short season. The end is tremendous: he
is humiliated before all Israel when Nathan reveals the crime, he weeps in repentance too late for the son that dies, he lives
with Bathsheba till the end of his kingdom, but the relationship appears austere and controlling. The betrayal of Ahithophel
almost brought David's Kingdom and House down: if David had not been forewarned, and obeyed the purposely bad advice,
he might have lost the war against Absalom. In the end, the Great King does not go out to war; and while he shepherds Israel
though his Psalms, his own suffering and downfall plague him to the end. We need to be reminded of the value of loyalty and
of never betraying someone who trusts us.
Cross-references & Other Critical Facts
Absalom means 'the father of peace'. Absalom was at odds with his father since Tamar, his sister was raped by Amnon and his father
did little to intervene. The division grew as Absalom 2 Samuel 13:29 commands his servants to slay Amnon. They are never at peace again,
and Absalom's threat grows to almost destroy the unity of Israel, the seeds of which succeed years later in the reign of Rehoboam.
1Notes and Research by E. Best footnotes and
references available upon request. noteTopical Index, The Open
Bible, King James Version
note: Bible text and study tools:
Crosswalk.com, Blueletterbible.com
enemy: Descendant of the Anakim (see below)
fulfilling their
own needs and defense. While Joab may have vengefully killed Abner
for the death of Asahel his brother, Joab's treachery and disloyalty
were easily equaled, and Joab while claiming loyalty to David goes on in
Israel's future to 'run his own show' , doing essentially what he wants
over what David wants. It results in the slaying of David's son
Absalom, and the sinister chutzpah of Joab, daring David to grieve over
it. Our small sins and betrayals come back in magnitude to
haunt us. 
Absalom, would that I had died instead of you"---he would have taken the place in judgment, as did Messiah, of a son
who sinned against him, rather than let the son suffer.
