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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Samuel 20:23 Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites;</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_samuel/20-23.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/10_2Sa_20_23.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Samuel 20:23 - Sheba's Rebellion" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites;" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_samuel/20-23.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_samuel/20-23.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_samuel/">2 Samuel</a> > <a href="/2_samuel/20.htm">Chapter 20</a> > Verse 23</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad3.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_samuel/20-22.htm" title="2 Samuel 20:22">◄</a> 2 Samuel 20:23 <a href="/2_samuel/20-24.htm" title="2 Samuel 20:24">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/20.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/2_samuel/20.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Joab was over Israel&#8217s entire army; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Kerethites and Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_samuel/20.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Now Joab was the commander of the army of Israel. Benaiah son of Jehoiada was captain of the king’s bodyguard.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_samuel/20.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Now Joab was in command of all the army of Israel; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was in command of the Cherethites and the Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/20.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_samuel/20.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Now Joab <i>was</i> over all the host of Israel: and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada <i>was</i> over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_samuel/20.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />And Joab <i>was</i> over all the army of Israel; Benaiah the son of Jehoiada <i>was</i> over the Cherethites and the Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_samuel/20.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Now Joab was <i>in command</i> of the entire army of Israel, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/20.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_samuel/20.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_samuel/20.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Now Joab <i>was</i> over the whole army of Israel, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada <i>was</i> over the Cherethites and the Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_samuel/20.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Now Joab was [commander] over the entire army of Israel; Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was [commander] over the Cherethites and Pelethites [the king’s bodyguards];<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_samuel/20.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Joab commanded the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_samuel/20.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Joab commanded the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites; <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_samuel/20.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Now Joab was over all the host of Israel; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_samuel/20.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Joab was the commander of Israel's entire army. Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was in command of David's bodyguard. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_samuel/20.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Now Joab was over all the host of Israel: and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_samuel/20.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Now, Joab was put in charge of Israel's whole army. Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, was in charge of the Cherethites and Pelethites.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_samuel/20.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Joab was in command of the army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was in charge of David's bodyguards; <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_samuel/20.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Joab commanded the entire army of Israel, Jehoiada's son Benaiah commanded the special forces and mercenaries,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_samuel/20.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_samuel/20.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Now Joab was the general in command of all the army of Israel. Benaiah the son of Jehoida was over the Kerethites and the Perethites.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_samuel/20.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Now Joab was in command of the entire army of Israel; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was in command of the Cherethites and in command of the Pelethites; <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_samuel/20.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Now Joab was over all the host of Israel: and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_samuel/20.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Now Joab was over all the army of Israel, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites, <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_samuel/20.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />And Joab [is] over all the host of Israel, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada [is] over the Cherethite, and over the Pelethite,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_samuel/20.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> And Joab is over all the host of Israel, and Benaiah son of Jehoiada is over the Cherethite, and over the Pelethite,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_samuel/20.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And Joab over all the army of Israel: and Benaiah, son of Jehoida, over the Cherethites, and over the Pelethites.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_samuel/20.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />So Joab was over all the army of Israel: and Banaias the son of Joiada was over the Cerethites and Phelethites, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_samuel/20.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Thus Joab was over the entire army of Israel. And Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, was over the Cerethites and Phelethites.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_samuel/20.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Joab was in command of the whole army of Israel. Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, was in command of the Cherethites and Pelethites.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_samuel/20.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Now Joab was in command of all the army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was in command of the Cherethites and the Pelethites;<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_samuel/20.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Now Joab was in command of all the army of Israel; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was in command of the freedmen and the laborers,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/2_samuel/20.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />And Yuab was over all the army of Israel, and Benaya son of Yuyada was over the Free men and over the Laborers<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/2_samuel/20.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Now Joab was over all the host of Israel; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/2_samuel/20.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />And Joab <i>was</i> over all the forces of Israel: and Banaias the son of Jodae <i>was</i> over the Cherethites and over the Phelethites.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_samuel/20-23.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_0ajZHUzMKw?start=6348" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/20.htm">Sheba's Rebellion</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">22</span>Then the woman went to all the people with her wise counsel, and they cut off the head of Sheba son of Bichri and threw it to Joab. So he blew the ram’s horn and his men dispersed from the city, each to his own home. And Joab returned to the king in Jerusalem. <span class="reftext">23</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3097.htm" title="3097: wə·yō·w·’āḇ (Conj-w:: N-proper-ms) -- The LORD is father, three Isr. From Yhovah and 'ab; Jehovah-fathered; Joab, the name of three Israelites.">Now Joab</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">was over</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: kāl- (N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">the whole</a> <a href="/hebrew/6635.htm" title="6635: haṣ·ṣā·ḇā (Art:: N-cs) -- Or tsbadah; from tsaba'; a mass of persons, especially reg. Organized for war; by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively.">army</a> <a href="/hebrew/3478.htm" title="3478: yiś·rā·’êl (N-proper-ms) -- From sarah and 'el; he will rule as God; Jisrael, a symbolical name of Jacob; also of his posterity.">of Israel;</a> <a href="/hebrew/1141.htm" title="1141: ū·ḇə·nā·yāh (Conj-w:: N-proper-ms) -- Or Bnayahuw; from banah and Yahh; Jah has built; Benajah, the name of twelve Israelites.">Benaiah</a> <a href="/hebrew/1121.htm" title="1121: ben- (N-msc) -- Son. From banah; a son, in the widest sense (like 'ab, 'ach, etc.).">son</a> <a href="/hebrew/3077.htm" title="3077: yə·hō·w·yā·ḏā‘ (N-proper-ms) -- The LORD knows, the name of several Isr. From Yhovah and yada'; Jehovah-known; Jehojada, the name of three Israelites.">of Jehoiada</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">was over</a> <a href="/hebrew/3746.htm" title="3746: hak·kə·rī (Art:: N-proper-ms) -- Bodyguard of Jehoash. Perhaps an abridged plural of kar in the sense of leader; a life-guardsman.">the Cherethites</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: wə·‘al- (Conj-w:: Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">and</a> <a href="/hebrew/6432.htm" title="6432: hap·pə·lê·ṯî (Art:: N-proper-ms) -- Some of David's soldiers. From the same form as Peleth; a courier or official messenger.">Pelethites;</a> </span><span class="reftext">24</span>Adoram was in charge of the forced labor; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder;…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/18-15.htm">1 Chronicles 18:15-17</a></span><br />Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder; / Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were priests; Shavsha was the scribe; / Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites; and David’s sons were chief officials at the king’s side.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_samuel/8-15.htm">2 Samuel 8:15-18</a></span><br />Thus David reigned over all Israel and administered justice and righteousness for all his people: / Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder; / Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were priests; Seraiah was the scribe; ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/4-4.htm">1 Kings 4:4</a></span><br />Benaiah son of Jehoiada was in charge of the army; Zadok and Abiathar were priests;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/11-6.htm">1 Chronicles 11:6</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/27-34.htm">1 Chronicles 27:34</a></span><br />Ahithophel was succeeded by Jehoiada son of Benaiah, then by Abiathar. Joab was the commander of the king’s army.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/2-35.htm">1 Kings 2:35</a></span><br />And the king appointed Benaiah son of Jehoiada in Joab’s place over the army, and he appointed Zadok the priest in Abiathar’s place.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/27-5.htm">1 Chronicles 27:5-6</a></span><br />The third army commander, as chief for the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest. There were 24,000 men in his division. / This Benaiah was mighty among the Thirty and was over the Thirty, and his son Ammizabad was in charge of his division.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/11-20.htm">1 Chronicles 11:20-21</a></span><br />Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. / He was doubly honored above the Three, and he became their commander, even though he was not included among the Three.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/12-18.htm">1 Chronicles 12:18</a></span><br />Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, the chief of the Thirty, and he said: “We are yours, O David! We are with you, O son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, and peace to your helpers, for your God helps you.” So David received them and made them leaders of his troops.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/27-1.htm">1 Chronicles 27:1-15</a></span><br />This is the list of the Israelites—the heads of families, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and their officers who served the king in every matter concerning the divisions on rotating military duty each month throughout the year. There were 24,000 men in each division: / Jashobeam son of Zabdiel was in charge of the first division, which was assigned the first month. There were 24,000 men in his division. / He was a descendant of Perez and chief of all the army commanders for the first month. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/27-22.htm">1 Chronicles 27:22</a></span><br />and over Dan was Azarel son of Jeroham. These were the leaders of the tribes of Israel.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/27-24.htm">1 Chronicles 27:24</a></span><br />Joab son of Zeruiah began to count the men but did not finish. For because of this census wrath came upon Israel, and the number was not entered in the Book of the Chronicles of King David.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/27-25.htm">1 Chronicles 27:25-31</a></span><br />Azmaveth son of Adiel was in charge of the royal storehouses. Jonathan son of Uzziah was in charge of the storehouses in the country, in the cities, in the villages, and in the fortresses. / Ezri son of Chelub was in charge of the workers in the fields who tilled the soil. / Shimei the Ramathite was in charge of the vineyards. Zabdi the Shiphmite was in charge of the produce of the vineyards for the wine vats. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/27-32.htm">1 Chronicles 27:32-34</a></span><br />David’s uncle Jonathan was a counselor; he was a man of insight and a scribe. Jehiel son of Hachmoni attended to the sons of the king. / Ahithophel was the king’s counselor. Hushai the Archite was the king’s friend. / Ahithophel was succeeded by Jehoiada son of Benaiah, then by Abiathar. Joab was the commander of the king’s army.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/18-14.htm">1 Chronicles 18:14</a></span><br />Thus David reigned over all Israel and administered justice and righteousness for all his people:</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Now Joab was over all the host of Israel: and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites:</p><p class="hdg">Now Joab</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/8-16.htm">2 Samuel 8:16-18</a></b></br> And Joab the son of Zeruiah <i>was</i> over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud <i>was</i> recorder; … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_chronicles/18-15.htm">1 Chronicles 18:15-17</a></b></br> And Joab the son of Zeruiah <i>was</i> over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud, recorder… </p><p class="hdg">and Benaiah</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/20-7.htm">2 Samuel 20:7</a></b></br> 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.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_samuel/19-13.htm">Army</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-18.htm">Benaiah</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-18.htm">Benai'ah</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-7.htm">Cherethite</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-7.htm">Cherethites</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-7.htm">Cher'ethites</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-7.htm">Command</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-14.htm">Entire</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-22.htm">Head</a> <a href="/2_samuel/19-13.htm">Host</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-19.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-12.htm">Israel's</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-18.htm">Jehoiada</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-18.htm">Jehoi'ada</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-22.htm">Joab</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-20.htm">Jo'ab</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-7.htm">Kerethites</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-7.htm">Pelethite</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-7.htm">Pelethites</a> <a href="/2_samuel/20-7.htm">Pel'ethites</a> <a href="/2_samuel/19-30.htm">Whole</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_samuel/23-16.htm">Army</a> <a href="/2_samuel/23-20.htm">Benaiah</a> <a href="/2_samuel/23-21.htm">Benai'ah</a> <a href="/1_kings/1-44.htm">Cherethite</a> <a href="/1_kings/1-38.htm">Cherethites</a> <a href="/1_kings/1-38.htm">Cher'ethites</a> <a href="/1_kings/2-43.htm">Command</a> <a href="/2_samuel/24-8.htm">Entire</a> <a href="/2_samuel/22-44.htm">Head</a> <a href="/2_samuel/23-16.htm">Host</a> <a href="/2_samuel/21-2.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/2_samuel/23-1.htm">Israel's</a> <a href="/2_samuel/23-20.htm">Jehoiada</a> <a href="/2_samuel/23-22.htm">Jehoi'ada</a> <a href="/2_samuel/23-18.htm">Joab</a> <a href="/2_samuel/23-18.htm">Jo'ab</a> <a href="/1_kings/1-44.htm">Kerethites</a> <a href="/1_kings/1-44.htm">Pelethite</a> <a href="/1_kings/1-38.htm">Pelethites</a> <a href="/1_kings/1-38.htm">Pel'ethites</a> <a href="/2_samuel/24-8.htm">Whole</a><div class="vheading2">2 Samuel 20</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/20-1.htm">By occasion of the quarrel, Sheba rebels in Israel</a></span><br><span class="reftext">3. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/20-3.htm">David's ten concubines are put in confinement for life</a></span><br><span class="reftext">4. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/20-4.htm">Amasa, made captain over Judah, is slain by Joab</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/20-14.htm">Joab pursues Sheba to Abel</a></span><br><span class="reftext">16. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/20-16.htm">A wise woman saves the city by Sheba's head</a></span><br><span class="reftext">23. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/20-23.htm">David's officers</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/20.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_samuel/20.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel;</b><br>Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was a prominent military leader during King David's reign. His position as commander of the entire army of Israel highlights his significant influence and authority. Joab's leadership is marked by both loyalty and ruthlessness, as seen in his actions throughout 2 Samuel. His role is crucial in maintaining the stability of David's kingdom, especially during times of internal strife and rebellion. Joab's military prowess is evident in his successful campaigns and strategic acumen. His complex character is further explored in his interactions with David, Absalom, and other key figures, reflecting the challenges of leadership in a turbulent period of Israel's history.<p><b>Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites;</b><br>Benaiah, a valiant warrior and loyal supporter of David, is noted for his bravery and leadership. As the son of Jehoiada, he comes from a priestly lineage, which may have contributed to his sense of duty and honor. Benaiah's command over the Cherethites and Pelethites, who served as David's personal bodyguards, underscores his trusted position within the king's inner circle. These groups, possibly of foreign origin, were elite troops known for their loyalty and effectiveness. Benaiah's later role as commander of the army under Solomon further attests to his enduring legacy and the respect he garnered throughout his life. His story is a testament to the importance of faithfulness and courage in service to God's anointed king.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/j/joab.htm">Joab</a></b><br>The commander of the entire army of Israel. Joab was a skilled military leader and a nephew of King David. His leadership was marked by both loyalty and ruthlessness.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/b/benaiah_son_of_jehoiada.htm">Benaiah son of Jehoiada</a></b><br>A valiant warrior and leader, Benaiah was in charge of the Cherethites and Pelethites, who were elite mercenary forces serving King David. Benaiah was known for his bravery and loyalty to David.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/c/cherethites_and_pelethites.htm">Cherethites and Pelethites</a></b><br>These were groups of foreign mercenaries who served as part of King David's personal guard. They were known for their loyalty and effectiveness in battle.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/i/israel.htm">Israel</a></b><br>The nation over which King David reigned. This period in Israel's history was marked by internal strife and consolidation of power under David's leadership.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/d/david's_reign.htm">David's Reign</a></b><br>The context of this verse is during the reign of King David, a time of both military conquest and internal challenges, including rebellions and political intrigue.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/l/leadership_and_responsibility.htm">Leadership and Responsibility</a></b><br>Joab's position as commander of the army underscores the importance of leadership in maintaining national security and stability. Effective leadership requires both strategic insight and moral integrity.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/l/loyalty_and_service.htm">Loyalty and Service</a></b><br>Benaiah's role over the Cherethites and Pelethites highlights the value of loyalty and dedicated service. In our lives, we are called to serve faithfully in the roles God has placed us.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/god's_sovereignty_in_leadership.htm">God's Sovereignty in Leadership</a></b><br>The appointment of leaders like Joab and Benaiah reflects God's sovereignty in establishing authority. We should trust God's plan and pray for our leaders.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_the_faithful_remnant.htm">The Role of the Faithful Remnant</a></b><br>The Cherethites and Pelethites, though foreign, were integral to David's reign. This reminds us that God often uses unexpected people to fulfill His purposes.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_military_and_spiritual_readiness.htm">The Importance of Military and Spiritual Readiness</a></b><br>Just as David's kingdom required a strong military, we need to be spiritually prepared to face challenges in our lives.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_samuel_20.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 20</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_was_paul's_age_at_death.htm">Who was Benaiah in the Bible?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_essentialism.htm">Who were the Cherethites in the Bible?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_were_the_cherethites_in_the_bible.htm">Who were the Cherethites in the Bible?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_was_benaiah_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Benaiah in the Bible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_samuel/20.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 23.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Now Josh,</span> etc. With this list of his chief officers, the narrator closes the history of David's reign; for the remaining four chapters form a kind of appendix. A similar list closes ch. 8, where, too, there is a break in the history, the previous narra-tire having been a summary of the rapid rise of David's empire. In this section, ch. 9-20, we have a more full and detailed account of David's wars, leading on to his crime and its punishment. The rest of David's life we may trust was calm and uneventful, but it was the life of a sorrow stricken man; and the sword again woke up against his family when his end was approaching, and filled his dying hours with grief and trouble. This list is much later in date than that previously given, though most of the officers are the same. Cherethites. This is a correction of the Massorites to make the passage agree with <a href="/2_samuel/8-18.htm">2 Samuel 8:18</a>. The K'tib has <span class="accented">cari</span>, a word which occurs in <a href="/2_kings/11-4.htm">2 Kings 11:4, 19</a>, where in the Authorized Version it is translated "captains," but in the Revised Version <span class="accented">Carites</span>, which here appears only in the margin. But there is no reason why the place of the Cherethites should not have been taken by Carian mercenaries later on in David's reign, though really we know too little about such matters to be able to form a judgment. Some commentators translate <span class="accented">cari</span> "digger," and suppose that it means executioner; but why a digger should have such a meaning is inexplicable. It may be interesting to add that the Caftans were famous in old times as mercenaries. During the reign of Manasseh, Psammetichus won the throne of all Egypt by the aid of Caftans, and from that period they took a leading part in all Egyptian wars. The age of David is much more antique, but as there was constant communication between Phoenicia and Asia Minor and Greece, there is nothing improbable in David taking Caftans into his service in place of the Philistine Cherethites. His connection with them would soon cease after he left Ziklag. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_samuel/20-23.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Now Joab</span><br /><span class="heb">וְיוֹאָ֕ב</span> <span class="translit">(wə·yō·w·’āḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3097.htm">Strong's 3097: </a> </span><span class="str2">Joab -- 'the LORD is father', three Israelites</span><br /><br /><span class="word">was over</span><br /><span class="heb">אֶ֥ל</span> <span class="translit">(’el)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> </span><span class="str2">Near, with, among, to</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the whole</span><br /><span class="heb">כָּל־</span> <span class="translit">(kāl-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> </span><span class="str2">The whole, all, any, every</span><br /><br /><span class="word">army</span><br /><span class="heb">הַצָּבָ֖א</span> <span class="translit">(haṣ·ṣā·ḇā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6635.htm">Strong's 6635: </a> </span><span class="str2">A mass of persons, reg, organized for, war, a campaign</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of Israel;</span><br /><span class="heb">יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל</span> <span class="translit">(yiś·rā·’êl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3478.htm">Strong's 3478: </a> </span><span class="str2">Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Benaiah</span><br /><span class="heb">וּבְנָיָה֙</span> <span class="translit">(ū·ḇə·nā·yāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1141.htm">Strong's 1141: </a> </span><span class="str2">Benaiah -- 'Yah has built up', the name of several Israelites</span><br /><br /><span class="word">son</span><br /><span class="heb">בֶּן־</span> <span class="translit">(ben-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1121.htm">Strong's 1121: </a> </span><span class="str2">A son</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of Jehoiada</span><br /><span class="heb">יְה֣וֹיָדָ֔ע</span> <span class="translit">(yə·hō·w·yā·ḏā‘)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3077.htm">Strong's 3077: </a> </span><span class="str2">Jehoiada -- 'the LORD knows', the name of several Israelites</span><br /><br /><span class="word">was over</span><br /><span class="heb">עַל־</span> <span class="translit">(‘al-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> </span><span class="str2">Above, over, upon, against</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the Cherethites</span><br /><span class="heb">הַכְּרֵתִ֖י</span> <span class="translit">(hak·kə·rê·ṯî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3746.htm">Strong's 3746: </a> </span><span class="str2">Bodyguard of Jehoash</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and</span><br /><span class="heb">וְעַל־</span> <span class="translit">(wə·‘al-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> </span><span class="str2">Above, over, upon, against</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Pelethites;</span><br /><span class="heb">הַפְּלֵתִֽי׃</span> <span class="translit">(hap·pə·lê·ṯî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6432.htm">Strong's 6432: </a> </span><span class="str2">A courier, official messenger</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_samuel/20-23.htm">2 Samuel 20:23 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_samuel/20-23.htm">OT History: 2 Samuel 20:23 Now Joab was over all the army (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_samuel/20-22.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Samuel 20:22"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 20:22" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_samuel/20-24.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Samuel 20:24"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 20:24" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>