Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
JOAB
The commander of David's army. He first caught David's attention when he distinguished himself in a battle against the Jebusites culminating in the capture of Jerusalem (I Chronicles 11:6). He proved to be a capable leader but bloodthirsty. He murdered Abner, a Northern Kingdom general, which shocked David into giving Abner a soldier's funeral and ovation (II Samuel 3:26-34). Joab also won great victories against the Syrians and the Ammonites. He tried to keep peace between David and his rebellious son Absalom (II Samuel 18:14). On another occasion he brought about the death of Uriah at David's request in order to facilitate the king's marriage to the widow Bath-Sheba (II Samuel 11:6-25). Joab made a fatal decision in supporting Adonijah against Solomon. When the latter gained the throne, he had Joab executed (I Kings 2:34).
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
