Der unbekannte Joab

Abstract The figure of Joab, King David’s general, has been thoroughly researched, but only as far as 2 Sam 2–20 and 1 Kgs 1–2 are concerned, i.e. the texts which contain historically reliable material about him. But “legends” have also been tied to Joab. Thus he is said to have carried out a census on David’s orders and at the same time formulated the objections against it; this double role is attributed to him for narrative reasons (2 Sam 24 // 1 Chr 21). This report reflects Persian period conditions. According to the Chronicler he is said to have played a decisive role in the conquest of Jerusalem (1 Chr 11); with this information the Chronicler provides the answer to a question which lies behind 2 Sam 5:8 and remains unanswered there. Joab also proves to be a noble warrior without fault and blame, who treats David respectfully, which he does not in 2 Sam. Furthermore he contributes to the financing of the temple (1 Chr 26:28) and advocates the theology on which the provision of Lev 4:3 is based (1 Chr 21:3). Finally Joab plays the decisive role in a war against the Edomites (I Kgs 11; cf. Ps 60:1f.), which reflects also events at the time of the Diadoches. The legendary Joab is a many-sided character.