Then tidings came to Joab: for Joab had turned after Adonijah, though he turned not after Absalom. And Joab fled unto the tabernacle of the LORD, and caught hold on the horns of the altar.
When the news reached Joab, he was terrified. Joab had supported Adonijah's attempt to become king, though he had stayed loyal during Absalom's earlier rebellion. So Joab ran to the Lord's sacred tent and grabbed hold of the corners of the altar for protection.
Joab, realizing he was in serious trouble for backing the wrong side in a power struggle, desperately sought sanctuary at God's altar.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs during Solomon's consolidation of power after becoming king. Joab, David's longtime military commander, had supported Adonijah's failed bid for the throne instead of Solomon. In ancient times, grabbing the horns (corners) of the altar was a way to claim divine protection and asylum from punishment.
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