And Joab answered, The LORD make his people an hundred times so many more as they be: but, my lord the king, are they not all my lord’s servants? why then doth my lord require this thing? why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel?
Joab replied, 'May the LORD multiply his people a hundred times more than they are now! But my lord the king, aren't they all your servants already? Why do you want to do this? Why would you bring guilt upon Israel?'
Joab is questioning King David's decision to count the people, warning him that this census could bring trouble and guilt to the nation.
📚 Historical Context
This verse occurs when King David ordered a military census of Israel, which was seen as showing lack of trust in God's provision and protection. Joab, David's military commander, recognized this as a spiritually dangerous act that could provoke God's judgment. In ancient Israel, conducting a census without God's command was often viewed as pride or preparing for war without seeking divine guidance.
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