And David sent forth a third part of the people under the hand of Joab, and a third part under the hand of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab’s brother, and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite. And the king said unto the people, I will surely go forth with you myself also.
David divided his army into three groups. He put one third under Joab's command, one third under Abishai (who was Joab's brother and the son of Zeruiah), and one third under Ittai from Gath. Then the king told his people, 'I will definitely go out to battle with you myself.'
David is organizing his army into three divisions under trusted commanders and declaring his intention to personally lead them into battle.
📚 Historical Context
This takes place during Absalom's rebellion, when David's own son had turned against him and was trying to take the throne. David had fled Jerusalem and was now preparing to fight back against the rebel forces. The three commanders mentioned were David's most trusted military leaders who had remained loyal to him.
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