But Amasa took no heed to the sword that was in Joab’s hand: so he smote him therewith in the fifth rib, and shed out his bowels to the ground, and struck him not again; and he died. So Joab and Abishai his brother pursued after Sheba the son of Bichri.
But Amasa didn't notice the sword in Joab's hand. So Joab struck him with it in the stomach, spilling his insides on the ground. He didn't need to strike him again—Amasa died. Then Joab and his brother Abishai continued chasing after Sheba, the son of Bichri.
This verse describes Joab's treacherous murder of Amasa, who was caught off guard and killed instantly, allowing Joab to continue pursuing the rebel Sheba.
📚 Historical Context
This occurred during King David's reign when Sheba led a rebellion against David's rule. David had appointed Amasa as commander of his army instead of Joab, creating jealousy and tension. Joab used the chaos of pursuing the rebel as an opportunity to eliminate his rival for military leadership through deception and murder.
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