# Joab

## Definition:

Joab was an important military leader for King David throughout David’s entire reign. 

* Before David became king, Joab had already been one of his loyal followers.
* Later, during David’s reign as king over Israel, Joab became the commander of King David’s army.
* Joab was also King David’s nephew, since his mother was one of David’s sisters.
* When David’s son Absalom betrayed him by trying to take over his kingship, Joab killed Absalom in order to protect the king.
* Joab was a very aggressive fighter and killed many people who were enemies of Israel.

(See also: [Absalom](../names/absalom.md), [David](../names/david.md))

## Bible References:

* [1 Chronicles 02:16-17](rc://en/tn/help/1ch/02/16)
* [1 Kings 01:07](rc://en/tn/help/1ki/01/07)
* [1 Samuel 26:6-8](rc://en/tn/help/1sa/26/06)
* [2 Samuel 02:18](rc://en/tn/help/2sa/02/18)
* [Nehemiah 07:11](rc://en/tn/help/neh/07/11)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H3097
