# So the king said to Joab

It is implied that the king had Joab brought before him so that he could speak to him. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: "Then the king summoned Joab and said to him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

# Look now

This phrase is used to draw someone's attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: "Listen"

# this thing

This refers to what Joab wants the king to do. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: "what you want me to do" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])