# Joab # ## Definition: ## Joab was an important military leader for King David throughout his 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 over 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](../other/absalom.md), [david](../other/david.md)) ## Bible References: ## * [1 Chronicles 02:16-17](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/1ch/02/16) * [1 Kings 01:7-8](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/1ki/01/07) * [1 Samuel 26:6-8](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/1sa/26/06) * [2 Samuel 02:18-19](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/2sa/02/18) * [Nehemiah 07:11-14](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/neh/07/11)