Topical Encyclopedia Amasa is a biblical figure prominently mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the historical narratives of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles. He is a significant character in the turbulent period of King David's reign, known for his role in the political and military dynamics of ancient Israel.Family Background and Lineage Amasa was the son of Ithra, an Israelite, and Abigail, the sister of Zeruiah, making him a nephew of King David. This familial connection placed Amasa in close relation to some of the most influential figures in David's court, including Joab, David's formidable military commander, who was Amasa's cousin. The genealogical details are outlined in 1 Chronicles 2:17: "Amasa was the son of Jether the Ishmaelite, who had married Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and sister of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab." Role in Absalom's Rebellion Amasa's most notable involvement in the biblical narrative occurs during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son. Absalom, in his bid to usurp the throne, appointed Amasa as the commander of his army, replacing Joab. This appointment is recorded in 2 Samuel 17:25: "Now Absalom had appointed Amasa over the army in place of Joab. Amasa was the son of a man named Jether the Ishmaelite, who had married Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and sister of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab." Amasa's leadership in Absalom's rebellion placed him in direct opposition to King David, yet after Absalom's defeat, David sought to reconcile the divided kingdom. In a strategic move to unify the nation and diminish Joab's influence, David offered Amasa the position of commander over his own army, as seen in 2 Samuel 19:13: "And say to Amasa, ‘Are you not my own flesh and blood? May God punish me, and ever so severely, if you are not the commander of my army from now on in place of Joab!’" Death and Legacy Despite David's intentions, Amasa's tenure as commander was short-lived. During the subsequent revolt led by Sheba son of Bichri, Amasa was tasked with assembling the men of Judah to quell the insurrection. However, his delay in fulfilling this duty provided Joab with an opportunity to eliminate him. In a calculated act of treachery, Joab murdered Amasa under the guise of a friendly greeting, as described in 2 Samuel 20:9-10: "Joab said to Amasa, 'Is it well with you, my brother?' And Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him. But Amasa did not notice the sword in Joab’s hand, and Joab struck him in the stomach and spilled his intestines to the ground. He did not need to strike him again, and Amasa died." Amasa's death is a stark reminder of the brutal and often treacherous nature of political and military life in ancient Israel. His account reflects the complexities of loyalty, power, and family dynamics within the biblical narrative. Despite his brief and tumultuous career, Amasa's involvement in the events of David's reign highlights the intricate web of relationships and rivalries that shaped the history of Israel during this period. Library How David, when He had Recovered his Kingdom, was Reconciled to ... Thesaurus Amasa's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Amasa's (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 20:11 And one of Joab's young men, taking his place at Amasa's side, said ... /a/amasa's.htm - 6k Joab (128 Occurrences) Ama'sa (12 Occurrences) Ama'sai (5 Occurrences) Amashai (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Amasa's (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 20:11 Subtopics Related Terms |
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