Definition: And it was told king Solomon that Joab was fled unto the tabernacle of the LORD; and, behold, [he is] by the altar. Then Solomon sent Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, saying, Go, fall upon him.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Kings 2:29. It’s a really important story about God’s plan and a moment of crisis for King Solomon. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Joab Fled: A man named Joab, who was a trusted soldier under King Solomon, suddenly ran away from the Temple of the Lord – which is essentially his home and place of worship. By the Altar: He fled to the altar of God! This is a very significant act. It shows a deep disrespect towards the divine presence. Solomon’s Command: King Solomon, who was already worried about his own mistakes, gave a direct order to Benaiah. What Does This Mean? This event is seen as a serious sign of trouble and disobedience. Here's what it suggests: Disobedience: Joab wasn’t just running away; he was deliberately defying God’s command. He was choosing to be separate from the Lord. Sin & Shame: Running to the altar is a very serious thing, signifying a fallen state. It shows that Joab was not being faithful to his duty and the will of God. God’s Wrath: This act likely angered God, who is the ultimate ruler and judge. It's a sign that something was wrong with Joab’s heart and actions. Why did Solomon do this? The Bible doesn’t explicitly state why Solomon sent Benaiah to confront Joab, but it suggests it was a response to some past wrongdoing or disrespect toward the Lord. It's part of a larger pattern of disobedience that God was trying to correct. In short: This verse highlights a moment of crisis and a consequence for a fallen person – a disrespectful act towards God. It’s a dramatic scene that shows how serious things can be when we stray from the path of righteousness. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this passage in more detail? For example, would you like to know: More about the significance of the altar? What might have caused Joab to disobey?