1 Chronicles 21:6

But Joab did not include Levi and Benjamin in the count, because the king's command was detestable to him.

Study Bible

But Joab
Joab, the commander of King David's army, is a significant figure in the narrative of Israel's history. His name in Hebrew, יוֹאָב (Yo'av), means "Yahweh is father." Joab's actions often reflect a pragmatic and sometimes ruthless approach to leadership. In this context, Joab's decision not to include certain tribes in the census demonstrates his discernment and moral courage, as he recognizes the king's command as contrary to God's will.

did not include
The Hebrew root for "did not include" is לֹא (lo), meaning "no" or "not," and the verb פָּקַד (paqad), meaning "to count" or "to number." This phrase indicates a deliberate omission, suggesting Joab's conscious decision to act against the king's directive. This act of omission is significant, as it reflects Joab's internal conflict and his prioritization of divine law over royal command.

Levi and Benjamin
The tribes of Levi and Benjamin hold unique positions within the Israelite community. Levi, the priestly tribe, was traditionally exempt from military duties and censuses, as their role was primarily spiritual and religious. Benjamin, the smallest tribe, had a complex history, including its near destruction in the events of Judges 20. Joab's exclusion of these tribes may reflect both traditional exemptions and a strategic decision to avoid further conflict or divine displeasure.

in the count
The "count" refers to the census ordered by King David. In ancient Israel, censuses were often conducted for military or taxation purposes. However, this particular census was seen as an act of pride and self-reliance, contrary to the reliance on God that was expected of Israel's leaders. The Hebrew term for "count" is מִסְפָּר (mispar), which can also imply a reckoning or accounting, further emphasizing the gravity of the act.

because the king’s command
The "king's command" highlights the authority and responsibility of King David. In Hebrew, מִצְוַת הַמֶּלֶךְ (mitzvat hamelech) underscores the weight of royal decrees. However, this command is juxtaposed with divine law, illustrating the tension between human authority and God's will. David's command, driven by pride, ultimately leads to consequences for the nation, reminding readers of the importance of humility and obedience to God.

was detestable to him
The word "detestable" in Hebrew is תּוֹעֵבָה (to'evah), often used to describe actions that are abominable or repugnant in the sight of God. Joab's reaction indicates a deep moral and spiritual repulsion to the census. This phrase underscores the seriousness of the sin in God's eyes and serves as a warning against actions motivated by pride and self-sufficiency. Joab's discernment and resistance to the king's command highlight the importance of aligning one's actions with divine principles, even in the face of earthly authority.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joab
The commander of King David's army, tasked with conducting the census. He is a key military leader and often involved in David's decisions, though he sometimes acts independently or against David's wishes.

2. Levi
One of the tribes of Israel, set apart for religious duties and service in the temple. The Levites were traditionally not included in military counts due to their special role.

3. Benjamin
The smallest tribe of Israel, known for its fierce warriors. It is significant as the tribe of King Saul, David's predecessor.

4. King David
The ruler of Israel who ordered the census, an act that was later recognized as sinful and led to divine judgment.

5. The Census
An event where David ordered a count of the fighting men in Israel, which was against God's will and led to consequences for the nation.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Joab's reluctance to follow David's command highlights the importance of aligning our actions with God's will, even when under authority.

The Role of Conscience
Joab's decision to exclude Levi and Benjamin reflects the role of personal conscience in decision-making, especially when commands conflict with moral or divine law.

Consequences of Sin
David's census, though seemingly administrative, had spiritual implications, reminding us that our actions can have unforeseen consequences.

Respect for Sacred Roles
The exclusion of the Levites underscores the respect and reverence due to those set apart for God's service, a principle that can be applied to how we view and support church leadership today.

The Danger of Pride
The census may have been motivated by pride or a desire for self-reliance, warning us against placing trust in human strength over divine provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Joab's decision to exclude Levi and Benjamin about the role of personal conviction in our lives?

2. How does the account of David's census in 1 Chronicles 21 compare to the instructions given in Exodus 30:12, and what does this teach us about following God's commands?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our actions align with God's will, especially when faced with pressure from authority figures?

4. How does the exclusion of the Levites from the census inform our understanding of the separation between secular and sacred duties?

5. Reflect on a time when pride led to a decision that had negative consequences. How can we guard against similar mistakes in the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 24
This parallel account provides additional context and details about the census and its consequences, highlighting the gravity of David's decision.

Exodus 30:12
This verse outlines the proper way to conduct a census, emphasizing the need for atonement money to prevent a plague, which David neglected.

Numbers 1:47-49
These verses explain why the Levites were traditionally excluded from military censuses, reinforcing Joab's decision not to count them.