Amasa, a significant figure in the Old Testament, is primarily known for his role during the reign of King David. He was appointed as the commander of the army in place of Joab, a decision that had profound implications for the political and military landscape of Israel.

Background and Lineage

Amasa was the son of Jether (also called Ithra), an Ishmaelite, and Abigail, the sister of Zeruiah, who was the mother of Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. This made Amasa a cousin to Joab, David's long-serving military commander. The familial connections are noted 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."

Role in Absalom's Rebellion

Amasa's rise to prominence occurred during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son. Absalom, seeking to usurp the throne, appointed Amasa as the commander of his forces, replacing Joab, who remained loyal to David. This appointment is significant as it highlights the internal divisions within David's kingdom and the shifting allegiances during this tumultuous period.

David's Appointment of Amasa

After Absalom's defeat and death, David sought to unify the kingdom and heal the divisions caused by the rebellion. In a strategic move to win the loyalty of those who had supported Absalom, David appointed Amasa as the commander of his army, replacing Joab. This decision is recorded 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!’"

David's appointment of Amasa was a political maneuver aimed at consolidating his rule and demonstrating magnanimity towards former adversaries. It also served as a rebuke to Joab, who had killed Absalom against David's explicit orders.

Amasa's Death

Despite his appointment, Amasa's tenure as commander was short-lived. When Sheba son of Bichri led a rebellion against David, Amasa was tasked with assembling the men of Judah to quell the uprising. However, he delayed in carrying out his orders, which provided Joab with an opportunity to reclaim his position. Joab, known for his ruthlessness, met Amasa at Gibeon and deceitfully killed him. This act is 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."

Significance

Amasa's appointment and subsequent death illustrate the complex dynamics of loyalty, power, and retribution in the court of King David. His account serves as a reminder of the challenges David faced in maintaining unity and order within his kingdom. Amasa's brief role as commander underscores the volatile nature of political alliances and the often brutal reality of leadership in ancient Israel.