16
But a shrewd woman called out from the city, "Listen, everybody! Please tell Joab to come close so I can talk to him."
17
When he had come, the woman said, "Are you Joab?" He said, "I am." "Then," she said, "listen to what I have to say." He said, "I'm listening."
18
"There's an old saying in these parts: 'If it's answers you want, come to Abel and get it straight.'
19
We're a peaceful people here, and reliable. And here you are, trying to tear down one of Israel's mother cities. Why would you want to mess with God's legacy like that?"
20
Joab protested, "Believe me, you've got me all wrong. I'm not here to hurt anyone or destroy anything - not on your life!
21
But a man from the hill country of Ephraim, Sheba son of Bicri by name, revolted against King David; hand him over, him only, and we'll get out of here." The woman told Joab, "Sounds good. His head will be tossed to you from the wall."
22
The woman presented her strategy to the whole city and they did it: They cut off the head of Sheba son of Bicri and tossed it down to Joab. He then blew a blast on the ram's horn trumpet and the soldiers all went home. Joab returned to the king in Jerusalem.
23
Joab was again commander of the whole army of Israel. Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Kerethites and Pelethites;
24
Adoniram over the work crews; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was clerk;
25
Sheva was historian; Zadok and Abiathar were priests;
26
Ira the Jairite was David's chaplain.