Joab
Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
(the LORD is Father) (2 Sam 2:18) - one of David's three nephews and his commander (1 Chr 2:16; 11:6). Joab first appears in the Books of Kings during David's reign at Hebron. At the head of David's servants he met Abner, who had crossed the Jordan with the army from Mahanaim, Ish-bosheth's residence, and defeated him near Gibeon. Abner fled and was pursued by Asahel. Although Asahel was renowned for speed, Abner killed him in self-defense. Abner's words to Asahel, 'Turn thee aside from following me: wherefore should I smite thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother?' (2 Sam 2:22), show that irreconcilable enmity had not yet arisen between Abner and Joab.