Second Samuel Chapters 20-24 “The bitter feelings aroused in the confrontation between the Judahites and their northern neighbors at Gilgal (19:40-43) served as kindling for a second fire of rebellion against David…After the emotional shoving match with Judah, the northern tribes were in no mood to remain with David; and having supported Absalom—a Judahite—in an unsuccessful bid, they were in no mood to remain with the Judahites” (Bergen p. 434). Chapter 20 20:1-2 The match that lighted the fire this time was a trouble-maker (lit., man of Belial), named “Sheba” (SHEE buh) the son of “Bichri” (BICK irh) who was from the tribe of Benjamin. His campaign slogan (20:2), would be used for future rebels (1 Kings 12:16; 2 Chron. 10:16). “Despite the fact that David had been divinely anointed king over Israel, Sheba apparently suspects that David’s loyalties lie in the south and therefore urges the representatives of the northern tribes to recommend secession” (Gaebelein p. 1043). 20:2 The men of Judah, however remained with David and escorted him from the Jordan to Jerusalem. Wow! No sooner has David returned from a major rebellion, another rebellion breaks out! 20:3 The first order of business upon returning to Jerusalem was to deal with the ten concubines who had been humiliated by Absalom. David decided that they would be treated as widows. Smith says, this was done, “Since Absalom, who had claimed them as his wives, was now dead” (pp. 377-378). Yet, I believe a better interpretation is that David is starting to distance himself from what had been a violation of the Law (Deuteronomy 17:17). “In making this move, David not only distances himself from his own former practice but also offers a contrast to the conduct of Absalom” (Gaebelein p. 1044). It seems that David realized that in this area, he had become a king “like all the other nations”. 20:4-5 Remember, Amasa had replaced Joab as the general in charge of David’s army (19:13). David immediately commands Amasa to gather an army to deal with the rebellion among the northern tribes, yet apparently, he was not very successful in organizing an army. Time was of the essence, so David turns to Abishai (20:6).
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