David Regains the Throne

The overthrow of Absalom did not at once bring peace to the kingdom.

So large a part of the nation had joined in revolt that David would not return to his capital and resume his authority without an invitation from the tribes.

In the confusion that followed Absalom’s defeat there was no prompt and decided action to recall the king, and when at last Judah undertook to bring back David, the jealousy of the other tribes was roused, and a counter-revolution followed.” The tribes were divided in their support for David. Many vocal opponents objected to his return.

Those supporting the return of David could not understand what was taking their leaders so long to invite him back from exile.

They pointed out the many times David had saved their country from its enemies. Why was he not again welcome in his own land? David was wondering the same thing.

Why was his own tribe of Judah taking so long to recall him (2 Samuel 19:11)? Finally, Judah sent a message to David, saying, “Return thou, and all thy servants” (v. 14).

This formal invitation to reclaim the throne was not the consent of all the tribes, but at least it was a start. David moved from Mahanaim to the Jordan, where he was met by an official delegation. He then went on to Gilgal, where all the people of Judah and half the people of Israel welcomed him back to the kingdom (v. 40). David now made a startling change to his army command. David chose his nephew Amasa to replace Joab (1 Chronicles 2:13–17).

Amasa had been Absalom’s commander in chief.

It was a shrewd political move. Amasa could influence the warriors who had followed Absalom, and he would be prevented from continuing to foment dissent by having to swear allegiance to David. It was a bold stroke for another reason.

Even though Joab had been with David from the beginning, David was tired of Joab’s familiarity and domineering influence. It was Joab who petitioned for Absalom’s return from exile. It was Joab who killed Absalom in direct contravention of David’s order.

It was Joab who rebuked David for mourning his son and told him to stop acting selfishly. Popularity, being changeable, is a tenuous asset.