MPV Commentary

24-27. Joab came to the king and asked, "What have you done?" Joab's knowledge of Abner's cunning nature might have led him to doubt Abner's sincerity and question David's policy of relying on his loyalty. However, there were likely other personal reasons that made Joab uneasy about the reception given to Abner. As a skilled military leader, Abner was a formidable rival who could potentially undermine Joab's influence with the army and the nation. If Abner's overtures were successful, he would have earned David's gratitude, making it difficult for Joab to maintain his position of power.

The blood feud between Joab and Abner since Asahel's death (2Sa 2:23) also played a role in Joab's actions. Determined to eliminate the threat, Joab fabricated an excuse, probably in David's name, to recall Abner, and then ambushed him outside Hebron, avoiding the city's status as a place of refuge.

31. The king told Joab and everyone with him to tear their clothes and put on sackcloth as a sign of mourning. David's grief was genuine and profound, and he publicly expressed it by ordering funeral honors for Abner.

The king himself carried the bier, a wooden frame used to transport the body.

33-34. The king lamented over Abner, expressing both sorrow and indignation. As Abner had killed Asahel in battle (2Sa 2:23), Joab did not have the right of revenge. Moreover, his method of obtaining satisfaction was lawless and reprehensible (1Ki 2:5). The deed was a blow to David's authority and prospects, but David's reaction and the funeral procession helped to clear his name and shift public opinion in his favor, paving the way for him to rule over all the tribes with greater honor than through Abner's treacherous negotiations.