Amasa
Theme:
The outsized impact of casualties
Business Application:
Set new leaders up for success and prevent political fallout
Who he was:
Amasa was David’s nephew, son of his sister and an Ishmaelite. His name means “a burden.” He captained Absalom’s army during the insurrection. After their defeat, David was angry with Joab for having Absalom killed, against his orders. So he replaced him with Amasa.
On Amasa’s first assignment to crush a rebellion, he took longer than expected so David sent Abishai after him and Joab joined them. Pretending to approach him for a greeting, Joab stabbed him and he fell in a pool of his own blood. The sight of his body stopped the troops in their tracks. They could only move forward once he was moved to the side of the road and covered.
On David’s deathbed, he reminded Solomon of how Joab killed Abner and Amasa in peacetime and urged Solomon to deal with him.
Why his story matters:
Amasa’s story illustrates the challenge David faced building unity and overcoming the stronghold Joab had on the army. Joab’s determination to maintain control at any cost created a culture of fear and repeatedly threatened the unity David wanted to promote.
What we can learn from him:
We see the story of Amasa played out when organizations introduce new leaders to accomplish a goal, but they neglect providing the support they need to succeed. We also see the impact that political fallout and botched layoffs have on morale.
Where we see his archetype today:
Any time someone who has been marginalized has an opportunity for a position of power and influence. They may have been surrounded by negative voices of people who benefitted from keeping them down.
How we can learn more about him:
Amasa is introduced in 1 Chronicles 2:13-17. We see his role in Absalom’s rebellion in 2 Samuel 17:25 followed by David forgiving and giving him Joab’s position in 2 Samuel 19:13. The story of his demise is in 2 Samuel 20. Retribution against Joab is found in 1 Kings 2:5-6, 28-32.