'Commander' in the Bible
David said, “Whoever is the first to kill a Jebusite will become chief commander.” Joab son of Zeruiah went up first, so he became the chief.
He was more honored than the Three and became their commander even though he did not become one of the Three.
When the Arameans realized that they had been defeated by Israel, they sent messengers to summon the Arameans who were across the Euphrates. They were led by Shophach, the commander of Hadadezer’s army.
But the Arameans fled before Israel, and David killed 7,000 of their charioteers and 40,000 foot soldiers. He also killed Shophach, commander of the army.
The third army commander, as chief for the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest; 24,000 were in his division.
The fourth commander, for the fourth month, was Joab’s brother Asahel, and his son Zebadiah was commander after him; 24,000 were in his division.
The fifth, for the fifth month, was the commander Shamhuth the Izrahite; 24,000 were in his division.
After Ahithophel came Jehoiada son of Benaiah, then Abiathar. Joab was the commander of the king’s army.