Scolding

Joab stands in the foreground with raised hands and a stern face, confronting King David, who sits withdrawn beneath a royal canopy. The scene portrays the tense aftermath of Absalom’s death, when David’s grief for his rebellious son overshadowed the victory and sacrifice of his loyal servants. Joab’s rebuke in 2 Samuel 19 presses the king to rise, speak to his people, and honor those who had preserved his kingdom. The artwork emphasizes the difficult ministry of truthful counsel: compassion for personal sorrow must be held together with responsibility to God-given leadership and the welfare of the people.