1 Chronicles 21:6 (KJV) states, "But Levi and Benjamin counted he not among them: for the king's word was abominable to Joab."

This verse comes from the Old Testament, specifically from the book of 1 Chronicles. The book of 1 Chronicles is a historical account of the genealogy of the Israelites, and it also contains stories about King David's reign and his preparation for building the Temple. In this particular verse, we see King David making an error in judgment that ultimately leads to disastrous consequences for the people of Israel.

In order to fully understand the meaning and commentary of 1 Chronicles 21:6, it is important to examine the context in which it was written. In the preceding verses, we learn that King David becomes proud and decides to take a census of the people of Israel. This act displeases God, as it demonstrates a lack of trust in Him and a reliance on human strength and numbers. The act of taking a census was not inherently sinful, but it was David's motive behind it that was displeasing to God.

In 1 Chronicles 21:6, we see that Joab, the commander of David's army, was uneasy about carrying out the census. He did not want the tribe of Levi and the tribe of Benjamin to be counted, as their inclusion went against God's command. Joab understood that the king's order was wrong, and he felt that it went against the will of God.

The phrase "for the king's word was abominable to Joab" highlights Joab's deep respect and reverence for God. He was unwilling to carry out an order that went against God's command, even if it meant defying the king's wishes. This demonstrates Joab's strong faith and his commitment to following God's laws above all else.

The refusal of Joab to include Levi and Benjamin in the census emphasizes the spiritual significance of these two tribes. The tribe of Levi held a special role within the Israelite community, as they were set apart for service to God. They were responsible for the religious rituals and ceremonies, and they were not to be counted alongside the other tribes. Similarly, the tribe of Benjamin held a unique position as the smallest tribe, yet they were highly favored and held a special place in the heart of God.

The symbolism within this verse is powerful and speaks to the larger themes of obedience, faith, and the consequences of sin. It serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining steadfast in our faith, even when faced with pressure to compromise our beliefs. Joab's refusal to carry out the census serves as a powerful example of the need to prioritize God's commandments above human desires and ambitions.

The consequences of David's sin in taking the census are severe, as we later see that God sends a pestilence that results in the death of 70,000 men. This serves as a sobering reminder of the impact of sin and the importance of seeking forgiveness and repentance.

In conclusion, 1 Chronicles 21:6 offers a powerful lesson on the importance of obedience to God's commandments and the consequences of sin. It serves as a reminder of the need to prioritize faith and righteousness above all else, and the dangers of pride and self-reliance. Joab's unwavering commitment to God's laws and his refusal to carry out an order that went against them serves as an inspiring example of faithfulness and spiritual integrity. This verse encourages us to seek God's will above our own and to remain obedient to His commands, even in the face of adversity.