שמואל ב, פרק כ׳, פסוק ז׳

The sudden eruption of a rebellion demands an immediate and decisive response. To restore stability to the kingdom, a diverse coalition of military and civilian groups rapidly mobilizes and departs from Jerusalem under the leadership of Abishai.

The core of this pursuit force consists of Joab's loyal commanders and soldiers, veteran troops who followed his orders in previous wars [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Although David officially removed Joab from his position as head of the army and placed Abishai in charge, Joab still joins the mission alongside his men, eventually taking full command of the operation [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Joining them are the Cherethites and Pelethites, groups whose exact identities are understood in two distinct ways. One approach views them as specialized military units made up of highly skilled archers and slingers [מצודת ציון]. A contrasting perspective identifies them not as soldiers, but as two distinguished families that comprised the high court during David's reign. In this view, these respected civilian leaders join the pursuit to lend their authority and assist in restoring the monarchy [רלב״ג].

David's most prominent and elite warriors also march out with this coalition [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Their objective is sharp and focused: to immediately chase down the rebel leader, Sheba son of Bichri, using only the forces they have on hand at that moment. They have no plan or intention to link up with Amasa and his separate army. In fact, their eventual encounter with Amasa along the road is entirely by chance [מלבי״ם].