דברי הימים א, פרק כ״א, פסוק ד׳

A king's stubbornness can easily overpower the reservations of his advisors, setting a controversial plan into motion. David issued a firm and absolute command that could not be ignored. In the past, he generally accepted the advice of his army commander, Joab, even when that advice was unpleasant to hear. In this situation, however, the idea simply would not let him go. David stood his ground and refused to yield to Joab's opposition, even though it was entirely unclear what actual benefit would come from the decision.

Left with no choice but to follow the royal decree, Joab set out on his mission. He traveled throughout the entire land of Israel to conduct the population census. After completing the task across the country, he made his way back to Jerusalem.