Son of David's sister Zeruiah, and brother of Joab. He was one of David's officers and served him many years. He accompanied David into Saul's camp while he slept. 1 Samuel 26:6-9 . With Joab he slew Abner. 2 Samuel 3:30 . In his zeal for David he asked permission to slay Shimei. 2 Samuel 16:9; 2 Samuel 19:21 . In the rebellion of Absalom he commanded a third of David's army. 2 Samuel 18:2 . He rescued David from Ishbi-benob the giant. 2 Samuel 21:17 . He was captain of the second three of David's 'mighty men,' and slew three hundred men. 2 Samuel 23:18 . To him is attributed the slaughter of eighteen thousand Syrians or Edomites in the valley of salt. 1 Chronicles 18:12; 2 Samuel 8:13 .