So she said, “There’s an old saying: ‘Be sure to ask at Abel ⌞before doing anything⌟. That’s the way they settle matters.’
He came near, and she asked, “Are you Joab?” “I am,” he answered. “Listen to what I have to say,” she told him. “I’m listening,” he answered.
We are peaceful and faithful Israelites. Are you trying to destroy a mother city in Israel? Why should you swallow up what belongs to the Lord?”