1 Kings 2:6
ESV
Act therefore according to your wisdom, but do not let his gray head go down to Sheol in peace.
NIV
Deal with him according to your wisdom, but do not let his gray head go down to the grave in peace.
NASB
So act as your wisdom dictates, and do not let his gray hair go down to Sheol in peace.
CSB
Act according to your wisdom, and do not let his gray head descend to Sheol in peace.
NLT
Do with him what you think best, but don’t let him grow old and go to his grave in peace.
KJV
Do therefore according to thy wisdom, and let not his hoar head go down to the grave in peace.
NKJV
Therefore do according to your wisdom, and do not let his gray hair go down to the grave in peace.
What does 1 Kings 2:6 mean?
David is telling Solomon how to establish his kingdom politically. David had Solomon anointed king in the middle of Solomon's brother's self-coronation (1 Kings 1). The military commander Joab and the priest Abiathar support Solomon's brother. The new king needs to remove those who would challenge him before he can reign confidently.David's first suggestion is to take out Joab. Joab murdered two generals in times of peace (2 Samuel 3:27; 20:8–10). David seems to tell Solomon he needs to execute Joab. Joab joined with David before David's 40-year reign began (1 Samuel 22:1). David says he has a "gray head," meaning he's old. He's fought even more than David, and his body is likely pretty beat up. Still, David doesn't want him to die of natural causes. He wants Joab to be properly punished for murder so his soul will not begin its journey to the afterlife in peace.
The king leaves the details to his son. This is the first indication that Solomon was naturally wise before God famously gave him a unique portion of wisdom (1 Kings 3:6–14). David knew Joab needed to die, but it seems he either didn't know how or didn't have the resolve.
Whether through Solomon's wisdom or coincidence, he doesn't address Joab until the old general insults him personally. Joab supported Solomon's brother's early claim to the throne (1 Kings 1:7). When Adonijah made another attempt to build support, Solomon had him executed (1 Kings 2:19–25). Joab realizes what's coming. He runs to the tabernacle in Gibeon and grabs hold of the "horns" on the altar. This is the act of a man who killed accidentally and wants a fair hearing (Exodus 21:14). Solomon doesn't need to investigate if Joab is guilty. Even when Joab refuses to let go of the altar, Solomon has Benaiah execute him (1 Kings 2:28–34).
