17. So Joab came near her. She asked him, “Are you Joab?”He answered, “Yes, I am.”Then she said, “Listen to what I say.”Joab said, “I’m listening.”
18. Then the woman said, “In the past people would say, ‘Ask for advice at Abel,’ and the problem would be solved.
19. I am one of the peaceful, loyal people of Israel. You are trying to destroy an important city of Israel. Why must you destroy what belongs to the Lord?”
20. Joab answered, “I would prefer not to destroy or ruin anything!