When the news came to Joab—for Joab had supported Adonijah although he had not supported Absalom—Joab fled to the tent of the LORD and caught hold of the horns of the altar.
Abiathar and Joab were both aiding and abetting in Adonijah's rebellious attempt, and it is probable were at the bottom of this new motion made of Adonijah for Abishag, and it should seem Solomon knew it, Kg1 2:22. This was, in both, an intolerable affront both to God and to the government, and the worse because of their high station and the great influence their examples might have upon many.
Commenting on 1 Kings 2:26-34
And it was told King Solomon that Joab was fled unto the tabernacle of the Lord,.... This account was brought him very probably by some of his courtiers: and, behold, he is by the altar; to which he betook himself for refuge, laying hold on the horns of it: then Solomon sent Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, saying, go, fall upon him; slay him; Josephus...
JOAB SLAIN. (1Ki. 2:28-45) Then tidings came to Joab--The execution of these sentences respectively on Adonijah and Abiathar prepared Joab for his fate. Death, due to his great crimes (Num 35:33), would long ago have been inflicted, had not his power and popularity with the army been too formidable for the old king.
Commenting on 1 Kings 2:28-45