The story is based on 2 Samuel 20.  In this somewhat obscure story a man named Sheba foments revolt against David.  This was right after Absalom, David’s son, had rebelled against his father.  Though Absalom was unable to stay in power, he had greatly weakened his father.  Because of that, Sheba tried his hand at removing David from the throne.  But this time, David did not have to leave Jerusalem.  Eventually, Joab, a military officer, chased Sheba and found him holed up in Abel.  While threatening the city, a wise woman in the city negotiated with Joab.  Eventually, she agreed to deliver Sheba in exchange for Joab’s withdrawing his troops.  The woman persuaded the people in the city to sacrifice Sheba, which they did by decapitating him and throwing the head to the invading troops!