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Abigail(2)

Abigail in the Bible — daughter of Nahash, sister of Zeruiah (2SA 17:25), (half-?) sister of King David (1CH 2:16). Referenced in 5 scripture passages.

Name meaning: the father's joy

Profile

Gender
female
Scripture References
5 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
4 connections

Biography

The intelligent and beautiful wife of the wealthy but foolish Nabal. When Nabal refused to help David and his men, Abigail wisely intervened with generous provisions, preventing David from taking vengeance. After Nabal's sudden death, she became David's wife and bore him a son, Chileab.

Significance

Abigail exemplifies godly wisdom, discernment, and courage in crisis. Her intervention saved her household and kept David from sinning, demonstrating how a wise woman builds her house.

Key Events

Intervened to prevent David's vengeance(1 Samuel 25:18-35)
Nabal died after hearing of her actions(1 Samuel 25:37-38)
Became David's wife(1 Samuel 25:39-42)
Bore Chileab to David(2 Samuel 3:3)

Names & Labels (1)

Abigailproper name
Hebrew
אֲבִגָ֑יִל
Transliteration
avigayil
Meaning
[my] father rejoices or father [cause] of joy
Greek
Αβιγαιαν
Reference
2SA 17:25
Strong's
H26

Family & Relationships (4)

mother

Amasa(2SA 17:25)

sister

Zeruiah(2SA 17:25)
David(1CH 2:16)

daughter

Nahash(2SA 17:25)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Abigail in the Bible?

Abigail is described in the Bible as daughter of Nahash, sister of Zeruiah (2SA 17:25), (half-?) sister of King David (1CH 2:16).

What does the name Abigail mean?

The name Abigail means “the father's joy” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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