Abigail: A Woman of Strength and Wisdom in the Scripture

Who is Abigail?

Abigail, which means “my Father is joyful” in Hebrew was an important figure in the Bible. Abigail is mentioned in the Old Testament mainly in 1 Samuel. She is known for her wisdom, beauty, and good understanding. She was married to Nabal, a churlish and evil man, who was of the house of Caleb. Abigail is known for saving her household from the wrath of David. After the death of Nabal, Abigail married King David and became his third wife after Ahinoam and Michal, the daughter of Saul. Abigail bore King David his second son, Chileab.

Story of Abigail

The story of Abigail starts when David sends 10 of his men to Nabal for food. David and his men had protected his shepherds. Nabal reviles the men. The men went back to David and David was ready to destroy Nabal and his household. One of the young men told Abigail what was happening and she didn’t hesitate in trying to save her family from David’s wrath.

Abigail put together some food and with her servants went to meet the future King David and his small army on her donkey. When she saw David, she humbly bowed before him and asked him not to destroy her family and household because of the actions of her husband Nabal. She pleads with him not to seek bloodshed or revenge. David blesses her…