Introduction:
Abner, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is primarily known as the cousin of King Saul and the commander of his army. His account is interwoven with the early history of the Israelite monarchy, particularly during the reigns of Saul and David. Abner's actions and decisions significantly influenced the political landscape of Israel during this tumultuous period.

Family and Background:
Abner was the son of Ner, who was Saul's uncle, making Abner Saul's cousin. This familial connection placed him in a position of influence and power within the kingdom of Israel. His name, Abner, means "father of light" or "my father is a lamp," reflecting a common practice of the time to incorporate the divine element into personal names.

Role in Saul's Reign:
As the commander of Saul's army, Abner played a crucial role in the military campaigns against the Philistines and other adversaries of Israel. His leadership is first mentioned in 1 Samuel 14:50, where he is identified as the son of Ner and the commander of Saul's forces. Abner's loyalty to Saul was evident throughout Saul's reign, as he supported the king in various military endeavors.

Conflict with David:
After Saul's death, Abner initially supported Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, as king over Israel, opposing David, who had been anointed by the prophet Samuel. This division led to a prolonged conflict between the house of Saul and the house of David. Abner's allegiance to Ish-bosheth is documented in 2 Samuel 2:8-9: "Meanwhile, Abner son of Ner, the commander of Saul’s army, took Saul’s son Ish-bosheth, brought him over to Mahanaim, and made him king over Gilead, Asher, Jezreel, Ephraim, Benjamin—over all Israel."

Defection to David:
The relationship between Abner and Ish-bosheth eventually soured, leading to Abner's decision to defect to David. This pivotal moment is recorded in 2 Samuel 3:6-11, where a dispute over a concubine led to Abner's realization that his loyalty to Ish-bosheth was no longer tenable. Abner then sought to transfer the allegiance of the northern tribes to David, recognizing David's divine appointment as king over all Israel.

Death and Legacy:
Abner's life came to a tragic end when he was murdered by Joab, David's military commander, as an act of vengeance for the death of Joab's brother Asahel, whom Abner had killed in battle. This event is recounted in 2 Samuel 3:27: "Now when Abner returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside into the gateway to speak with him privately, and there he stabbed him in the stomach. So Abner died in revenge for the blood of Asahel, Joab’s brother."

David mourned Abner's death, recognizing his contributions and lamenting the loss of a great leader. In 2 Samuel 3:38, David said to his servants, "Do you not realize that a great prince has fallen today in Israel?"

Significance:
Abner's life and actions had a lasting impact on the history of Israel. His initial opposition and subsequent support of David were crucial in the unification of the tribes under David's rule. Abner's account highlights themes of loyalty, power, and the complex dynamics of leadership during a formative period in Israel's history.Abiner

(father of light). Same as ABNER. (1 Samuel 14:50) margin.

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