Her Wisdom and Tact

Abigail is a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, known for her wisdom and tact, particularly in her dealings with David and her husband, Nabal. Her account is primarily found in 1 Samuel 25. Abigail is described as "intelligent and beautiful" (1 Samuel 25:3), contrasting sharply with her husband, Nabal, who is characterized as "harsh and evil in his dealings."

The narrative unfolds during a time when David and his men were in the wilderness of Paran. David sent messengers to Nabal, a wealthy but surly man, requesting provisions, as David's men had previously protected Nabal's shepherds. Nabal's response was dismissive and insulting, saying, "Who is David? Who is this son of Jesse? Many servants these days are breaking away from their masters" (1 Samuel 25:10). This response angered David, who prepared to attack Nabal and his household.

Abigail, upon learning of the impending danger from one of her servants, acted swiftly and wisely. She gathered a generous supply of food and wine and set out to meet David, without informing her husband. Her approach to David was marked by humility and diplomacy. She dismounted her donkey and bowed before David, taking responsibility for the offense and pleading for mercy. Abigail's speech to David is a masterpiece of persuasion, as she acknowledged David's future as the leader of Israel and urged him not to shed blood in vengeance, which could later be a burden on his conscience. She said, "Please forgive your servant’s offense, for the LORD will surely make a lasting dynasty for my lord, because he fights the LORD’s battles. May no evil be found in you all your days" (1 Samuel 25:28).

David was moved by Abigail's words and recognized her wisdom, saying, "Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who sent you to meet me this day! Blessed be your discernment, and blessed be you for restraining me from bloodshed and from avenging myself with my own hands" (1 Samuel 25:32-33). He accepted her gifts and turned back from his intended violence.

Marriage to David

After Abigail's successful intervention, she returned to find Nabal holding a feast "like that of a king" (1 Samuel 25:36). She waited until the next morning, when Nabal was sober, to inform him of the events. Upon hearing the news, Nabal's heart failed, and he became like a stone. About ten days later, the LORD struck Nabal, and he died.

When David heard of Nabal's death, he sent for Abigail, proposing marriage. Recognizing David's leadership and the divine favor upon him, Abigail accepted. She responded with humility, saying, "Here is your maidservant, ready to serve you and wash the feet of my lord’s servants" (1 Samuel 25:41). Abigail then became one of David's wives, joining him in his journey and future reign as king.

Abigail's account is a testament to the power of wisdom and tact in the face of potential disaster. Her actions not only saved her household but also aligned her with David, who would become one of Israel's greatest kings. Her legacy is one of intelligence, courage, and faithfulness, qualities that have been admired throughout biblical history.1 Samuel 25:1
And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried him in his house at Ramah. And David arose, and went down to the wilderness of Paran.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 27:3
And David dwelled with Achish at Gath, he and his men, every man with his household, even David with his two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the Carmelitess, Nabal's wife.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 2:2
So David went up thither, and his two wives also, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail Nabal's wife the Carmelite.
Nave's Topical Index

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Abigail: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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