Abital is one of the lesser-known wives of King David, mentioned in the Old Testament. Her name appears in the genealogical records of David's family, specifically in the context of his sons born in Hebron. The name "Abital" is of Hebrew origin, and it is often interpreted to mean "my father is dew," which may symbolize freshness or blessing.

Biblical References:

Abital is mentioned in the context of David's family in the following passage:

· 2 Samuel 3:4 : "The fifth was Shephatiah the son of Abital."

· 1 Chronicles 3:3 : "The fifth was Shephatiah by Abital, and the sixth was Ithream by David’s wife Eglah."

These references are part of the genealogical lists that detail the sons born to David during his reign in Hebron, before he became king over all Israel. Abital is listed as the mother of Shephatiah, David's fifth son. The records in both 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles are consistent in naming Abital as Shephatiah's mother, indicating her role in the royal lineage.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Abital lived during a time when polygamy was a common practice among the Israelite kings, often for political alliances and the strengthening of dynastic claims. David's multiple marriages, including his union with Abital, reflect the customs and political strategies of the time. While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Abital's life or her relationship with David, her inclusion in the genealogical records underscores her significance in the lineage of the Davidic dynasty.

Role in David's Family:

Abital's primary biblical role is as the mother of Shephatiah. The lack of additional narrative about her life or her interactions with David and his other wives suggests that her significance in the biblical text is primarily genealogical. Her son, Shephatiah, like many of David's sons, does not have a prominent role in the biblical narrative, and there are no further accounts of his life or deeds in the scriptures.

Theological Implications:

The mention of Abital, along with David's other wives, highlights the complexity of David's family dynamics and the challenges that arose from his multiple marriages. The genealogical records serve to establish the legitimacy and continuity of David's lineage, which is central to the biblical narrative and the messianic expectations rooted in the Davidic covenant.

In summary, Abital is a minor yet integral figure in the biblical account of King David's family. Her mention in the genealogical lists of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles affirms her role as a mother within the royal household, contributing to the broader narrative of Israel's history and the Davidic line.2 Samuel 3:4
And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 3:3
The fifth, Shephatiah of Abital: the sixth, Ithream by Eglah his wife.
Nave's Topical Index

37. Abital -- "my father is (the) dew," a wife of David
... Abital. From 'ab and tal; father of dew (ie Fresh); Abital, a wife of King David --
Abital. see HEBREW 'ab. see HEBREW tal. 36, 37. Abital. 38 . ...
/hebrew/37.htm - 6k

How David Reigned Over one Tribe at Hebron While the Son Of
... 4. About this time David was become the father of six sons ... the fourth he named Adonijah,
by his wife Haggith; the fifth was Shephatiah, by Abital; the sixth ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 1 how david reigned.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... the judges"The Philistines and the Hebrew kingdom"Saul, David, Solomon, the ... narrative
(Judges 4:5) has confounded the prophetess Deborah, wife of Lapidoth ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Who are the sons of David mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

How many children did King David have? | GotQuestions.org

How many wives did King David have? | GotQuestions.org

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