Topical Bible: Fasting in Times of Bereavement of Abner's Death

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The practice of fasting during periods of mourning is a significant theme in the biblical narrative, reflecting a deep expression of grief and a means of seeking divine intervention or comfort. One notable instance of fasting in times of bereavement is found in the account of Abner's death, as recorded in the Second Book of Samuel.

Context of Abner's Death

Abner, the son of Ner, was a prominent military commander and a key figure in the power dynamics of Israel during the reign of King Saul and the early reign of King David. Initially serving as the commander of Saul's army, Abner played a crucial role in the conflict between the house of Saul and the house of David. After Saul's death, Abner initially supported Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, as king over Israel. However, due to a falling out with Ish-bosheth, Abner sought to transfer his allegiance to David, aiming to unite the kingdom under David's rule (2 Samuel 3:6-21).

Abner's death occurred under tragic circumstances. Joab, the commander of David's army, harbored a personal vendetta against Abner for the death of his brother Asahel, whom Abner had killed in self-defense during a battle (2 Samuel 2:18-23). Despite Abner's peaceful intentions and his efforts to broker peace between the divided factions of Israel, Joab deceitfully lured Abner into a private meeting and killed him in Hebron (2 Samuel 3:26-27).

David's Response and Fasting

King David's response to Abner's death was one of profound grief and public mourning. David's lamentation over Abner is recorded in 2 Samuel 3:31-39. David commanded Joab and all the people with him to tear their clothes, put on sackcloth, and mourn for Abner. David himself followed the bier, demonstrating his respect and sorrow for the fallen leader.

A significant aspect of David's mourning was his decision to fast. In 2 Samuel 3:35, it is noted: "Then all the people came and urged David to eat something while it was still day, but David took an oath, saying, 'May God punish me, and ever so severely, if I taste bread or anything else before the sun sets.'" This act of fasting was a powerful expression of David's grief and his desire to honor Abner's memory. It also served as a public declaration of David's innocence in Abner's death, distancing himself from the actions of Joab.

Theological Implications

Fasting in the context of bereavement, as exemplified by David, underscores the biblical understanding of fasting as a means of humbling oneself before God. It is an outward expression of an inward sorrow, a way to seek God's presence and comfort in times of deep personal loss. David's fasting also highlights the importance of integrity and justice, as he sought to demonstrate his own righteousness and the injustice of Abner's murder.

Moreover, David's actions reflect the communal aspect of mourning in ancient Israel. By leading the people in fasting and mourning, David united the nation in a shared expression of grief, fostering a sense of solidarity and collective lamentation.

Conclusion

The account of fasting in response to Abner's death provides a poignant example of how fasting functions as a spiritual discipline in times of bereavement. It serves as a reminder of the depth of human sorrow and the need for divine comfort, as well as the importance of justice and integrity in leadership. Through fasting, individuals and communities alike can express their grief, seek God's presence, and honor the memory of those who have passed.

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2 Samuel 3:35
And when all the people came to cause David to eat meat while it was yet day, David swore, saying, So do God to me, and more also, if I taste bread, or ought else, till the sun be down.
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