Topical Encyclopedia Nabal is a biblical figure whose account is recounted in 1 Samuel 25. He is often cited as an archetype of selfishness and foolishness, serving as a cautionary tale about the perils of self-centeredness and lack of discernment. Nabal's narrative is set during the time of David's fugitive years, when David was fleeing from King Saul.Background and Character Nabal was a wealthy man from Maon, with property in Carmel. He is described as "very wealthy, owning a thousand goats and three thousand sheep" (1 Samuel 25:2). Despite his material wealth, Nabal's character is portrayed negatively. His name itself means "fool," and he is described as "harsh and evil in his dealings" (1 Samuel 25:3). In contrast, his wife Abigail is depicted as "intelligent and beautiful" (1 Samuel 25:3), highlighting the disparity between their characters. The Incident with David During the shearing of his sheep, a time of festivity and abundance, David sent ten young men to greet Nabal and request provisions. David's men had previously protected Nabal's shepherds and flocks in the wilderness, ensuring their safety. David's message was courteous and respectful, asking for whatever Nabal could spare during this time of celebration (1 Samuel 25:6-8). Nabal's response was dismissive and insulting. He questioned David's identity and legitimacy, saying, "Who is David? Who is this son of Jesse? Many servants these days are breaking away from their masters" (1 Samuel 25:10). Nabal refused to share his provisions, demonstrating his selfishness and lack of gratitude. Abigail's Intervention Abigail, recognizing the danger of her husband's actions, acted swiftly and wisely. She prepared a generous gift of food and wine and went to meet David, without informing Nabal. Abigail's intervention is marked by humility and diplomacy. She acknowledged David's future as the leader of Israel and sought to avert bloodshed by taking responsibility for her husband's folly (1 Samuel 25:18-31). David, moved by Abigail's wisdom and generosity, accepted her gift and relented from his plan to destroy Nabal and his household. He praised God for sending Abigail to prevent him from shedding blood and avenging himself (1 Samuel 25:32-35). Nabal's Demise When Abigail returned home, she found Nabal feasting and drunk. She waited until the next morning to inform him of the events. Upon hearing what had transpired, Nabal's heart "died within him, and he became like a stone" (1 Samuel 25:37). About ten days later, the Lord struck Nabal, and he died (1 Samuel 25:38). Lessons from Nabal's Story Nabal's account serves as a powerful illustration of the destructive nature of selfishness. His refusal to share his abundance, despite the protection he had received, highlights a lack of gratitude and community spirit. His inability to recognize David's future role in God's plan further underscores his foolishness. Nabal's demise is a reminder of the consequences of living a life centered on self-interest and disregard for others. The contrast between Nabal and Abigail also emphasizes the value of wisdom, humility, and generosity. Abigail's actions not only saved her household but also aligned with God's purposes, demonstrating the blessings that come from selflessness and discernment. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 25:3,11Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Lii. Concerning Hypocrisy, Worldly Anxiety, Watchfulness, and his ... Saul Rejected Christian Sympathy The Bright Dawn of a Reign Letter xvi. Charity. Resources What does the Bible say about selfishness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (Philippians 2:3)? | GotQuestions.org Is it wrong for parents to select the gender of their children, such as through Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)? | GotQuestions.org Selfishness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Selfishness: All Men Addicted To Selfishness: Characteristic of the Last Days Selfishness: Contrary to the Law of God Selfishness: Especially Forbidden to Saints Selfishness: Exhibited in Being Lovers of Ourselves Selfishness: Exhibited in Living to Ourselves Selfishness: Exhibited in Neglect of the Poor Selfishness: Exhibited in Performing Duty for Reward Selfishness: Exhibited in Pleasing Ourselves Selfishness: Exhibited in Seeking After Gain Selfishness: Exhibited in Seeking Our Own Selfishness: Exhibited in Seeking Undue Precedence Selfishness: Exhibited in Serving God for Reward Selfishness: General Scriptures Concerning Selfishness: Inconsistent With Christian Love Selfishness: Inconsistent With Communion of Saints Selfishness: Ministers should be Devoid of Selfishness: Saints Falsely Accused of Selfishness: The Example of Christ Condemns Selfishness: The Love of Christ should Constrain Us to Avoid Related Terms |