Abigail

Etymology

From the Hebrew 'avi' (my father) and 'gil' (joy, rejoicing). Literally 'my father is joy' or 'my father rejoices'. Some scholars read it as 'source of joy' — the one who causes the father to rejoice.

Who they were

Abigail is introduced in one of the Old Testament's most vivid narratives. She was married to Nabal, a wealthy but harsh and foolish man whose name literally means 'fool.' When David and his men — who had been protecting Nabal's shepherds in the wilderness — asked for provisions and were rudely refused, David swore to kill every male in Nabal's household. Abigail acted with extraordinary speed and wisdom. Without telling her husband, she loaded donkeys with bread, wine, grain, raisins, and meat, rode out to meet David, and delivered one of the most eloquent speeches in the Old Testament. She took responsibility for her husband's insult, appealed to David's future as king, and warned him that bloodshed would be a burden on his conscience. David was stopped in his tracks. He said to her: 'Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, who has sent you today to meet me. May you be blessed for your good judgment and for keeping me from bloodshed.' Ten days later Nabal died, and David married Abigail. The text describes her as both intelligent and beautiful — and it is her intelligence that the narrative celebrates most.

Family

Spouse

Nabal (first), David (second)

Children

Chileab (also called Daniel)

Character qualities

• Quick thinking
• Diplomatic eloquence
• Courage under threat
• Practical wisdom
• Humility

Key verse

1 Samuel 25:32-33

Where they appear

Themes

Variants & related forms

Abigael · Abigayle · Abbie · Abbey · Gail · Gael

Related names