CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Samuel 25:3 His name was Nabal, and his wife's name was Abigail. She was an intelligent and beautiful woman, but her husband, a Calebite, was harsh and evil in his dealings.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_samuel/25-3.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/19/09_1Sa_25_03.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Samuel 25:3 - David, Nabal, and Abigail" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="His name was Nabal, and his wife's name was Abigail. She was an intelligent and beautiful woman, but her husband, a Calebite, was harsh and evil in his dealings." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_samuel/25-3.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_samuel/25-3.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_samuel/">1 Samuel</a> > <a href="/1_samuel/25.htm">Chapter 25</a> > Verse 3</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad3.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_samuel/25-2.htm" title="1 Samuel 25:2">◄</a> 1 Samuel 25:3 <a href="/1_samuel/25-4.htm" title="1 Samuel 25:4">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_samuel/25.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_samuel/25.htm">New International Version</a> His name was Nabal and his wife&#8217s name was Abigail. She was an intelligent and beautiful woman, but her husband was surly and mean in his dealings—he was a Calebite. <a href="/nlt/1_samuel/25.htm">New Living Translation</a> This man’s name was Nabal, and his wife, Abigail, was a sensible and beautiful woman. But Nabal, a descendant of Caleb, was crude and mean in all his dealings. <a href="/esv/1_samuel/25.htm">English Standard Version</a> Now the name of the man was Nabal, and the name of his wife Abigail. The woman was discerning and beautiful, but the man was harsh and badly behaved; he was a Calebite. <a href="/bsb/1_samuel/25.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> His name was Nabal, and his wife’s name was Abigail. She was an intelligent and beautiful woman, but her husband, a Calebite, was harsh and evil in his dealings. <a href="/kjv/1_samuel/25.htm">King James Bible</a> Now 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. <a href="/nkjv/1_samuel/25.htm">New King James Version</a> The name of the man was Nabal, and the name of his wife Abigail. And she was a woman of good understanding and beautiful appearance; but the man was harsh and evil in his doings. He was of the house of Caleb. <a href="/nasb_/1_samuel/25.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> (now the man’s name was Nabal, and his wife’s name was Abigail. And the woman was intelligent and beautiful in appearance, but the man was harsh and evil in his dealings, and he was a Calebite), <a href="/nasb/1_samuel/25.htm">NASB 1995</a> (now the man&#8217s name was Nabal, and his wife&#8217s name was Abigail. And the woman was intelligent and beautiful in appearance, but the man was harsh and evil in his dealings, and he was a Calebite), <a href="/nasb77/1_samuel/25.htm">NASB 1977 </a> (now the man’s name was Nabal, and his wife’s name was Abigail. And the woman was intelligent and beautiful in appearance, but the man was harsh and evil in his dealings, and he was a Calebite), <a href="/lsb/1_samuel/25.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> (now the man’s name was Nabal, and his wife’s name was Abigail. And the woman was good in insight and beautiful in appearance, but the man was harsh and evil in his dealings, and he was a Calebite), <a href="/amp/1_samuel/25.htm">Amplified Bible</a> (now the man’s name was Nabal and his wife’s name was Abigail. She was intelligent and beautiful in appearance, but the man was harsh and evil in his dealings; he was a Calebite). <a href="/csb/1_samuel/25.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> The man’s name was Nabal, and his wife’s name, Abigail. The woman was intelligent and beautiful, but the man, a Calebite, was harsh and evil in his dealings. <a href="/hcsb/1_samuel/25.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> The man&#8217s name was Nabal, and his wife&#8217s name, Abigail. The woman was intelligent and beautiful, but the man, a Calebite, was harsh and evil in his dealings. <a href="/asv/1_samuel/25.htm">American Standard Version</a> Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail; and the woman was 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. <a href="/erv/1_samuel/25.htm">English Revised Version</a> Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and the woman was 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. <a href="/gwt/1_samuel/25.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> This man's name was Nabal, and his wife's name was Abigail. She was sensible and beautiful, but he was harsh and mean. He was a descendant of Caleb. <a href="/isv/1_samuel/25.htm">International Standard Version</a> The man's name was Nabal and his wife's name was Abigail. The woman was intelligent and beautiful, while the man was harsh and wicked in his dealings. He was a descendant of Caleb. <a href="/msb/1_samuel/25.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> His name was Nabal, and his wife?s name was Abigail. She was an intelligent and beautiful woman, but her husband, a Calebite, was harsh and evil in his dealings. <a href="/net/1_samuel/25.htm">NET Bible</a> The man's name was Nabal, and his wife's name was Abigail. She was both wise and beautiful, but the man was harsh and his deeds were evil. He was a Calebite. <a href="/nheb/1_samuel/25.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail. And the woman was intelligent and beautiful, but the man was harsh and evil in his dealings; and the man was a Calebite. <a href="/wbt/1_samuel/25.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Now 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. <a href="/web/1_samuel/25.htm">World English Bible</a> Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail. This woman was intelligent and had a beautiful face; but the man was surly and evil in his doings. He was of the house of Caleb. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_samuel/25.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And the name of the man [is] Nabal, and the name of his wife [is] Abigail, and the woman [is] of good understanding, and of beautiful form, and the man [is] hard and evil [in his] doings; and he [is] a Calebite. <a href="/ylt/1_samuel/25.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And the name of the man is Nabal, and the name of his wife Abigail, and the woman is of good understanding, and of fair form, and the man is hard and evil in doings; and he is a Calebite. <a href="/slt/1_samuel/25.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And the name of the man Nabal; and his wife's name Abigail: and the woman good of understanding, and beautiful of form: and the man hard and evil of works; and he as his dog.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_samuel/25.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Now the name of the man was Nabal: and the name of his wife was Abigail. And she was a prudent and very comely woman, but her husband was churlish, and very bad and ill natured: and he was of the house of Caleb. <a href="/cpdv/1_samuel/25.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Now the name of this man was Nabal. And the name of his wife was Abigail. And she was a very prudent and beautiful woman. But her husband was hard-hearted, and very wicked, and malicious. And he was of the stock of Caleb. <a href="/nabre/1_samuel/25.htm">New American Bible</a> The man’s name was Nabal and his wife was Abigail. The woman was intelligent and attractive, but Nabal, a Calebite, was harsh and bad-mannered. <a href="/nrsvce/1_samuel/25.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Now the name of the man was Nabal, and the name of his wife Abigail. The woman was clever and beautiful, but the man was surly and mean; he was a Calebite.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_samuel/25.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife was Abigail; and she was a beautiful woman, and of a beautiful countenance; but the man Nabal was harsh and evil in his doings, and like a dog. <a href="/hpbt/1_samuel/25.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And the name of the man was Nabal, and the name of his wife was Abigal, and the woman was beautiful in her form and in her face, and the man Nabal was hard and evil in his deeds and behaved like a dog<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/1_samuel/25.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail; and the woman was of good understanding, and of a beautiful form; but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb. <a href="/sep/1_samuel/25.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And the man's name was Nabal, and his wife's name was Abigaia: and his wife was of good understanding and very beautiful in person: but the man was harsh, and evil in his doings, and the man was churlish. <a href="/parallel/1_samuel/25-3.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H8oQfYUMRZg?start=7315" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_samuel/25.htm">David, Nabal, and Abigail</a> 2Now there was a man in Maon whose business was in Carmel. He was a very wealthy man with a thousand goats and three thousand sheep, which he was shearing in Carmel. 3<a href="/hebrew/376.htm" title="376: hā·’îš (Art:: N-ms) -- Man. Contracted for 'enowsh; a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term.">His</a> <a href="/hebrew/8034.htm" title="8034: wə·šêm (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- A primitive word; an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character.">name</a> <a href="/hebrew/5037.htm" title="5037: nā·ḇāl (N-proper-ms) -- A man of Carmel. The same as nabal; dolt; Nabal, an Israelite.">was Nabal,</a> <a href="/hebrew/802.htm" title="802: ’iš·tōw (N-fsc:: 3ms) -- Woman, wife, female. Feminine of 'iysh or 'enowsh; irregular plural, nashiym; a woman.">and his wife’s</a> <a href="/hebrew/8034.htm" title="8034: wə·šêm (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- A primitive word; an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character.">name was</a> <a href="/hebrew/26.htm" title="26: ’ă·ḇi·ḡā·yil (N-proper-fs) -- Or shorter Abiygal; from 'ab and giyl; father of joy; Abigail or Abigal, the name of two Israelitesses.">Abigail.</a> <a href="/hebrew/2896.htm" title="2896: ṭō·w·ḇaṯ- (Adj-fsc) -- Pleasant, agreeable, good.">She was an intelligent</a> <a href="/hebrew/7922.htm" title="7922: śe·ḵel (N-ms) -- Prudence, insight. Or sekel; from sakal; intelligence; by implication, success."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3303.htm" title="3303: wî·p̄aṯ (Conj-w:: Adj-fsc) -- Fair, beautiful. From yaphah; beautiful.">and beautiful</a> <a href="/hebrew/8389.htm" title="8389: tō·’ar (N-ms) -- Outline, form. From ta'ar; outline, i.e. Figure or appearance."></a> <a href="/hebrew/802.htm" title="802: wə·hā·’iš·šāh (Conj-w, Art:: N-fs) -- Woman, wife, female. Feminine of 'iysh or 'enowsh; irregular plural, nashiym; a woman.">woman,</a> <a href="/hebrew/376.htm" title="376: wə·hā·’îš (Conj-w, Art:: N-ms) -- Man. Contracted for 'enowsh; a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term.">but her husband,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3820.htm" title="3820: ḵə·lib·bō (N-proper-ms) -- A form of lebab; the heart; also used very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything.">a Calebite,</a> <a href="/hebrew/7186.htm" title="7186: qā·šeh (Adj-ms) -- Hard, severe. From qashah; severe.">was harsh</a> <a href="/hebrew/7451.htm" title="7451: wə·ra‘ (Conj-w:: Adj-msc) -- Bad, evil. From ra'a'; bad or evil.">and evil</a> <a href="/hebrew/4611.htm" title="4611: ma·‘ă·lā·lîm (N-mp) -- A deed, practice. From alal; an act.">in his dealings.</a> <a href="/hebrew/1931.htm" title="1931: wə·hū (Conj-w:: Pro-3ms) -- He, she, it. "></a> 4While David was in the wilderness, he heard that Nabal was shearing sheep.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/proverbs/31-10.htm">Proverbs 31:10</a> A wife of noble character, who can find? She is far more precious than rubies. <a href="/2_samuel/20-1.htm">2 Samuel 20:1</a> Now a worthless man named Sheba son of Bichri, a Benjamite, happened to be there, and he blew the ram’s horn and shouted: “We have no share in David, no inheritance in Jesse’s son. Every man to his tent, O Israel!” <a href="/1_kings/21-25.htm">1 Kings 21:25</a> (Surely there was never one like Ahab, who sold himself to do evil in the sight of the LORD, incited by his wife Jezebel. <a href="/proverbs/18-22.htm">Proverbs 18:22</a> He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD. <a href="/proverbs/19-14.htm">Proverbs 19:14</a> Houses and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD. <a href="/proverbs/21-9.htm">Proverbs 21:9</a> Better to live on a corner of the roof than to share a house with a quarrelsome wife. <a href="/proverbs/21-19.htm">Proverbs 21:19</a> Better to live in the desert than with a contentious and ill-tempered wife. <a href="/proverbs/25-24.htm">Proverbs 25:24</a> Better to live on a corner of the roof than to share a house with a quarrelsome wife. <a href="/proverbs/27-15.htm">Proverbs 27:15</a> A constant dripping on a rainy day and a contentious woman are alike— <a href="/proverbs/31-30.htm">Proverbs 31:30</a> Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-26.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:26</a> And I find more bitter than death the woman who is a snare, whose heart is a net, and whose hands are chains. The man who pleases God escapes her, but the sinner is ensnared. <a href="/matthew/5-9.htm">Matthew 5:9</a> Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. <a href="/luke/6-45.htm">Luke 6:45</a> The good man brings good things out of the good treasure of his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil treasure of his heart. For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. <a href="/romans/12-18.htm">Romans 12:18</a> If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. <a href="/1_corinthians/7-10.htm">1 Corinthians 7:10-11</a> To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. / But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Now 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.good<a href="/proverbs/14-1.htm">Proverbs 14:1</a> Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.<a href="/proverbs/31-26.htm">Proverbs 31:26,30,31</a> She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness… was churlish<a href="/1_samuel/25-10.htm">1 Samuel 25:10,11,17</a> And Nabal answered David's servants, and said, Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? there be many servants now a days that break away every man from his master… <a href="/psalms/10-3.htm">Psalm 10:3</a> For the wicked boasteth of his heart's desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the LORD abhorreth.<a href="/isaiah/32-5.htm">Isaiah 32:5-7</a> The vile person shall be no more called liberal, nor the churl said to be bountiful… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_chronicles/11-18.htm">Abigail</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/3-1.htm">Ab'igail</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-42.htm">Appearance</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-42.htm">Beautiful</a> <a href="/judges/1-20.htm">Caleb</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-42.htm">Countenance</a> <a href="/1_samuel/12-4.htm">Cruel</a> <a href="/1_samuel/2-23.htm">Dealings</a> <a href="/judges/2-19.htm">Doings</a> <a href="/1_samuel/24-17.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-52.htm">Hard</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/28-59.htm">Harsh</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-1.htm">House</a> <a href="/1_samuel/4-21.htm">Husband</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/1-13.htm">Intelligent</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-7.htm">Looks</a> <a href="/1_samuel/4-14.htm">Mean</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-3.htm">Nabal</a> <a href="/1_samuel/18-5.htm">Pleasing</a> <a href="/judges/7-15.htm">Sense</a> <a href="/judges/13-18.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/1_samuel/18-14.htm">Ways</a> <a href="/1_samuel/19-11.htm">Wife</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-50.htm">Wife's</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_samuel/25-14.htm">Abigail</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-14.htm">Ab'igail</a> <a href="/1_samuel/28-14.htm">Appearance</a> <a href="/2_samuel/11-2.htm">Beautiful</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-14.htm">Caleb</a> <a href="/2_samuel/14-27.htm">Countenance</a> <a href="/1_kings/11-25.htm">Cruel</a> <a href="/2_samuel/7-14.htm">Dealings</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/16-8.htm">Doings</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-7.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-2.htm">Hard</a> <a href="/1_kings/12-4.htm">Harsh</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-6.htm">House</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-19.htm">Husband</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/15-22.htm">Intelligent</a> <a href="/job/7-2.htm">Looks</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-24.htm">Mean</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-4.htm">Nabal</a> <a href="/1_samuel/29-9.htm">Pleasing</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-33.htm">Sense</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-9.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/2_samuel/22-22.htm">Ways</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-14.htm">Wife</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/1-50.htm">Wife's</a><div class="vheading2">1 Samuel 25</div>1. <a href="/1_samuel/25-1.htm">Samuel dies</a> 2. <a href="/1_samuel/25-2.htm">David in Paran sends to Nabal</a> 10. <a href="/1_samuel/25-10.htm">Provoked by Nabal's rudeness, he minds to destroy him</a> 14. <a href="/1_samuel/25-14.htm">Abigail understanding thereof</a> 18. <a href="/1_samuel/25-18.htm">takes a present</a> 23. <a href="/1_samuel/25-23.htm">and by her wisdom</a> 32. <a href="/1_samuel/25-32.htm">pacifies David</a> 36. <a href="/1_samuel/25-36.htm">Nabal hearing thereof, dies</a> 39. <a href="/1_samuel/25-39.htm">David takes Abigail and Ahinoam to be his wives</a> 44. <a href="/1_samuel/25-44.htm">Michal is given to Phalti</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_samuel/25.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_samuel/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_samuel/25.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>His name was Nabal Nabal's name means "fool" or "senseless" in Hebrew, which is significant given his actions in the narrative. This name may reflect his character or be a literary device used to highlight his foolishness. In biblical times, names often held prophetic or descriptive significance, and Nabal's behavior aligns with the negative connotations of his name.and his wife’s name was Abigail. Abigail means "my father’s joy" or "source of joy." Her name contrasts sharply with Nabal's, suggesting her positive attributes. Abigail's role in the story is pivotal, as she acts with wisdom and discernment, qualities that are highly valued in biblical literature. Her actions later in the chapter demonstrate her ability to navigate difficult situations with grace and intelligence.She was an intelligent and beautiful woman, The description of Abigail as both intelligent and beautiful is noteworthy. In the biblical context, beauty is often mentioned alongside wisdom to indicate a person of exceptional character and capability. Abigail's intelligence is demonstrated in her quick and effective response to David's impending attack, showcasing her as a woman of action and insight.but her husband, a Calebite, Nabal is identified as a Calebite, linking him to the tribe of Judah through Caleb, a prominent figure known for his faithfulness and courage (<a href="/numbers/13-30.htm">Numbers 13:30</a>). This connection may serve to highlight the contrast between Nabal's character and the noble heritage of his ancestor. The Calebites were known for their strength and loyalty, traits that Nabal does not exhibit.was harsh and evil in his dealings. Nabal's harshness and evil dealings are central to the conflict in the narrative. His behavior is characterized by a lack of hospitality and generosity, which were highly valued in ancient Near Eastern culture. This sets the stage for the confrontation with David, who had protected Nabal's shepherds. Nabal's actions are in stark contrast to the biblical call for righteousness and kindness, as seen in passages like <a href="/micah/6-8.htm">Micah 6:8</a>. His conduct serves as a foil to Abigail's wisdom and righteousness, further emphasizing the moral lessons of the story.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/n/nabal.htm">Nabal</a> A wealthy but harsh and evil man, described as a Calebite. His name means "fool" in Hebrew, which is reflective of his character and actions throughout the account. 2. <a href="/topical/a/abigail.htm">Abigail</a> Nabal's wife, noted for her intelligence and beauty. Her name means "my father's joy" in Hebrew, and she plays a crucial role in the account by acting wisely and diplomatically. 3. <a href="/topical/c/calebite.htm">Calebite</a> Refers to Nabal's lineage, indicating he is a descendant of Caleb, a notable figure from the tribe of Judah known for his faithfulness and courage. 4. <a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a> Although not mentioned in this specific verse, David is a central figure in the chapter. He is on the run from King Saul and seeks provisions from Nabal, which sets the stage for the events that follow. 5. <a href="/topical/c/carmel.htm">Carmel</a> The region where Nabal's property is located. It is a fertile area, which contributes to Nabal's wealth.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_and_beauty.htm">Wisdom and Beauty</a> Abigail's intelligence and beauty are highlighted, suggesting that true beauty is complemented by wisdom and good character. Christians are encouraged to cultivate inner beauty through wisdom and understanding. <a href="/topical/c/contrasting_characters.htm">Contrasting Characters</a> The stark contrast between Nabal and Abigail serves as a reminder of the impact of our character on those around us. Believers are called to reflect Christ-like character in their dealings with others. <a href="/topical/p/peacemaking.htm">Peacemaking</a> Abigail's role as a peacemaker foreshadows the New Testament call for believers to be peacemakers. Her actions demonstrate the power of wisdom and diplomacy in resolving conflicts. <a href="/topical/c/consequences_of_foolishness.htm">Consequences of Foolishness</a> Nabal's foolishness and harshness lead to negative consequences, illustrating the biblical principle that foolishness often results in destruction. This serves as a warning to seek wisdom and avoid folly.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_samuel_25.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 25</a> <a href="/q/evidence_for_nabal,_abigail,_estate.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 – Is there any historical or archaeological evidence confirming Nabal, Abigail, or their estate’s existence? </a> <a href="/q/abigail's_role_in_david's_life.htm">What role did Abigail play in David's life?</a> <a href="/q/who_was_nabal_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Nabal in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_share_good_news_with_the_poor.htm">Who is Ahinoam of Jezreel?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_samuel/25.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) Nabal.--The word "Nabal" means "fool," connected with naval, to fade away. The name was probably a nickname given him on account of his well-known stubborn folly.Abigail.--The famous beautiful woman who afterwards became David's wife seems to have been, as Stanley calls her, "the good angel of the household" of the ill-starred, boorish southern chieftain. Her name, too, which signifies "whose father is joy," was most likely given her by the villagers on her husband's estate, as expressive of her sunny, gladness-bringing presence. Her early training, and the question respecting the sources whence she derived her wisdom and deep, far-sighted piety--apparently far in advance of her age--is discussed further on in the chapter.The house of Caleb.--In the original Kalibi, i.e., of the house or family of Caleb. Thus the word is read in the Hebrew Bible. There is, however, an alternative reading--K'libi--with different vowel-points in the written text, which would be read "according to his heart." Josephus, the LXX., and the Arabic and Syriac Versions understand it as derived from kelev, a dog, and render--"and he was a cynical man" (that is, "one of a dog-like character"--anthr?pos keunikos). The Chaldee "e domo Caleb," and Vulgate "de genero Caleb," follow the text which is read in the Hebrew Bible, and translated in our version, "of the house of Caleb," which seems, on the whole, the preferable and most likely meaning.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_samuel/25.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 3. - Nabal, the word rendered fool in <a href="/psalms/14-1.htm">Psalm 14:1</a>; literally, "flat," "vapid." Abigail means "one who is the cause (father) of joy," i.e. one who gives joy. She, with her bright understanding and beautiful person (the Hebrew word takes in much more than the countenance; see <a href="/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18</a>, where it is rendered comely person), is in contrast with the coarse, churlish man who was her husband. His name was either one which he had acquired by his conduct, or if given him by his parents shows that they were clownish people. He was of the house of Caleb. The written text has, "he was according to his heart," celibbo, i.e. a self-willed man, or one whose rude exterior answered to his inner nature; but there are linguistic difficulties in the way of this reading, and the Kri is probably right in correcting calibbi, a Calebite, a descendant of Caleb, who had large possessions assigned him in the neighbourhood of Hebron (<a href="/joshua/15-13.htm">Joshua 15:13-19</a>), which is only ten miles northwest of Carmel. The versions support the Kri, though the Syriac and Septuagint render doglike - one who, like a dog, though he has plenty, yet grudges others. The meaning of the name Caleb is literally "a dog." <a href="/commentaries/1_samuel/25-3.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>His הָאִישׁ֙ (hā·’îš) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_376.htm">Strong's 376: </a> A man as an individual, a male person name וְשֵׁ֤ם (wə·šêm) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8034.htm">Strong's 8034: </a> A name was Nabal, נָבָ֔ל (nā·ḇāl) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5037.htm">Strong's 5037: </a> Nabal -- a man of Carmel and his wife’s אִשְׁתּ֖וֹ (’iš·tōw) Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_802.htm">Strong's 802: </a> Woman, wife, female name [was] וְשֵׁ֥ם (wə·šêm) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8034.htm">Strong's 8034: </a> A name Abigail. אֲבִגָ֑יִל (’ă·ḇi·ḡā·yil) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_26.htm">Strong's 26: </a> Abigail -- 'my father is joy', two Israelite women She was an intelligent טֽוֹבַת־ (ṭō·w·ḇaṯ-) Adjective - feminine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2896.htm">Strong's 2896: </a> Pleasant, agreeable, good and beautiful וִ֣יפַת (wî·p̄aṯ) Conjunctive waw | Adjective - feminine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3303.htm">Strong's 3303: </a> Fair, beautiful woman, וְהָאִשָּׁ֤ה (wə·hā·’iš·šāh) Conjunctive waw, Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_802.htm">Strong's 802: </a> Woman, wife, female but her husband, וְהָאִ֥ישׁ (wə·hā·’îš) Conjunctive waw, Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_376.htm">Strong's 376: </a> A man as an individual, a male person a Calebite, כָלִבִּֽי׃ (ḵā·lib·bî) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3820.htm">Strong's 3820: </a> The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centre was harsh קָשֶׁ֛ה (qā·šeh) Adjective - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7186.htm">Strong's 7186: </a> Hard, severe and evil וְרַ֥ע (wə·ra‘) Conjunctive waw | Adjective - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7451.htm">Strong's 7451: </a> Bad, evil in his dealings. מַעֲלָלִ֖ים (ma·‘ă·lā·lîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4611.htm">Strong's 4611: </a> A deed, practice <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_samuel/25-3.htm">1 Samuel 25:3 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-3.htm">OT History: 1 Samuel 25:3 Now the name of the man was (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_samuel/25-2.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Samuel 25:2"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Samuel 25:2" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_samuel/25-4.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Samuel 25:4"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Samuel 25:4" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>