Who Was Abital in the Bible?

Woman Living at the Time of the United Monarchy

Abital is a relatively obscure figure in the Bible, mentioned during the period of the United Monarchy. Her name appears in the historical books of the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Samuel 3:4 and 1 Chronicles 3:3. She is identified as one of King David’s wives and the mother of Shephatiah.

Biblical Context and Significance

Abital’s story is brief and primarily focuses on her familial connections. Her name, Abital, comes from the Hebrew אַבִּיטַל, meaning “my father is dew.” This could symbolize freshness and blessing, as dew was considered a sign of divine favor and sustenance in the arid climate of the ancient Near East.

2 Samuel 3:4 states: “And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital.”
1 Chronicles 3:3 reiterates her position: “The fifth was Shephatiah, the son of Abital; the sixth was Ithream, by Eglah his wife.”

These passages place Abital within the larger narrative of King David’s complex family dynamics. David’s multiple marriages and numerous children reflect the cultural norms of the time but also highlight deviations from God’s ideal design for marriage.

Biblical Perspective on Marriage

From a conservative theological viewpoint, the Bible presents marriage as a sacred covenant between one man and one woman. Genesis 2:24 establishes this foundational principle: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” Jesus reaffirms this in Matthew 19:5-6: “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”

While David is described as a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), his multiple marriages were a departure from this divine ideal. These marriages often led to familial strife and political intrigue, underscoring the complexities of his reign and personal life.

Lessons for the Modern Christian

Abital’s brief mention in the Bible offers several lessons for contemporary believers:

1. Understanding Cultural Context: Recognizing that ancient practices, such as polygamy, were common helps modern readers appreciate the cultural backdrop of biblical narratives without endorsing those practices.
2. The Imperfection of Biblical Heroes: Figures like King David, despite their significant contributions to God’s plan, had flaws and made mistakes. This reminds Christians that God’s grace is sufficient for all, regardless of their past.
3. God’s Ideal for Marriage: Abital’s story, set against the broader narrative of David’s life, underscores the importance of adhering to God’s design for marriage as a lifelong, monogamous union.

Connection to a Loving God

Abital’s inclusion in the Bible, though brief, serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and involvement in the lives of His people. Her story is a small piece of the larger mosaic of God’s redemptive plan, showing that every individual has a role in God’s grand narrative.

The Bible, through characters like Abital, illustrates God’s grace and patience. Despite human failures and societal norms, God’s love remains steadfast. Romans 8:38-39 assures believers of this unchanging love: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Connection to Jesus Christ

Abital’s connection to King David indirectly ties her to the lineage of Jesus Christ. David’s lineage is significant in the Bible as it leads to the birth of Jesus, the Messiah, fulfilling the prophecy that the Savior would come from David’s line (Isaiah 11:1, Matthew 1:1-16).

Jesus’ genealogy, as recorded in Matthew 1, includes many figures with complex and imperfect lives, showcasing God’s ability to bring redemption through flawed humanity. This connection highlights the theme of redemption that runs throughout the Bible, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

Abital’s mention in the Bible, though minimal, contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical history. Her story, intertwined with King David’s, provides modern Christians with valuable insights into God’s design for marriage, the importance of cultural context, and the overarching narrative of God’s redemptive plan. By studying characters like Abital, believers can deepen their understanding of Scripture and draw closer to God’s heart, recognizing His unending love and grace in their own lives.