1Sa 25:3 | KingComments | STEP | Maon is a city in Judah, in the area of Carmel – also a wilderness is called Maon ( ). The eye is first turned to someone who has his business in that area. Before his name is mentioned, the man is said to be “very rich”. It also says where he is and what is happening. He has a large flock of sheep and goats and is busy stripping the sheep of their wool. The name “Nabal” means “fool”. He is what his name says, because he does not take God into account at all. This is exactly the characteristic of a fool, for he says “in his heart, “There is no God”” ( ). He is a picture of the wicked people who do not think of God. There is no trace of wisdom in someone who is a fool. His wife is called “Abigail”, which means “father of joy” or “whose father rejoices”. She is a complete opposite of her husband. With her are mind and insight, which she has not lost in this marriage. She is also a beautiful appearance. The fact that she is ever attached to such a man in marriage will not have been her own choice but will have been arranged for her. Of Nabal is also said he is “harsh and evil in [his] dealings”. Nabal’s ancestor is Caleb. Nabal inherited the possessions of Caleb, but not his faith and dedication. He does not walk in the spirit of his ancestor. We would never have heard of Nabal if he had not come into contact with David, even if only for a moment.

‏ 1 Samuel 25:3

Nabal and Abigail

Maon is a city in Judah, in the area of Carmel – also a wilderness is called Maon (1Sam 23:24). The eye is first turned to someone who has his business in that area. Before his name is mentioned, the man is said to be “very rich”. It also says where he is and what is happening. He has a large flock of sheep and goats and is busy stripping the sheep of their wool.

The name “Nabal” means “fool”. He is what his name says, because he does not take God into account at all. This is exactly the characteristic of a fool, for he says “in his heart, “There is no God”” (Psa 14:1a). He is a picture of the wicked people who do not think of God. There is no trace of wisdom in someone who is a fool.

His wife is called “Abigail”, which means “father of joy” or “whose father rejoices”. She is a complete opposite of her husband. With her are mind and insight, which she has not lost in this marriage. She is also a beautiful appearance. The fact that she is ever attached to such a man in marriage will not have been her own choice but will have been arranged for her.

Of Nabal is also said he is “harsh and evil in [his] dealings”. Nabal’s ancestor is Caleb. Nabal inherited the possessions of Caleb, but not his faith and dedication. He does not walk in the spirit of his ancestor. We would never have heard of Nabal if he had not come into contact with David, even if only for a moment.