Who was Abishai?

Valiant warrior in David's army.

The story of Abishai

Abishai - Commander
Abishai - Commander
Commander

Abishai was a biblical figure who was the son of Zeruiah, the sister of King David. He was the brother of Joab and Asahel, and was one of David's chief officers. Abishai was known for his bravery and loyalty to David, and was often called upon to lead the army in battle. He was also known for his loyalty to his brother Joab, and was willing to fight alongside him in battle. Abishai was present at the battle of Mount Gilboa, where he fought alongside Joab and Asahel against the Philistines. He was also present at the battle of the Valley of Salt, where he killed 18,000 Edomites. Abishai was also present at the battle of the Red Sea, where he helped to defeat the Amalekites. Abishai is best known for his bravery and loyalty to David and his brothers. He was willing to fight alongside them in battle, and was often called upon to lead the army. He was also known for his loyalty to his brother Joab, and was willing to fight alongside him in battle. Abishai was a faithful servant of David, and his loyalty and bravery were an example to all.

Name meaning

"my father is a gift" or "gift of my father"

Name origin

Hebrew

Role

Commander

First mention

1 Samuel 26:6

Appearances in the Bible

24 mentions

Family

Relatives of Abishai

Abishai in the Bible

Explore all 14 chapters where Abishai appears

1 Samuel

Chapter 26

David Spares Saul Again

David encounters Saul again and spares his life for a second time.

Read Chapter

2 Samuel

Chapter 2

David's Victory Over the House of Saul

David defeats the remnants of Saul's family and consolidates his rule over all of Israel.

Read Chapter

2 Samuel

Chapter 3

The Rise of Absalom

Absalom, David's son, begins to rebel against his father and gains a following.

Read Chapter

2 Samuel

Chapter 10

Defeat of Ammon and Syria

David defeats the armies of Ammon and Syria.

Read Chapter

2 Samuel

Chapter 16

Shimei Curses David

Shimei curses David as he flees from Absalom's rebellion.

Read Chapter

2 Samuel

Chapter 18

The Death of Absalom

Absalom is killed in battle against David's forces, leading to David's great mourning.

Read Chapter

2 Samuel

Chapter 19

David's Return to Jerusalem

David returns to Jerusalem and is reconciled with his subjects.

Read Chapter

2 Samuel

Chapter 20

The Rebellion of Sheba

Sheba leads a rebellion against David, but is eventually defeated.

Read Chapter

2 Samuel

Chapter 21

The Gibeonites Avenged

David takes actions to atone for Saul's violation of a covenant with the Gibeonites.

Read Chapter

2 Samuel

Chapter 23

The Last Words of David

David speaks his final words, expressing confidence in God's sovereignty and calling on future generations to trust in h...

Read Chapter

1 Chronicles

Chapter 2

Genealogy of David

A genealogy of each of the twelve tribes of Israel, detailing their family lineages and populations.

Read Chapter

1 Chronicles

Chapter 11

David Anointed King, Conquests, and Mighty Men

David becomes king over all Israel, establishing his reign in Jerusalem.

Read Chapter

1 Chronicles

Chapter 18

David's Military Successes

David's reign, including his administration and building projects, and the reign of his son Solomon.

Read Chapter

1 Chronicles

Chapter 19

Ammonites and Syrians Defeated

David's reign, including his administration and building projects, and the reign of his son Solomon.

Read Chapter

Showing all 14 chapter appearances