1 Samuel 25:42

And Abigail hasted, and arose, and rode upon an ass, with five damsels of hers that went after her; and she went after the messengers of David, and became his wife.

And Abigail {H26} hasted {H4116}, and arose {H6965}, and rode {H7392} upon an ass {H2543}, with five {H2568} damsels {H5291} of hers that went {H1980} after {H7272} her; and she went {H3212} after {H310} the messengers {H4397} of David {H1732}, and became his wife {H802}.

Avigayil then hurried, set out and rode off on a donkey, with five of her female servants following her; she went after David's messengers; and she became his wife.

So Abigail hurried and got on a donkey, and attended by five of her maidens, she followed Davidโ€™s messengers and became his wife.

And Abigail hasted, and arose, and rode upon an ass, with five damsels of hers that followed her; and she went after the messengers of David, and became his wife.

Commentary

1 Samuel 25:42 (KJV) describes the immediate and humble response of Abigail to David's proposal of marriage, marking a significant turning point in her life and in David's journey towards kingship. This verse highlights her swift obedience and the swift fulfillment of David's word after the dramatic events involving her former husband, Nabal.

Context

This verse concludes the narrative arc of Abigail, David, and Nabal in 1 Samuel chapter 25. Prior to this, David, while in exile, had protected Nabal's shepherds. When David requested provisions from Nabal, Nabal insultingly refused. David, in anger, set out to destroy Nabal and his household. Abigail, Nabal's wise and discerning wife, intervened without her husband's knowledge, bringing provisions and humbly appealing to David, averting a bloodbath. Upon hearing what Abigail had done, Nabal suffered a stroke and died about ten days later. David, recognizing God's hand in Nabal's death and Abigail's wisdom, sent for her to become his wife. This verse details her prompt acceptance and departure.

Key Themes

  • Immediate Obedience: Abigail's "hasted, and arose" demonstrates her readiness and willingness to accept David's proposal. This quick action reflects her deep understanding of God's hand in the situation and her respect for David as a future leader.
  • Divine Providence and Justice: The swift turn of events, from Nabal's death to David's proposal, underscores God's providential justice. Abigail's elevation is a direct result of her wisdom and God's plan for David.
  • Elevation and New Beginning: Abigail moves from being the wife of a "churlish and evil" man to becoming the wife of God's anointed, the future king of Israel. This signifies a profound change in status and purpose, reflecting God's ability to elevate the humble and wise. Her journey from Nabal's household to David's is a powerful symbol of new beginnings and divine favor.
  • Abigail's Character: Even in her elevation, Abigail maintains her humility and practical nature, riding on an ass and accompanied by her damsels, not a grand procession. Her character, as introduced in 1 Samuel 25:3 as a woman of "good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance," is further exemplified by her swift and dignified response.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew verb for "hasted" (miharah, ืžึดื”ึฒืจึธื”) implies a sense of urgency and eagerness, emphasizing her immediate and willing response to David's messengers. It's not a reluctant departure but a swift, decisive action.
  • The mention of "five damsels" (na'aroteyha, ื ึทืขึฒืจึนืชึถื™ื”ึธ) suggests her status and the practicalities of setting up a new household, but also that she was prepared to leave her former life behind completely.

Practical Application

Abigail's story encourages believers to respond with readiness and faith to God's calling and leading in their lives. Her example teaches the value of discernment, humility, and prompt obedience, which can lead to unexpected blessings and elevations. Just as God prepared David for kingship, He also prepares and positions those who are faithful and wise for their divine purposes. Her willingness to leave her past behind for a new future with David serves as a powerful reminder of trusting God's plan for our lives, even when it involves significant change.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 24:61

    And Rebekah arose, and her damsels, and they rode upon the camels, and followed the man: and the servant took Rebekah, and went his way.

  • Genesis 24:67

    And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his mother's [death].

  • Psalms 45:10

    ยถ Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine ear; forget also thine own people, and thy father's house;

  • Psalms 45:11

    So shall the king greatly desire thy beauty: for he [is] thy Lord; and worship thou him.
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