Who was Abner?

Commander of Saul's army

The story of Abner

Abner - Commander
Abner - Commander
Commander

Abner was a biblical figure who was the commander of Saul's army and the cousin of Saul's son, Jonathan. He was the son of Ner and the brother of Kish. Abner is best known for his role in the civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David. He initially supported Saul's house, but eventually switched sides and supported David. He was instrumental in helping David become king of Israel. Abner was killed by Joab, the commander of David's army, in revenge for the death of his brother, Asahel. Abner's death marked the end of the civil war and the beginning of David's reign. Abner is remembered as a brave and loyal soldier who was willing to switch sides in order to do what he believed was right.

Name meaning

"Father of light"

Name origin

Hebrew

Role

Commander

First mention

1 Samuel 14:50

Appearances in the Bible

53 mentions

Abner in the Bible

Explore all 10 chapters where Abner appears

1 Samuel

Chapter 14

Jonathan and David's Friendship

David and Jonathan, Saul's son, form a close friendship despite Saul's attempts to harm David.

Read Chapter

1 Samuel

Chapter 17

David and Goliath

David defeats the giant Philistine warrior Goliath, establishing himself as a great military leader.

Read Chapter

1 Samuel

Chapter 20

Jonathan Warns David

David and Jonathan renew their friendship and make a covenant with each other.

Read Chapter

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 4

Death of Ish-bosheth

Ish-bosheth, Saul's son and rival to David's rule, is murdered, solidifying David's reign.

Read Chapter

1 Kings

Chapter 2

David's Last Days

David reflects on his life and makes final arrangements before his death.

Read Chapter

1 Chronicles

Chapter 26

Duties of Gatekeepers, Treasurers, and Other Levites

The division of the priests and Levites into groups for the service of the temple, including the organization of musicia...

Read Chapter

1 Chronicles

Chapter 27

Leaders of Military Divisions and Civil Administrations

The division of the priests and Levites into groups for the service of the temple, including the organization of musicia...

Read Chapter

Showing all 10 chapter appearances