Abner
Abner, son of Ner, was the commander of Saul’s army and later sought a covenant with David.
Abner in the Bible is the commander of Saul’s army, identified as the son of Ner and Saul’s uncle when first named at 1 Samuel 14:50. He is named in at least 52 verses across 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, and 1 Chronicles.
When David returned after striking the Philistine, Abner brought him before Saul (1 Samuel 17:57). Later, David addressed Abner while Saul’s camp was asleep and challenged him for not guarding the king (1 Samuel 26:14; 1 Samuel 26:15).
After Saul’s death, Abner took Ish-bosheth to Mahanaim (2 Samuel 2:8). In a conflict involving Abner and David’s servants, Asahel pursued Abner; after Asahel refused Abner’s warning to turn aside, Abner struck him with a spear and Asahel died (2 Samuel 2:19; 2 Samuel 2:22; 2 Samuel 2:23). Abner later sent messengers to David seeking a covenant and offering support to turn all Israel to him (2 Samuel 3:12).
Key verses
Across Scripture
1 Samuel · 2 Samuel · 1 Kings · 1 Chronicles