Abner

Abner was the son of Ner and the cousin of King Saul, Israel's first monarch. He served as the commander of Saul's army (1 Samuel 14:50-51). Abner was a prominent figure during Saul's reign and demonstrated his loyalty to the king, as seen in his interactions with David (1 Samuel 17:55-57; 20:25; 26:5-15).

After Saul's death, Abner supported Saul's son Ish-bosheth as king over Israel, while David reigned over Judah (2 Samuel 2:8-10). During this time, there was a long war between the houses of Saul and David (2 Samuel 3:1). Abner led Ish-bosheth's forces against David's army, commanded by Joab (2 Samuel 2:12-17). In a battle at Gibeon, Abner killed Joab's brother Asahel, who had pursued him (2 Samuel 2:18-23).

Later, Abner defected to David after a dispute with Ish-bosheth (2 Samuel 3:6-21). He worked to transfer the kingdom to David and made an agreement with him (2 Samuel 3:12-21). However, Joab, seeking revenge for his brother's death, murdered Abner (2 Samuel 3:22-27). David mourned Abner's death and declared his innocence in the matter (2 Samuel 3:28-39).

Abner's defection and death weakened Ish-bosheth's position, and he was eventually assassinated (2 Samuel 4:1-8). This paved the way for David to become king over all Israel (2 Samuel 5:1-5). David later reminded Solomon of Joab's actions against Abner (1 Kings 2:5, 32). Abner is also mentioned in connection with the treasures dedicated to the Lord (1 Chronicles 26:28) and as the father of Jaasiel, a leader in David's army (1 Chronicles 27:21).