Nabal
Pronounced NAY-bal
- Meaning
- "Fool; Senseless"
- Origin
- Hebrew
Nabal means "fool" in Hebrew — and his wife Abigail confirmed it: "As his name is, so is he; Nabal is his name, and folly is with him" (1 Samuel 25:25). He was a wealthy rancher in Carmel whose churlish behavior nearly brought destruction on his entire household. When David and his men, who had been protecting Nabal's shepherds, asked for provisions, Nabal insulted David and refused. David responded by arming 400 men for revenge. Only Abigail's quick thinking and diplomatic intervention prevented a massacre. Ten days later, God struck Nabal and he died. His story serves as a biblical warning about the consequences of foolishness, ingratitude, and arrogance. The contrast between Nabal's folly and Abigail's wisdom makes both characters more vivid.
Spiritual meaning
Nabal's story is a sobering reminder that foolishness and arrogance have real consequences. His example warns us against the pride that refuses to show gratitude or generosity to those who deserve it.
Related verses (KJV)
"Let not my lord, I pray thee, regard this man of Belial, even Nabal: for as his name is, so is he; Nabal is his name, and folly is with him."
1 Samuel 25:25 (KJV) →"And it came to pass about ten days after, that the LORD smote Nabal, that he died."
1 Samuel 25:38 (KJV) →