Abishag
Attendant of King David
Young virgin of Shunem who attended David in his old age — later sought by Adonijah.
1 Kings 1-2 records Abishag the Shunammite — a fair young virgin brought to cherish the aged David. She ministered to him but he knew her not.
Her Story
David's servants sought throughout Israel for a fair damsel to cherish the king. They found Abishag the Shunammite and brought her in. She nourished him, but the king knew her not. After David's death, Adonijah requested her of Bathsheba as wife. Solomon perceived the request as a claim to the throne and ordered Adonijah's death.
What Scripture Teaches
- 1Brought from Shunem to attend the aged David (1 Kings 1:3-4)
- 2Cherished the king; the king knew her not
- 3Adonijah's request for her cost him his life (1 Kings 2:13-25)
Key KJV Scriptures
"And the damsel was very fair, and cherished the king, and ministered to him: but the king knew her not."
Why It Matters
Even quiet service in the king's house has weight. Abishag's place near David's throne became the test by which a pretender was unmasked.
Application for Today
Faithful, hidden service is seen by the King — though men may use it for their own ends, God measures by the heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Abishag become Solomon's wife?
Scripture does not say. Solomon refused to give her to Adonijah and treated the request itself as treasonous.
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