Nabal refused David's request

In the biblical narrative found in 1 Samuel 25, Nabal, a wealthy but churlish man, refuses David's request for provisions. David, who is in the wilderness with his men, sends a courteous message to Nabal, reminding him of how David's men had protected Nabal's shepherds and flocks in the past. David asks for whatever Nabal can spare, particularly during the sheep-shearing festival, a time of feasting and generosity.

Nabal responds harshly and disrespectfully, questioning David's legitimacy and dismissing his request. He insinuates that David is a runaway servant and refuses to give him any food or drink. This response angers David, who prepares to attack Nabal and his household.

However, Nabal's wife, Abigail, intervenes. She quickly gathers provisions and meets David, offering the supplies and apologizing for her husband's behavior. She pleads for David's forgiveness, urging him not to take vengeance and to leave Nabal's fate in God's hands. David is moved by her wisdom and spares Nabal.

Nabal remains unaware of the imminent danger he was in. Later, when Abigail informs him of her actions and how close he came to destruction, he suffers a heart attack and dies ten days later. The story highlights themes of hospitality, pride, and divine justice.
1 Samuel 25
David
Nabal
Abigail
Hospitality
Conflict
Divine Justice
Wisdom
Vengeance
Sheep-shearing Festival
Generosity
Churlishness
Intervention