ABNER . Saul’s cousin ( 1 Samuel 9:1; 1 Samuel 14:51 ) and commander-in-chief ( 1 Samuel 17:55; 1 Samuel 26:5 ). He set Ish-bosheth on his father’s throne, and fought long and bravely against David’s general, Joab ( 2 Samuel 2:1-32 ). After a severe defeat, he killed Asabel in self-defence ( 2 Samuel 2:23 ). He behaved arrogantly towards the puppet-king, especially in taking possession of one of Saul’s concubines ( 2 Samuel 3:7 ). Resenting bitterly the remonstrances of Ish-bosheth, he entered into negotiations with David ( 2 Samuel 3:8-12 ), and then, on David’s behalf, with the elders of Israel ( 2 Samuel 3:17 ). Dreading the loss of his own position, and thirsting for revenge, Joab murdered him at Hebron ( 2 Samuel 3:26 f.). David gave him a public funeral, dissociated himself from Joab’s act ( 2 Samuel 3:31-37 ), and afterwards charged Solomon to avenge it ( 1 Kings 2:5 ). Abner was destitute of all lofty ideas of morality or religion ( 2 Samuel 3:8; 2 Samuel 3:16 ), but was the only capable person on the side of Saul’s family.
J. Taylor.