Abi-albon was a military hero in the Old Testament, a valiant warrior counted among the elite group known as David’s Mighty Men. His legacy, though brief in scriptural mention, speaks of the loyalty and courage that established the Kingdom of David.
The Warrior of The Thirty
Abi-albon is named in the book of Second Samuel as one of the “thirty” most honorable warriors who served King David.
- Biblical Mention: He appears only once by this specific name in the King James Version, in the list of David’s heroes.
“Abialbon the Arbathite, Azmaveth the Barhumite,” (2 Samuel 23:31, KJV)
- The Context: This list immediately follows the accounts of David’s three chief mighty men and details the names of the next thirty distinguished military leaders. Abi-albon’s inclusion in this catalog signifies his recognized valor and vital role in the campaigns that secured David’s throne and expanded the kingdom of Israel.
- The Dual Name: In the parallel record of David’s Mighty Men, Abi-albon is referred to by a slightly different name:
“Hurai of the brooks of Gaash, Abiel the Arbathite,” (1 Chronicles 11:32, KJV)
Many scholars agree that Abi-albon and Abiel are the same person. The name Abi-albon is generally interpreted to mean “Father of Strength,” or “valiant,” a fitting title for a member of this elite corps of heroes.
The Arbathite
The designation appended to his name provides his origin or home region: “the Arbathite.”
- Geographical Tie: This title points to a connection with a place called Arabah or perhaps Beth-arabah, a location likely situated in the Jordan Valley or the wilderness territory of Judah or Benjamin (Joshua 15:6, 61).
- The Significance: His origin from a region characterized by rugged or desert terrain suggests a background that would have bred resilience and a hardened expertise necessary for David’s forces. The unity of David’s military, bringing together men from diverse regions like the “Arbathite” and the “Barhumite,” illustrates the gathering of all Israel under the Lord’s anointed King.
A Shadow of The Lord’s Return
Abi-albon’s existence as a loyal warrior provides a compelling, though minor, shadow of the grand theme of TheLordsReturn.com.
The listing of David’s heroes, like Abi-albon, serves to:
- Honor Loyalty and Valor: God ensures that the names and deeds of those who fought valiantly for His chosen King are preserved, underscoring the divine value placed on faithful service.
- Foreshadow the King’s Company: David’s Mighty Men, dedicated and courageous, are a type of the army that shall follow the Greater King, Jesus Christ, at His Return. Just as Abi-albon secured David’s earthly reign, a final, loyal company will follow the Lord of hosts as He returns in power and great glory.
The brief mention of the “Arbathite” assures the reader that in the Kingdom to come, no loyal warrior or faithful servant, regardless of their obscure origin, will be forgotten by the King.