Bible Figure
Abishai
Abishai one of King David generals and relatives
Abishai was David's nephew, brother of Joab and Asahel, and one of David's most prominent warriors and military commanders.
Biography
Abishai was a son of David's sister Zeruiah. He accompanied David into Saul's camp and wanted to kill the sleeping king, but David refused to strike the Lord's anointed. Abishai later fought in David's wars, commanded troops, helped defeat Absalom's rebellion, and saved David from the Philistine warrior Ishbi-benob. Like his brother Joab, he could be fierce and quick to advocate violence; David twice restrained him from killing Shimei. He is remembered among David's mighty men and as a commander of exceptional courage.
Biblical Significance
Abishai's career displays loyal courage in David's service but also the danger of zeal ungoverned by restraint. Several episodes highlight David's refusal to take vengeance even when Abishai was ready to act.