Boyd’s Bible Dictionary:
(father of gift). (1) Eldest son of David’s sister Zeruiah and brother of Joab (1 Chron. 2:16); one of the chiefs of David’s mighty men (2 Sam. 2:18). Counseled David to take Saul’s life (1 Sam. 26:5-12). Associated with Joab in assassination of Abner (2 Sam. 3:30). A co-general of David’s army (2 Sam. 10:14; 18:2). Rescued David from the giant Ishbi-benob (2 Sam. 21:16-17).
Concise Bible Dictionary:
Son of David’s sister Zeruiah, and brother of Joab. He was one of David’s officers and served him many years. He accompanied David into Saul’s camp while he slept (1 Sam. 26:6-9). With Joab he slew Abner (2 Sam. 3:30). In his zeal for David he asked permission to slay Shimei (2 Sam. 16:9; 19:21). In the rebellion of Absalom he commanded a third of David’s army (2 Sam. 18:2). He rescued David from Ishbibenob the giant (2 Sam. 21:17). He was captain of the second three of David’s mighty men, and slew three hundred men (2 Sam. 23:18). To him is attributed the slaughter of eighteen thousand Syrians or Edomites in the valley of salt (1 Chron. 18:12; 2 Sam. 8:13).
Strong’s Dictionary of Hebrew Words:
Transliteration:
’Abiyshay
Meaning:
or (shorter) Abshay {ab-shah'ee}; from 1 and 7862; father of a gift (i.e. probably generous); Abishai, an Israelite
Potts’ Bible Proper Names:
Father’s gift; or, father’s sacrifice; generous:―son of Zeruiah, 1 Sam. 26:6. {Patris donum}
Related Books and Articles: