Who was Abigail in the Bible and what it means?

Abigail was a woman mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the Old Testament book of 1 Samuel. She was the wife of Nabal, a wealthy and harsh man from the town of Maon. Abigail is described as intelligent, beautiful, and wise.

Abigail's story in the Bible is one of courage and diplomacy. When David, who was on the run from King Saul, sent messengers to Nabal requesting provisions for his men, Nabal responded rudely and refused to help. Abigail, knowing that David and his men were righteous and did not deserve such treatment, took matters into her own hands. She gathered food and supplies and went to meet David, humbly apologizing for her husband's behavior and offering the provisions.

David was impressed by Abigail's wisdom and kindness, and he praised her for preventing him from taking revenge on Nabal. After Nabal's death, David married Abigail, making her his wife.

The name Abigail means "my father's joy" or "source of joy" in Hebrew. Abigail's story in the Bible serves as an example of a woman who used her intelligence, courage, and diplomacy to bring about peace and prevent conflict.