Bible Dictionary
Abiel
Abiel was the father or grandfather of Saul and the father of Ner, who was associated with Saul’s commander Abner. The name is also used for one of David’s warriors, called Abi-albon.
Definition
Abiel is a Benjaminite name meaning “my father is God” or “God is father.” One Abiel was the father of Kish and apparently also the father of Ner, making him connected with Saul and Abner. Another Abiel was one of David’s mighty men and was also called Abi-albon.
Biblical Usage
Abiel appears in the genealogical background of Saul and Saul’s commander Abner. The name is also associated with one of David’s mighty men, who is called Abi-albon in another account.
Historical Background
The first Abiel belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. The second is identified as an Arbathite in the record of David’s warriors.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Father (i.e., “possessor”) of God = “pious.” (1.) The son of Zeror and father of Ner, who was the grandfather of Saul (1 Sam. 14:51; 1 Chr. 8:33; 9:39). In 1 Sam. 9:1, he is called the “father,” probably meaning the grandfather, of Kish. (2.) An Arbathite, one of David’s warriors (1 Chr. 11:32); called also Abi-albon (2 Sam. 23:31).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>a'-bi-el, ab'-yel, a-bi'-el ('abhi'el, "my father is God," or "God is father"):</p><p>(1) A descendant of Benjamin the son of Jacob. Father of Kish the father of King Saul, and also, apparently, the father of Ner the father of Saul's general, Abner (1Sa 9:1; 14:51).</p><p>(2) One of David's mighty men (1Ch 11:32), called ABI-ALBON, which see, in 2Sa 23:31.</p>