Who He Was:
* Commander of King Saul's Army: Abner was the most powerful and influential military leader in Saul's kingdom. He was essentially the right-hand man of the king, responsible for leading the army and maintaining order.
* Loyal to Saul: Abner remained loyal to Saul even after the king's death. He believed in the monarchy and saw it as his duty to uphold the Davidic dynasty.
* A Skilled Warrior: Abner was known for his military prowess and courage. He was a formidable warrior and a brilliant tactician.
His Key Actions:
* Defending Saul: Abner defended King Saul against the Philistines, leading the Israelite army to victory on many occasions.
* Supporting Ish-bosheth: After Saul's death, Abner supported Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, as the new king of Israel. He became the de facto leader of the kingdom, attempting to keep it together in the face of David's growing power.
* Negotiations with David: Abner attempted to negotiate peace between Ish-bosheth and David. He believed that a unified kingdom under one king would be the best way to protect Israel from its enemies.
* Betrayal and Death: Abner's loyalty to Ish-bosheth ultimately led to his downfall. He was killed by Joab, David's general, in a fit of anger and revenge for the death of Abner's brother.
Significance:
Abner's story highlights the complex political landscape of Israel after Saul's death. He represents a key player in the struggle for power between the house of Saul and David. His tragic death is a symbol of the violence and betrayal that characterized this period in Israel's history.
Theological Importance:
Some scholars see Abner's character as a complex one, mirroring the internal conflict between loyalty to the old order and the rise of a new era under David. He symbolizes the struggle between tradition and change, highlighting the challenges faced by those who find themselves caught in the middle of a changing world.