Abishai was the oldest son of Zeruiah, David's sister. He was the brother of Joab and Asahel[1]). Abishai was the only one who accompanied David when he went to the camp of Saul and took the spear and the cruse of water from Saul's bolster.[2]
He had the command of one of the three divisions of David's army at the battle with Absalom.[3] He slew the Philistine giant Ishbi-benob, who threatened David's life.[4] He was the chief of the second rank of the three "mighties"[5] and on one occasion withstood 300 men, and slew them with his own spear.[6]
Etymology[]
Abishai means "father of (i.e., "desirous of") a gift".