“And his second, Chileab, of Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite; and the third, Absalom the son of Maacah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;” (2Sa 3:3 AV)
Not much is known of Chileab, nor much more of Abigail after the lineage of David is given here. In 1Chr 3:1, Chileab is named Daniel. The former name means ‘like as his father’ whereas the latter name means “God is my judge”. There is speculation that Chileab was actually the son of Nabal and Abigail, but born to Abigail after Nabal’s death. Thus, Chileab was born to David as a stepson rather than a physical descendent of David. This would explain why he was never considered a legitimate heir to the throne. Being the second son of David, once Absalom was killed, Chileab would have been the next logical choice. Yet nothing is mentioned of him. This is a common explanation of the difference of names between 2Sam and 1Chr. This would also explain why the LORD thought it was important to mention these details. Solomon, who was not chronologically next in line to the throne, was God’s choice. Adonijah was next in line, and he led a rebellion to overthrow Solomon. Again, no mention of Chileab or Daniel. There might be a nugget of truth here. The death of Nabal benefitted Abigail. But it also was a blessing to her child.
Adversity may seem troublesome, but the results are better than what could have been. If Chileab was the son of Nabal, he was spared a horrible childhood. He was raised by a godly father who loved the LORD. Chileab is a great picture of salvation. Jesus tells the Pharisees that they are of their father, the devil. The works of their father, the devil, are what they did. This is true of all who are not born again. If we are not born again, we remain a child of the devil. The works of the devil have to be destroyed. This Jesus accomplished on Calvary’s cross. When we are born again, the bible says we also receive a new name. That name is known in heaven and when we graduate there, we will know it. Just like Chileab, the influence of our wicked father, the devil, is destroyed by his own pride. Nabal died because he was scared to death. Literally. David came to show hospitality to Nabal, and Nabal responded in harshness. When David prepared himself and his men for war against Nabal, Nabal heard of it and collapsed from a drunken heart attack. He died several days later. If Chileab is the son of Nabal, God spared him the experience of being raised by a drunk. Rather, Chileab, or Daniel, was raised by the king of Israel who loved his God.
When I look at only two verses where the person of Chileab or Daniel is mentioned, I cannot help by see the grace of God. No doubt Daniel mourned his earthly father. But the alternative was far better. Just like our experience in salvation, the old life was cruel and uncaring. It exacted more from us that we could pay. There may be portions we miss, but to be honest, walking with God is far better. Recently, a friend of mine sent me a picture of my boyhood home. There were good times there. Fond memories, especially of winters and Christmas. There were neighborhood friends, adventures we shared, and family events that will live on in my memory. However, since Jesus saved me and gave me the new birth, He has given me much more. A perfect wife and three awesome sons. Six grandchildren who all attend church and love their LORD. All this because my David rescued me from my Nabal, gave me a new name, and become my Father who loves me unconditionally.
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