Introduction:
Abshai, also spelled Abishai, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known for his loyalty and military prowess. He is the son of Zeruiah, David's sister, making him King David's nephew. Abshai is frequently mentioned in the context of David's military campaigns and personal exploits.

Family Background:
Abshai is the eldest son of Zeruiah, David's sister, and the brother of Joab and Asahel. The family is noted for their close association with King David, with Joab serving as the commander of David's army. The familial ties to David play a significant role in Abshai's life and career.

Military Exploits:
Abshai is renowned for his bravery and skill in battle. He first appears in the biblical narrative during David's flight from King Saul. In 1 Samuel 26:6, Abshai volunteers to accompany David into Saul's camp, demonstrating his loyalty and courage: "Then David asked Ahimelech the Hittite and Abishai son of Zeruiah, Joab’s brother, 'Who will go down with me to Saul’s camp?' 'I will go with you,' answered Abishai."

Abshai's military achievements are further highlighted in his role as one of David's mighty men. In 2 Samuel 23:18, he is described as the chief of the second group of three mighty warriors: "Now Abishai the brother of Joab, son of Zeruiah, was chief of the Three. He wielded his spear against three hundred men and killed them, gaining a name along with the Three."

Loyalty to David:
Abshai's loyalty to David is evident throughout his life. He is often seen defending David against his enemies. In 2 Samuel 16:9, when Shimei curses David, Abshai offers to kill Shimei: "Then Abishai son of Zeruiah said to the king, 'Why should this dead dog curse my lord the king? Let me go over and cut off his head.'"

Role in Absalom's Rebellion:
During Absalom's rebellion, Abshai remains steadfastly loyal to David. In 2 Samuel 18:2, David appoints him as one of the commanders of his forces: "He sent out the troops, a third under the command of Joab, a third under Joab’s brother Abishai son of Zeruiah, and a third under Ittai the Gittite."

Later Years and Legacy:
Abshai continues to serve David faithfully throughout his reign. In 2 Samuel 21:17, he saves David from being killed by a Philistine giant: "But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to his aid, struck the Philistine, and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, saying, 'You must never again go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel will not be extinguished.'"

Abshai's legacy is that of a valiant warrior and a loyal supporter of King David. His actions and dedication to David's cause are recorded as exemplary, and he is remembered as one of the key figures in David's military successes.52. Abishay -- "my father is Jesse," an Israelite name
... Abishai. Word Origin from ab and shay Definition "my father is Jesse," an
Isr. name NASB Word Usage Abishai (21), Abshai (4). Abishai. ...
/hebrew/52.htm - 6kAbshai (4 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Abshai (4 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 2:16 and
their sisters were Zeruiah and Abigail. The sons of Zeruiah ...
/a/abshai.htm - 7k

Absolute (5 Occurrences)

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Absent (15 Occurrences)

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Amasai (5 Occurrences)
... Some have identified him with Amasa and others with Abishai, who is called
Abshai in 1 Chronicles 11:20 m (compare 1 Chronicles 18:12). ...
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