The strengthening of Abner's position is a significant event in the narrative of the early monarchy of Israel, particularly during the reign of King Saul and the subsequent transition to King David. Abner, the son of Ner, was the commander of Saul's army and a key figure in the house of Saul. His influence and actions played a crucial role in the political dynamics of Israel during this tumultuous period.

Background and Role in Saul's Reign

Abner was a cousin to King Saul, being the son of Saul's uncle Ner (1 Samuel 14:50-51). As the commander of Saul's army, Abner held a position of considerable power and influence. He was a loyal supporter of Saul throughout his reign and was instrumental in military campaigns against the Philistines and other enemies of Israel.

Abner's Support for Ish-bosheth

Following the death of Saul and his sons at the Battle of Mount Gilboa, Abner took decisive action to maintain the house of Saul's influence over Israel. He installed Ish-bosheth, Saul's surviving son, as king over Israel, excluding the tribe of Judah, which had already anointed David as their king (2 Samuel 2:8-9). This move was a strategic effort by Abner to preserve the Saulide dynasty and counterbalance David's rising power.

Consolidation of Power

Abner's position was strengthened through his military prowess and political acumen. He led the forces loyal to Ish-bosheth and engaged in a prolonged conflict with the house of David. The war between the house of Saul and the house of David was marked by a series of skirmishes and battles, with Abner playing a central role in the military strategies of Ish-bosheth's reign (2 Samuel 3:1).

Defection to David

Despite his initial loyalty to Ish-bosheth, Abner's relationship with the king became strained. A pivotal moment occurred when Ish-bosheth accused Abner of impropriety with Saul's concubine, Rizpah. Feeling insulted and undervalued, Abner decided to shift his allegiance to David. He recognized the divine mandate for David to be king over all Israel and sought to bring the northern tribes under David's rule (2 Samuel 3:6-11).

Abner's defection was a turning point in the struggle for the throne. He negotiated with the elders of Israel and promised to deliver their support to David. Abner's actions demonstrated his pragmatic approach to power and his recognition of the inevitable rise of David as king over a united Israel.

Death and Legacy

Abner's efforts to strengthen his position and influence the political landscape of Israel were cut short by his untimely death. He was murdered by Joab, David's military commander, in an act of vengeance for the death of Joab's brother Asahel, whom Abner had killed in battle (2 Samuel 3:27). David mourned Abner's death and publicly condemned Joab's actions, highlighting Abner's importance and the respect he commanded (2 Samuel 3:31-39).

Abner's legacy is one of a skilled military leader and a shrewd political operator. His initial support for the house of Saul and subsequent alliance with David illustrate the complex and often turbulent nature of Israel's early monarchy. Through his actions, Abner played a pivotal role in the eventual unification of the tribes under David's rule, setting the stage for the establishment of a strong and enduring kingdom.