The Hebrew feminine name Abigayil (אֲבִיגַיִל) means "My Father is joy" or "My Father rejoices" — a compound of ab (father) and giyl (to rejoice, exult). The name is borne by two women in the Old Testament: most famously the wife of Nabal and later of David (1 Samuel 25), and also a sister of David (2 Samuel 17:25).
Abigail is one of Scripture's most remarkable women — a portrait of wisdom, courage, and redemptive intervention. When her foolish husband Nabal (whose name means "fool") insulted David and provoked his wrath, Abigail acted decisively: she gathered provisions, rode out to meet David, and offered a speech that stands as one of the most theologically profound in the entire Old Testament (1 Samuel 25:24-31). She reminded David that shedding innocent blood would stain his future kingship. She was a peacemaker who saved lives through wisdom rather than weapons. The Talmudic tradition numbers her among the most beautiful and wise women in Israel's history. Her name — "My Father rejoices" — is fitting: she brought joy through righteousness.