Abital. One of David's wives, and mother of Shephatiah. See 1Ch 3:3.

David and his wives.

It should be noted that marriage was often a tool used to consolidate political power and alliances.

The following are the wives of David that are mentioned in the Bible. Based upon the number of his children, David possibly had additional wives and/or concubines. (See 2Sa 5:14; 1Ch 3:5-9; 1Ch 14:4-7)

1. Michal (1Sa 18:20-29; 19:9-17; 25:44; 2Sa 3:12-16; 6:12-23), described at http://www.bibletexts.com/glossary/michal.htm
2. Ahinoam (1Sa 25:43; 30:5,18), described at http://www.bibletexts.com/glossary/ahinoam.htm
3. Abigail (1Sa 25:1-42; 30:5,18), described at http://www.bibletexts.com/glossary/abigail.htm
4. Maacah (1Ch 3:2), described at http://www.bibletexts.com/glossary/maacah.htm
5. Haggith (1Ch 3:2), described at http://www.bibletexts.com/glossary/haggith.htm
6. Abital (1Ch 3:3), described at http://www.bibletexts.com/glossary/abital.htm
7. Eglah (1Ch 3:3), described at http://www.bibletexts.com/glossary/eglah.htm
8. Bathsheba / Bath-shua (2Sa 11:1-12:25; 1Ki 1:11-31; 1Ki 2:13-25; 1Ch 3:5; Psa 51), described at http://www.bibletexts.com/glossary/bathsheba.htm

• See also 2Sa 11 and 12 at http://www.bibletexts.com/verses/v-2sa.htm