Similar to Saul (1 Samuel 14:24, 1 Samuel 14:39), David swore a rash oath of vengeance—an oath that would require him to commit the sin of bloodguilt seeing as he would slay the innocent (Nabal’s men) with the guilty (Nabal). If Abigail failed in her attempt to stop David, then every male in Nabal’s house would be killed.1 David himself was not obligated to keep his vow because it was contrary to God’s law.2 One is never obligated to sin.
22 God do so to the enemies of David and more also, if by morning I leave so much as one male of all who belong to him.”