According to the 1st Book of Samuel Chapter 25, Nabal (נבל), was a rich Calebite who was also described as being harsh and surly. David (who was not yet king) and his band of men who had been outlawed by King Saul were living off the Wilderness of Paran and providing voluntary protection to the shepherds in the area.

The account states that Nabal lived in the city of Maon, and owned much land in the Judean town of Carmel, as well as many sheep and goats; the events it reports are stated as happening at the time of sheep shearing, which in Israelite culture was a time for great festivities, owing to the importance of the wool trade. During this time David sent a small group of men to Nabal with a request for what provisions were readily at hand. David told his men exactly what to say when they approached Nabal. The words David used were a reminder that Nabal's profit would not have been so great if his shepherds had not been protected. In addition, David extends a great deal of honor to Nabal, recognizing him as a nobleman of high stature. Nabal, who knew who David was, responded by questioning David's lineage and insulting his men. David took the insults personally and decided to do something about it.