Abiathar was the solitary priestly survivor who found refuge with David, thereby securing a remnant of Israel’s priesthood and forging a unique partnership in David’s future reign.
But one son of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped and fled after David. (1 Sam. 22:20)
This verse describes how Abiathar, the lone surviving son in the priestly family of Ahimelech, escaped following the tragic massacre of the priests at Nob instigated by King Saul. Nob was a city near Jerusalem where the tabernacle of the LORD once stood, making it a significant spiritual site for Israel. The account took place around 1000 BC, when Saul’s paranoia led him to hunt any perceived ally of David, culminating in the bloodshed of innocent priests. In this devastating turn of events, Abiathar alone fled, carrying the line of Israel’s priests to safety.
By fleeing to David, Abiathar exemplifies how God often preserves a faithful remnant to continue His work. David, who himself was the anointed yet persecuted king-to-be, offered refuge and protection to the priest. Historically, Abiathar would go on to serve closely with David — eventually performing priestly duties while David reigned as king. This collaboration between David (the king) and Abiathar (the priest) foreshadows the unity between kingship and priesthood that is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus as the perfect King and eternal High Priest (Hebrews 7:24-26).
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1 Samuel 22:20 meaning
But one son of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped and fled after David. (1 Sam. 22:20)
This verse describes how Abiathar, the lone surviving son in the priestly family of Ahimelech, escaped following the tragic massacre of the priests at Nob instigated by King Saul. Nob was a city near Jerusalem where the tabernacle of the LORD once stood, making it a significant spiritual site for Israel. The account took place around 1000 BC, when Saul’s paranoia led him to hunt any perceived ally of David, culminating in the bloodshed of innocent priests. In this devastating turn of events, Abiathar alone fled, carrying the line of Israel’s priests to safety.
By fleeing to David, Abiathar exemplifies how God often preserves a faithful remnant to continue His work. David, who himself was the anointed yet persecuted king-to-be, offered refuge and protection to the priest. Historically, Abiathar would go on to serve closely with David — eventually performing priestly duties while David reigned as king. This collaboration between David (the king) and Abiathar (the priest) foreshadows the unity between kingship and priesthood that is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus as the perfect King and eternal High Priest (Hebrews 7:24-26).