What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 22:20? One solitary escapee “But one of the sons of Ahimelech...” (1 Samuel 22:20a) • After Saul’s brutal slaughter of the priests at Nob (1 Samuel 22:17–19), only one man slips through death’s net. • God often preserves a remnant when judgment falls—think of Noah (Genesis 7:23) or the 7,000 who had not bowed to Baal (1 Kings 19:18). • The word “But” signals a divinely-orchestrated interruption in a tragedy that seemed total. Born into a priestly line “...of the sons of Ahimelech son of Ahitub...” (v. 20a) • Ahimelech, recently murdered by Saul’s order, descended from Eli (1 Samuel 14:3; 1 Samuel 2:27–36). • Though Eli’s house was under judgment, the line is not snuffed out; God’s promises weave through even disciplined families, just as He preserved Judah despite exile (2 Kings 25:27–30). • The mention of both father and grandfather roots the survivor firmly in the sacred lineage of the priesthood ordained in Exodus 28:1. Providential escape “...escaped.” (v. 20a) • Humanly, Abiathar outran certain death; spiritually, the Lord shielded him (“The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them,” Psalm 34:7). • His escape fulfills the earlier prophetic word that one would survive to carry news to David (1 Samuel 2:33). • God’s sovereign hand is evident again when Peter’s chains fall off in prison (Acts 12:6–11); deliverance is a recurring testimony to God’s faithfulness. Introducing Abiathar “His name was Abiathar...” (v. 20b) • Names mattered in Israelite culture; “Abiathar” means “father of abundance.” Though he arrives empty-handed, God will make him spiritually fruitful as David’s high priest (2 Samuel 8:17). • Like Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41:52), he will rise from affliction to significant influence. • The narrative pauses to spotlight him because he will bridge the priesthood from Saul’s failed regime to David’s God-chosen kingship. Seeking refuge with the anointed king “...and he fled to David.” (v. 20b) • David, though hunted himself, becomes a sanctuary for the displaced priest—foreshadowing Christ, the ultimate refuge (Matthew 11:28). • This move divides the priesthood: Saul retains ceremonial trappings, but the true spiritual authority follows God’s anointed. Similar lines are drawn when the apostles leave the temple system to follow Jesus (Acts 4:19–20). • Abiathar brings the ephod to David (1 Samuel 23:6), granting David divine guidance and reinforcing his rightful claim to the throne. summary One priest survives Saul’s massacre, and his escape is no accident. Abiathar, rooted in a judged yet preserved lineage, is delivered by God’s providence to align himself with David. His presence supplies David with legitimate priestly authority, ensuring that worship and guidance continue even in exile. The verse underscores God’s unwavering commitment to preserve a remnant, uphold His promises, and channel His purposes through those who seek refuge in His anointed king. |
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