Topical Encyclopedia Nob was a city in ancient Israel, notable for its association with the priesthood and its tragic destruction by King Saul. It is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the context of the events surrounding King David's rise to power and Saul's subsequent decline.Location and Significance Nob is identified as a city of priests, located near Jerusalem. Its exact location is debated among scholars, but it is generally believed to have been situated on the northern outskirts of the city, possibly near Mount Scopus. Nob served as a religious center during the time of King Saul, housing the tabernacle and the priestly community. Biblical Account The most significant biblical account of Nob is found in 1 Samuel 21-22. David, fleeing from King Saul, arrives at Nob and seeks assistance from Ahimelech the priest. David deceives Ahimelech by claiming to be on a secret mission from the king. Ahimelech provides David with consecrated bread and the sword of Goliath, which was kept at Nob. The presence of David at Nob and the assistance he received from Ahimelech were reported to Saul by Doeg the Edomite, one of Saul's servants. Enraged by what he perceived as treason, Saul summoned Ahimelech and the priests to his court. Despite Ahimelech's protestations of innocence and loyalty, Saul ordered the execution of the priests. 1 Samuel 22:18-19 recounts the grim outcome: "Then the king ordered Doeg, 'You turn and strike down the priests!' So Doeg the Edomite turned and struck them down, killing eighty-five men who wore the linen ephod. He also struck down Nob, the city of the priests, with the sword—men and women, children and infants, oxen, donkeys, and sheep." Theological Implications The destruction of Nob is a pivotal moment in the narrative of Saul's reign. It highlights Saul's increasing paranoia and departure from God's favor. The massacre of the priests at Nob is seen as a grievous sin, further alienating Saul from the divine mandate that once legitimized his kingship. The event also underscores the theme of divine justice and protection. Abiathar, the son of Ahimelech, escapes the massacre and flees to David, bringing with him the ephod. This act of survival and the subsequent alliance with David signify God's continued presence and guidance with David, the anointed future king of Israel. Legacy The destruction of Nob serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the misuse of power. It marks a turning point in the biblical narrative, setting the stage for David's eventual ascension to the throne and the establishment of Jerusalem as the central place of worship. The account of Nob is a testament to the enduring themes of faith, justice, and divine providence that permeate the biblical text. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 22:19They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay. Nave's Topical Index Library How David Fled to Ahimelech and Afterwards to the Kings of the ... part viii. Book 5 Footnotes How Even Apostles Thought that a Lie was Often Useful and the ... The Israelites Book 9 Footnotes Letter cviii. To Eustochium. The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. Against Jovinianus. Resources Who was Doeg the Edomite? | GotQuestions.orgNob: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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