1 Samuel 22:20 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 22:20 mean?

1 Samuel 22:20 tells how one son of Ahimelech, named Abiathar, managed to escape after Saul ordered the killing of the priests, and he fled to join David. This verse marks Abiathar as the sole survivor from his priestly family, setting up his later role alongside David.

The verse comes right after a tragic event where King Saul had the priests at Nob killed for helping David. Abiathar, the son of Ahimelech (who was the son of Ahitub), escaped this massacre. By fleeing to David, Abiathar becomes an important figure in David’s story, especially as a priest during David’s time as a fugitive.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 22:20

• אַבְיָתָר (’Aḇyāṯār, Abiathar): This name means "my father is great" or "the father excels." His survival is significant because he is the only priest to escape, and his name hints at his future importance.
• מָלַט (malat, "escaped"): This word is often used for someone who narrowly avoids danger or death. It underscores how close Abiathar came to sharing the fate of his family.
• בָּרַח (barach, "fled"): This verb stresses the urgency and fear in Abiathar’s actions, showing he left quickly to save his life by seeking out David.

Why 1 Samuel 22:20 matters

• This verse explains how the priestly line continues after Saul’s violent act, as Abiathar’s escape preserves the priesthood.
• Abiathar’s arrival with David strengthens the connection between David and the priestly family, which becomes important in the chapters that follow.
• The verse shows the consequences of Saul’s actions and sets up a contrast between Saul’s violence and David’s protection of the innocent.