1 Samuel 22:21 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 22:21 mean?

1 Samuel 22:21 reports that Abiathar told David about Saul’s killing of the LORD’s priests. This verse marks the moment when David learns of the violent act Saul committed against the priests at Nob.

Abiathar, the son of the slain high priest, has just escaped the massacre and comes to David to share the news. The verse highlights the seriousness of Saul’s actions and sets the stage for David’s relationship with Abiathar, who will now stay with David as a priest and ally. This moment also deepens the conflict between Saul and David, showing the cost of Saul’s choices.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 22:21

• שָׁאוּל (Sha’ul, transliterated "Saul") is the name of Israel’s first king. His actions here are central, as he is the one responsible for the priests’ deaths.
• הָרַג (harag, transliterated "slain") means to kill or put to death. The word emphasizes the deliberate and violent nature of Saul’s deed.
• יְהוָה (YHWH, transliterated "Yahweh" or "the LORD") is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible. The phrase “the LORD’s priests” underscores that these were not just any priests, but those who served Israel’s God, making Saul’s act especially grievous.
• כֹּהֵן (kohen, transliterated "priest") refers to someone who serves in the sanctuary, offering sacrifices and leading worship. The loss of the LORD’s priests is a major blow to Israel’s spiritual leadership.

Why 1 Samuel 22:21 matters

• This verse clarifies that David did not know about Saul’s attack on the priests until Abiathar told him, showing David’s innocence in the event.
• The report from Abiathar marks a turning point, as he becomes the last surviving priest from Nob and joins David, symbolizing a shift in spiritual leadership away from Saul.
• The verse connects to the wider story by showing the consequences of Saul’s fear and jealousy, which now affect not only David but also the innocent priests and their families.