So the priest gave him the consecrated bread, since there was no bread there but the Bread of the Presence, which had been removed from before the LORD and replaced with hot bread on the day it was taken away. So the priest gave him the consecrated breadIn this passage, the priest Ahimelech gives David the consecrated bread, also known as the showbread. This bread was typically reserved for the priests, as outlined in Leviticus 24:5-9. The act of giving this bread to David highlights the principle that human need can take precedence over ceremonial law, a point later emphasized by Jesus in Matthew 12:3-4 when He references this event to illustrate the importance of mercy over sacrifice. since there was no bread there but the Bread of the Presence which had been removed from before the LORD and replaced with hot bread on the day it was taken away Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe future king of Israel, who is fleeing from King Saul and seeking sustenance. 2. Ahimelech The priest at Nob who provides David with the consecrated bread. 3. Nob The city of priests where Ahimelech serves and where the tabernacle is located. 4. Bread of the Presence Also known as "showbread," this is the consecrated bread placed in the tabernacle as an offering to God. 5. The LORD The covenant name of God, before whom the Bread of the Presence is placed. Teaching Points God's Provision in Times of NeedDavid's reception of the consecrated bread illustrates God's provision for His people, even in unconventional ways. Trust in God's ability to meet needs beyond human expectations. Mercy Over Ritual The act of giving the consecrated bread to David underscores the principle that mercy and human need can take precedence over ritualistic observance. Reflect on how this principle applies in your life and community. The Role of Priests and Leaders Ahimelech's decision to give the bread to David shows the responsibility of spiritual leaders to discern and act with compassion. Consider how leaders today can balance tradition with the needs of their congregation. Sacredness and Practicality The Bread of the Presence was sacred, yet it served a practical purpose in this account. Explore how sacred elements in your faith can have practical applications in daily life. Foreshadowing Christ's Ministry This event foreshadows Christ's teaching on the Sabbath and His emphasis on compassion. Recognize how Old Testament events point to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ. Bible Study Questions 1. How does David's request for the Bread of the Presence demonstrate his faith in God's provision?2. In what ways does Ahimelech's response to David's need challenge our understanding of religious rituals and compassion? 3. How can we apply the principle of "mercy over sacrifice" in our daily interactions and decision-making? 4. What does this passage teach us about the role of spiritual leaders in addressing the needs of their community? 5. How does this event in David's life foreshadow the teachings and ministry of Jesus Christ, particularly regarding the Sabbath and acts of mercy? Connections to Other Scriptures Leviticus 24:5-9This passage outlines the instructions for the Bread of the Presence, which is to be set before the LORD continually and eaten by the priests. Matthew 12:1-8 Jesus references this event when discussing the Sabbath, highlighting mercy over sacrifice and the precedence of human need. Mark 2:25-26 Another account of Jesus referencing David's actions, emphasizing the principle of necessity and compassion. Hebrews 9:2 Describes the setup of the tabernacle, including the table and the Bread of the Presence, providing context for its sacredness.
People Achish, Ahimelech, David, Doeg, Elah, Goliath, SaulPlaces Gath, Nob, Valley of ElahTopics Aside, Bread, Consecrated, Except, Giveth, Hallowed, Holy, Hot, Order, Presence, Priest, Removed, Replaced, Shew-loaves, Showbread, Show-breadDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 21:6Library Historical Criticism of Mediæval Amplifications. But along with the genuine and trustworthy matter, the compiler has embodied much that is unattested and in many cases inherently improbable, and even some things that are demonstrably untrue. i. The Miraculous Details.--To the category of the improbable--the fiction of hagiology or the growth of myth--belong the miracles so freely ascribed to Ephraim and the miraculous events represented as attending on his career. It is noteworthy that Ephraim himself, though no doubt he believed that he was … Ephraim the Syrian—Hymns and Homilies of Ephraim the Syrian The Exile Continued. Of Preparation. Touching Jacob, However, that which He did at his Mother's Bidding... Samuel Links 1 Samuel 21:6 NIV1 Samuel 21:6 NLT 1 Samuel 21:6 ESV 1 Samuel 21:6 NASB 1 Samuel 21:6 KJV 1 Samuel 21:6 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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