1 Samuel 22:21
And Abiathar shewed David that Saul had slain the LORD'S priests.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּגֵּ֥ד
shewed
H5046
וַיַּגֵּ֥ד
shewed
Strong's:
H5046
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
כִּ֚י
H3588
כִּ֚י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
4 of 9
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
אֵ֖ת
H853
אֵ֖ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
7 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
Abiathar's role as sole witness to the massacre made him invaluable for David's understanding of events. His report would have included details about Doeg's role, Saul's accusations, and the soldiers' initial refusal—information crucial for the historical record.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we process news that reveals unintended consequences of our actions?
- What does the phrase 'the LORD's priests' emphasize about the gravity of Saul's crime?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And Abiathar shewed David that Saul had slain the LORD'S priests.
Abiathar's report brings devastating news to David. The Hebrew 'vayagged' (showed/reported) conveys more than mere telling—it revealed the full horror of the massacre. The designation 'LORD's priests' emphasizes the sacrilege: these were not merely men but God's consecrated servants. David now learned the catastrophic consequences of his deception at Nob. The information connected cause and effect across the narrative: David's lie (21:2), Doeg's presence (21:7), and now this slaughter. The report forced David to confront how his survival tactics had contributed to innocent deaths—a weight he would carry as a man who understood that his sins had consequences beyond himself.