Bible Figure

Abiathar

Male • Old Testament
male human biblical figure in 1 Samuel 22:20-23 &c, high priest at Nob
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Abiathar was a priest who escaped Saul's massacre at Nob, served David for many years, and was later removed from office by Solomon.
Abiathar

Biography

Abiathar, son of Ahimelech, escaped when Saul ordered the priests of Nob killed for assisting David. He fled to David carrying an ephod and became a priest associated with David throughout his years of conflict and kingship. Abiathar and Zadok served together and remained in Jerusalem during Absalom's rebellion at David's instruction. Near David's death, however, Abiathar supported Adonijah's attempt to take the throne. Solomon spared his life because he had shared David's hardships but banished him to Anathoth and removed him from priestly service.

Biblical Significance

Abiathar links David's wilderness years with the established monarchy. His removal under Solomon is explicitly connected in Kings with fulfillment of the earlier judgment against Eli's priestly house.