1 Samuel 21:4

"There is no common bread on hand," the priest replied, "but there is some consecrated bread--provided that the young men have kept themselves from women."

Study Bible

There is no common bread on hand
The phrase "common bread" refers to ordinary bread that was available for general consumption. In the Hebrew context, this would be lechem, which was a staple in the diet of the Israelites. The absence of common bread highlights the scarcity or special circumstances at the time, possibly due to the priestly duties or the Sabbath, when only consecrated bread was available. This sets the stage for understanding the sacredness of the bread that is present.

the priest replied
The priest in this context is Ahimelech, who serves at the tabernacle in Nob. His role as a mediator between God and the people is crucial. His response is not just a matter of logistics but also of spiritual discernment, as he must balance the law with compassion. The priest's reply indicates his awareness of the law and his responsibility to uphold it while also considering the needs of David and his men.

but there is consecrated bread
Consecrated bread, or "showbread," known in Hebrew as lechem haPanim, literally means "bread of the Presence." This bread was placed on a table in the Holy Place of the tabernacle as an offering to God, symbolizing His provision and presence among His people. The consecrated nature of this bread underscores its holiness and the requirement that it be treated with reverence, typically only consumed by priests.

provided the young men have kept themselves from women
This condition reflects the requirement for ritual purity, which was a significant aspect of the Israelite religious practice. The Hebrew concept of purity often involved abstaining from sexual relations, especially before engaging in holy activities or consuming sacred items. This requirement emphasizes the importance of holiness and purity in approaching God and partaking in what is consecrated. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of sanctification and the call for God's people to be set apart.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, currently fleeing from King Saul. He is in need of sustenance and seeks help from the priest Ahimelech.

2. Ahimelech
The priest at Nob who provides David with the consecrated bread. He is initially hesitant but ultimately assists David.

3. Nob
A city of priests where the tabernacle was located at this time. It serves as the setting for this encounter between David and Ahimelech.

4. Consecrated Bread
Also known as the "showbread" or "bread of the Presence," it was placed before the Lord in the tabernacle and was meant to be eaten only by the priests.

5. Young Men
Refers to David's companions, who are implied to be with him and are also in need of food.

Teaching Points

Mercy Over Ritual
This passage illustrates the principle that human need can take precedence over ceremonial law. Jesus later uses this example to teach about the spirit of the law versus the letter of the law.

God's Provision
David's experience shows that God provides for His people in unexpected ways. Even in dire circumstances, God can use others to meet our needs.

Purity and Preparation
The requirement that the young men have kept themselves from women underscores the importance of purity and preparation when approaching holy things.

Leadership and Responsibility
David's leadership is evident as he seeks provision not only for himself but also for his men, demonstrating responsibility and care for those under his charge.

Faith in Action
David's faith is active as he approaches Ahimelech, trusting that God will provide for him through the priest's assistance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's request for the consecrated bread demonstrate his faith in God's provision, and how can we apply this trust in our own lives?

2. In what ways does this passage challenge us to prioritize mercy and human need over strict adherence to ritual or tradition?

3. How does the requirement of purity for David's men relate to our own spiritual preparation and approach to God today?

4. What can we learn from David's leadership in this passage about caring for those we are responsible for, especially in times of crisis?

5. How does Jesus' reference to this event in the Gospels deepen our understanding of the relationship between the Old Testament law and the New Testament teachings on grace and mercy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:5-9
Provides the law regarding the consecrated bread, which was to be eaten by Aaron and his sons in a holy place.

Matthew 12:3-4
Jesus references this event when discussing the Sabbath, highlighting the principle of mercy over ritual.

Mark 2:25-26
Another account of Jesus referencing David's actions, emphasizing human need over ceremonial law.