Background:
Abiathar was the son of Ahimelech, the high priest at Nob, during the reign of King Saul. He belonged to the priestly line of Eli, serving in the tabernacle at Nob. Abiathar's life took a dramatic turn following a tragic event that led to his escape and subsequent alliance with David, the future king of Israel.

The Massacre at Nob:
The account of Abiathar's escape begins with King Saul's growing paranoia and fear of David, whom he perceived as a threat to his throne. David, fleeing from Saul, sought refuge with Ahimelech at Nob. Ahimelech provided David with bread and the sword of Goliath, unaware of the full extent of Saul's animosity towards David.

When Saul learned of this, he accused Ahimelech and the priests of conspiring with David. Despite Ahimelech's protestations of innocence, Saul ordered the execution of the priests. Doeg the Edomite, one of Saul's servants, carried out the massacre, killing eighty-five priests and destroying the city of Nob. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 22:18-19: "So Doeg the Edomite turned and struck down the priests himself, killing on that day eighty-five men who wore the linen ephod. He also put to the sword Nob, the city of the priests, with its men and women, children and infants, oxen, donkeys, and sheep."

Abiathar's Escape:
Abiathar, the son of Ahimelech, was the sole survivor of the massacre. He fled to David, who was then hiding in the wilderness. Abiathar brought with him the ephod, a priestly garment used for seeking divine guidance. His escape and arrival are detailed in 1 Samuel 22:20-23: "But one son of Ahimelech son of Ahitub escaped and fled to David. His name was Abiathar, and he brought with him an ephod. When Abiathar told David that Saul had killed the priests of the LORD, David said to him, 'I am responsible for the lives of your whole family. Stay with me; do not be afraid, for he who seeks your life seeks mine. You will be safe with me.'"

Alliance with David:
Abiathar's alliance with David marked the beginning of a significant partnership. As a priest, Abiathar played a crucial role in David's life, providing spiritual guidance and support. The presence of the ephod allowed David to inquire of the LORD, seeking divine direction during his time as a fugitive and later as king.

Abiathar remained loyal to David throughout his reign, serving as one of his chief priests alongside Zadok. His loyalty was tested during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son, when Abiathar chose to stay with David, further solidifying their alliance.

Significance:
Abiathar's escape and alliance with David highlight the themes of divine providence and loyalty amidst adversity. His survival and subsequent role in David's life underscore the importance of the priesthood in Israel's history and the enduring relationship between the king and the priestly line. Abiathar's account is a testament to the resilience of faith and the enduring bonds formed in times of trial.