Abiathar, a significant priestly figure during the reign of King David, is prominently featured in the narrative of David's struggle against his son Absalom's rebellion. As a descendant of Eli, Abiathar was the son of Ahimelech, the priest of Nob, and he narrowly escaped the massacre ordered by King Saul, subsequently joining David in his flight (1 Samuel 22:20-23).

Role in Absalom's Rebellion

Abiathar's loyalty to David is notably demonstrated during Absalom's rebellion. When Absalom declared himself king in Hebron, David fled Jerusalem to avoid confrontation. Abiathar, along with another priest, Zadok, remained faithful to David and played a crucial role in the intelligence network that David established to counter Absalom's coup.

Sending Secret Information

As David fled, Abiathar and Zadok brought the Ark of the Covenant out of Jerusalem, intending to accompany David. However, David instructed them to return the Ark to the city, recognizing that their presence in Jerusalem would be more beneficial for gathering intelligence (2 Samuel 15:24-29). Abiathar and Zadok's sons, Jonathan and Ahimaaz, were stationed as messengers to relay information to David.

The critical moment came when Ahithophel, Absalom's advisor, proposed a plan to pursue and attack David swiftly. Hushai, David's friend and spy within Absalom's court, countered Ahithophel's counsel with a plan designed to buy David time. Hushai's advice was accepted, and he immediately informed Abiathar and Zadok of the developments.

Abiathar and Zadok then dispatched their sons to deliver the message to David. The young men, Jonathan and Ahimaaz, were nearly captured but managed to evade Absalom's forces, thanks to the help of a loyal woman who hid them in a well (2 Samuel 17:17-21). They successfully reached David, providing him with the crucial intelligence that allowed him to prepare for Absalom's attack.

Biblical References

The account of Abiathar's involvement in this episode is detailed in the books of Samuel. Key passages include:

· 2 Samuel 15:24-29 : Describes Abiathar and Zadok's initial intention to leave Jerusalem with the Ark and David's instruction for them to return.
· 2 Samuel 17:15-21 : Chronicles the relay of information from Hushai to David through Abiathar and Zadok's sons, highlighting the perilous journey of Jonathan and Ahimaaz.

Abiathar's actions during this tumultuous period underscore his loyalty and strategic importance to David's reign. His ability to gather and transmit critical intelligence played a vital role in David's survival and eventual restoration to power.2 Samuel 15:35,36
And have you not there with you Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore it shall be, that what thing soever you shall hear out of the king's house, you shall tell it to Zadok and Abiathar the priests.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 17:15-22
Then said Hushai to Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, Thus and thus did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus have I counceled.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 2:26
And to Abiathar the priest said the king, Get you to Anathoth, to your own fields; for you are worthy of death: but I will not at this time put you to death, because you bore the ark of the LORD God before David my father, and because you have been afflicted in all wherein my father was afflicted.
Nave's Topical Index

Who was Zadok in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Adonijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Absalom in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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