Mark 2:26

"He said to them, “Did you never read what David did when he had need and was hungry—he, and those who were with him?"

Key Reflection

Jesus used this example to challenge his critics about the interpretation of the Sabbath laws. The original audience, familiar with the story of David and his men eating the showbread in 1 Samuel 21:1-6, would recognize that David’s action was not just a simple act but one sanctioned by divine approval, as noted in Psalm 109:4. Jesus’ question highlighted how the Sabbath regulations should be interpreted more flexibly when they conflict with essential human needs and God’s will.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 26. Abiathar the priest. From 1 Sa 21:1, it appears that Ahimelech was high priest at the time here referred to. And from 1 Sa 23:6, it appears that Abiathar was the son of Ahimelech. Some difficulty has been felt in reconciling these accounts. The probable reason why Mark says it was in the days of Abiathar, is that Abiathar was better known than Ahimelech. The son of the high priest was regarded as his successor, and was often associated with him in the duties of his office. It was not improper, therefore, to designate him as high priest, even during the life of his father, especially as that was the name by which he was afterwards known.

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