Mark 2:26

How hee went into the house of God in the dayes of Abiathar the high Priest, and did eate the Shew-bread, which is not lawfull to eate, but for the Priests, and gaue also to them which were with him? Mark 2:26 (KJV)

This verse is part of a conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees regarding His disciples plucking grain on the Sabbath. Jesus responds to their criticism by mentioning an incident from the life of David, recorded in 1 Samuel 21:1-6. Let’s examine this passage and explore its significance.

Historical context: In 1 Samuel 21, David, who was not yet king, was on the run from Saul, who sought to kill him. David arrived at the town of Nob and approached Ahimelech, the high priest, seeking provisions. In Mark 2:26, Jesus refers to “the days of Abiathar the high priest.” However, the Old Testament account (1 Samuel 21) mentions Ahimelech as the high priest during this incident. Abiathar became high priest only after his father Ahimelech’s death (1 Samuel 22:18-20), which occurred after the event in 1 Samuel 21.

Eating the showbread: When David arrived in Nob, the only food available was the showbread, which was normally reserved for the priests according to the Law of Moses (Leviticus 24:5-9). Ahimelech, understanding David’s desperate situation, allowed him and his companions to eat the showbread.

Jesus’ point: By referring to this incident, Jesus makes a case for His disciples’ actions. Just as David and his companions ate the showbread, Jesus argues that His disciples, who were hungry, were justified in plucking grain on the Sabbath. He emphasizes the principle that human need and compassion take precedence over strict legalistic interpretations.

Symbolic significance: This account not only highlights the compassion and mercy of God but also foreshadows Jesus, who is the ultimate High Priest and the Bread of Life. In the New Testament, Jesus declares Himself to be the true bread that came down from heaven (John 6:32-35). Just as David and his companions were provided sustenance by the high priest, Jesus, as our High Priest, provides spiritual sustenance to all who come to Him in faith.

In conclusion, Mark 2:26 presents an incident from David’s life to illustrate Jesus’ teaching on the importance of mercy and compassion over strict legalistic observance. It also points to Jesus as the ultimate High Priest and the source of our spiritual sustenance.