Old Testament
1 Samuel 21:6
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So the priest gave him the holy bread, since it was the only bread available. It was the special bread placed before the LORD, which was replaced with hot bread on the day it was removed.
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So the priest gave him hallowed bread: for there was no bread there but the shewbread, that was taken from before the LORD, to put hot bread in the day when it was taken away.
What 1 Samuel 21:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, David is on the run and finds himself in need of food. He approaches the priest, who only has the holy bread available. This bread, known as the showbread, was typically reserved for special occasions and was placed before God in the temple. However, the priest recognizes David's urgent need and decides to give him the bread. This act highlights the importance of compassion and meeting immediate needs over strict adherence to rules. It shows that sometimes, the spirit of the law is more important than the letter of the law. David's situation reminds us that even in desperate times, help can come from unexpected places. The priest's willingness to assist David illustrates the value of mercy and understanding in our interactions with others, especially when they are in need. This moment serves as a powerful reminder that our priorities should reflect love and care for one another, even when it challenges traditional norms or expectations. It encourages us to be flexible and responsive to the needs of those around us.
How to apply 1 Samuel 21:6 to your life
When you encounter someone in need, consider how you can help them, even if it means bending the rules a little. Show compassion and understanding, just like the priest did for David. Remember, love and kindness often outweigh strict adherence to guidelines in our daily lives. Be open to meeting others' needs with grace and generosity.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: Bread and a Sword at Nob (1 Samuel 21:1–9)
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David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying 1 Samuel 21:6
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 21:6 mean?
1 Samuel 21:6 describes how David, while fleeing from Saul, receives holy bread from the priest because he is in urgent need of food. This act emphasizes the importance of compassion and meeting immediate needs over strict adherence to religious rules.
What is the significance of the holy bread in 1 Samuel 21:6?
The holy bread, or showbread, was typically reserved for special occasions and placed before the Lord in the temple. Its use in this passage highlights the theme of mercy, showing that human need can take precedence over ritual.
What does the priest's action in 1 Samuel 21:6 teach us?
The priest's decision to give David the holy bread teaches us about the value of compassion and understanding in helping those in need. It illustrates that sometimes, love and kindness are more important than strictly following rules.
Why was David given the showbread in 1 Samuel 21:6?
David was given the showbread because he was in desperate need of food while on the run. The priest recognized the urgency of David's situation and chose to prioritize his immediate need over the customary restrictions.
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