Bible Dictionaries
Ahimelech

Holman Bible Dictionary

(uh hihm' eh lehch) Personal name meaning, “My brother is king.” See 1 Samuel 21:1-15 ), bread placed in the sanctuary and reserved for priests to eat (Exodus 25:30; Exodus 35:13; Leviticus 24:5-9 ). Jesus used this action to justify breaking worship regulations to meet human need (Matthew 12:1-8 ) and show He is Lord of the sabbath. Ahimelech also gave Goliath's gigantic sword to David. Doeg, an Edomite overseer for Saul, saw the transaction and reported to Saul. When his servants refused to kill God's priest, Saul ordered Doeg to do so. Eighty-five priests died (1 Samuel 22:1 ). Only Abiathar, Ahimelech's son, escaped. 2. A Hittite warrior in David's wilderness army (1 Samuel 26:6 ). 3 . Grandson of 1. and son of Abiathar who served with Zadok as priests under David (2 Samuel 8:17 ).