1 SAMUEL—NOTE ON 1 Samuel 21:4 Common bread, which might be eaten by anyone, is distinguished from holy bread, which, like sacrifices, could be eaten only by the “clean” (e.g., Leviticus 10:10). Sexual contact was one source of uncleanness (Exodus 19:15; Leviticus 15:18), especially on a military expedi­tion (see 2 Samuel 11:9; on the terms “clean” and “unclean,” see Introduction to Leviticus, Problems in Understanding Leviticus). The “holy bread” was the bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:30; Leviticus 24:5). Ahimelech was bending the rules, since only priests were allowed to eat the bread, and only in a holy place. However, Jesus endorsed Ahimelech’s judgment in responding with mercy rather than strict adherence to the ceremonial law.

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