Nob
LocationsGeographical Setting
Nob was an ancient Israelite priestly city located near Jerusalem, serving as a sanctuary for priests during the early monarchy.
What is the meaning of Nob in the Bible?
Nob was an ancient priestly town where David found refuge and succor with Ahimelech, but was later destroyed by Saul's vengeance. The site of Nob has not been definitively identified.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Nob provides context for the narrative of David's flight from Saul, highlighting the vulnerability of the priestly class and the political tensions within the early Israelite monarchy.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Nob (located near modern Nabi Samwil, Jerusalem) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Nob in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Nob clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Nob." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/nob/