Whedon's Commentary on the Bible - 1 Samuel 21:5
5. Since I came out Upon this secret business of the king. The conjunction and, which immediately follows these words, shows that they belong to the preceding sentence. David falsely tells Ahimelech that about three days had already passed since he started upon the king’s business. The vessels of the young men are holy By their vessels their bodies are intended their persons. This word is thus used in 1 Thessalonians 4:4, and 2 Corinthians 4:7; and in this same verse it is again used... read more
Whedon's Commentary on the Bible - 1 Samuel 21:4
4. Common bread Bread not consecrated; such as might lawfully be eaten by ordinary persons. Hallowed bread That is, the showbread, which it was unlawful for any but the priests to eat. Exodus 29:32; Leviticus 24:9. If the young men have kept themselves… from women If they take of the hallowed bread, it is necessary that they should be at least ceremonially clean in the matter here specified. Sexual intercourse made a person unfit for contact with holy things. Exodus 19:15; Leviticus... read more