Nob
Nob is an ancient city mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the region of Judea in modern-day Israel. Known today as Ras el Mesharif. It appears across 7 verses in Scripture.
Biblical History
Nob, described as a "city of the priests" (1 Samuel 22:19), holds a tragic place in Israel's history. When David fled from King Saul, he came to Nob and sought provisions from Ahimelech the priest, who gave him the consecrated bread of the Presence and the sword of Goliath (1 Samuel 21:1-9). Jesus later cited this episode to defend his disciples' Sabbath grain-picking (Mark 2:25-26). When Saul learned of Ahimelech's assistance, he ordered the execution of Nob's priests. When his soldiers refused, Doeg the Edomite slaughtered 85 priests and then destroyed the entire city, including women, children, and livestock (1 Samuel 22:18-19). Only Abiathar escaped, fleeing to David. This massacre became one of the darkest episodes of Saul's reign, demonstrating his descent into tyranny. Nob also appears in Isaiah 10:32, where the Assyrian invader is depicted shaking his fist at Jerusalem from Nob, and in Nehemiah 11:32 among towns resettled after the Babylonian exile, indicating eventual restoration.
Archaeological & Historical Notes
Nob's precise location remains debated, though it is generally placed on or near Mount Scopus, northeast of Jerusalem, consistent with Isaiah 10:32's description of it as a vantage point from which one could see the Temple Mount. The traditional identification with Ras el-Mesharif (also known as el-Isawiyeh) places it on the ridge overlooking Jerusalem from the north-northeast. This location fits the narrative requirements: close enough to Jerusalem for priestly service at the Tabernacle, yet a distinct settlement. No definitive archaeological remains have been identified specifically with Nob, as the area has been heavily built over in modern times. The site's proximity to Jerusalem and its elevation make it consistent with the biblical descriptions of the city as visible from the approaching Assyrian army's route.
Verse Appearances (7)
Sources: ISBE Encyclopedia · OpenBible Geocoding (CC BY) · Pleiades Gazetteer View all →