Why does Mark's Gospel mention Abiathar the high priest?

Question

This is a mistake. In Mark 2:26 it mentions a story found in 1 Samuel 22, but there it says the priest's name was Ahimelech. So did Jesus make the mistake, or Mark? Notice that Matthew's Gospel, which used Mark as a source, 'fixes' Mark's mistake by leaving out the high priest's name (Matt. 12:4).

Just a few additional details for some who answered poorly:

Ahimelech and Abiathar are different names.

The high priesthood was hereditary. If Abiathar were still alive, Ahimelech would not be high priest.

If you are going to try to defend the Bible's accuracy, you have to actually be familiar with its contents on more than a superficial level.

Answer 1

The likelihood of Jesus actually saying the line at all is pretty low. Most of the material in the Gospels is made up to further the Christian cause. Remember, it was written long after Jesus was dead.

Answer 2

1. You "assume" that Matthew used Mark as a source.
2. Why "must" Matthew name the priest in order for the account to be accurate?

See 2 Samuel 2:17-Abaithar is the father of Ahimelech. They were both priest at the same time. How do you figure it is a mistake? You have obviously overlooked several scriptures. See also 1 Chronicles 24:6

Answer 3

>> Why does Mark's Gospel mention Abiathar the high priest?
Perhaps, a better question to ask is why Ahimilech was not wearing the ephod in the sanctuary, if he truly was the high priest? (1Sa 21:9)

Answer 4

The Old Testament was written in Hebrew
The New Testament was written in Greek.
Name are spelled and spoken differently in different languages.
For example, the English name Peter is the same as the Spanish name Pedro, or the English name Mary the same as the Latin/Italian/Spanish name Maria.

Ahimelech is the Hebrew version of the name, and Abiathar the Greek version of the same name.

Answer 5

There was more than ONE priest, you know. Maybe it is a clerical error or, more reasonably a changed name. Many in the Bible changed their names for whatever reasons. And I believe, (Simon) Peter was the master of (John) Mark, and Matthew (Levi) , who were of the 12 apostles . Please see Mark 2:14. and Luke 6:13-16. and Acts 1:13.