17. Then the king ordered the guards standing by him, “Turn and kill the priests of the Lord because they sided with David. For they knew he was fleeing, but they didn’t tell me.” But the king’s servants would not lift a hand to execute the priests of the Lord.
18. So the king said to Doeg, “Go and execute the priests! ” So Doeg the Edomite went and executed the priests himself. On that day, he killed 85 men who wore linen ephods.
19. He also struck down Nob, the city of the priests, with the sword — both men and women, children and infants, oxen, donkeys, and sheep.
20. However, one of the sons of Ahimelech son of Ahitub escaped. His name was Abiathar, and he fled to David.
21. Abiathar told David that Saul had killed the priests of the Lord.
22. Then David said to Abiathar, “I knew that Doeg the Edomite was there that day and that he was sure to report to Saul. I myself am responsible for the lives of everyone in your father’s family.
23. Stay with me. Don’t be afraid, for the one who wants to take my life wants to take your life. You will be safe with me.”