5 figures
Fugitive and leader of a band of followers.
David, fleeing from King Saul, gathers a group of distressed, indebted, and discontented men, becoming their leader. He seeks refuge for his parents in Moab and receives guidance from the prophet Gad.
King of Israel, antagonist to David.
Saul, feeling threatened by David, accuses his servants of conspiracy and orders the massacre of the priests of Nob, showing his increasing paranoia and departure from God's ways.
Priest of Nob, victim of Saul's wrath.
Ahimelech, who had previously aided David, is accused of conspiracy by Saul and is executed along with the other priests of Nob, highlighting the tragic consequences of Saul's actions.
Servant of Saul and informant.
Doeg reports to Saul about Ahimelech's assistance to David and carries out the execution of the priests, demonstrating loyalty to Saul but also moral corruption.
Survivor of the massacre, future priest.
Abiathar, the son of Ahimelech, escapes the massacre and joins David, becoming a key priestly figure in David's future reign.