Why did Saul refer to Ahimelech as the son of Ahitub?
1 Samuel 22:12 (ESV)
12And Saul said, “Hear now, son of Ahitub.” And he answered, “Here I am, my lord.”
Similar to Saul’s references to David as the son of Jesse (1 Samuel 22:7–8), he referred to Ahimelech as the son of Ahitub most likely because there was some distrust and distance on Saul’s part.1 Ahimelech, however, was loyal to Saul and stood before him with a clear conscience.2
12 And Saul said, “Hear now, son of Ahitub.” And he answered, “Here I am, my lord.”