Who was Obed in the Bible?

Man living at the time of Divided Monarchy

Obed is a person mentioned in the Bible in 1 Chronicles 2:37-38. He was a man of the tribe of Judah who lived during the time of the Divided Monarchy. Obed was the son of Ephlal and the father of Jehu.

From a biblical point of view, Obed’s mention in the Bible serves to highlight the genealogy and lineage of the people of Judah. The tribe of Judah held a significant place in Israel’s history as it was from this tribe that the line of David and ultimately Jesus Christ would come.

The genealogies in the Bible are important as they trace the lineages of key figures and help establish the legitimacy and continuity of God’s covenant promises. Obed’s inclusion in the genealogy signifies his place within the history and lineage of the people of God.

As with many genealogical records in the Bible, the mention of Obed may seem brief and straightforward, but it is a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His people throughout generations. Every individual, no matter how seemingly insignificant, plays a part in God’s grand plan and purposes.

In studying Obed’s story, we are encouraged to appreciate the importance of every individual in God’s plan and to recognize the faithfulness of God in preserving and fulfilling His promises through the generations.

References:
1 Chronicles 2:37-38 – Obed’s wife was Jehiel, and he was the father of Jesse; Jesse was the father of Jephthah, Jephthah the father of Elihu, and Elihu the father of Jeroham. Jeroham was the father of Elkanah and Elkanah the father of Samuel.