Gath, one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, holds a significant place in biblical history. It is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as a city of considerable strength and influence. Gath is perhaps most famously known as the hometown of Goliath, the giant warrior defeated by David (1 Samuel 17:4). The city's strategic location and formidable defenses made it a key player in the power dynamics of the region.

Obed-Edom and His Connection to Gath

Obed-Edom is a biblical figure whose association with Gath is noted in the context of the Ark of the Covenant. After the tragic death of Uzzah, who was struck down by God for touching the Ark, King David decided to temporarily house the Ark in the home of Obed-Edom the Gittite (2 Samuel 6:10). The term "Gittite" indicates that Obed-Edom was from Gath, suggesting a Philistine origin or at least a strong connection to the city.

The Ark remained in the house of Obed-Edom for three months, during which time the Lord blessed Obed-Edom and all his household (2 Samuel 6:11). This period of blessing was significant enough to be reported to King David, prompting him to bring the Ark to Jerusalem with great rejoicing (2 Samuel 6:12).

Obed-Edom's Role and Legacy

Obed-Edom's role in the biblical narrative extends beyond merely housing the Ark. He is later mentioned as a gatekeeper and musician in the service of the Ark (1 Chronicles 15:18, 21, 24). His dedication to the service of the Lord is further highlighted in 1 Chronicles 26, where he is listed as a gatekeeper and is noted for having many sons and grandsons, all of whom were capable and strong men (1 Chronicles 26:4-8).

The blessings upon Obed-Edom and his family are seen as a testament to God's favor upon those who honor Him and His presence. His account serves as an example of how God can use individuals from diverse backgrounds, even those with connections to historically adversarial cities like Gath, to fulfill His purposes.

Biblical References

· Gath as a Philistine City: "Then a champion named Goliath, who was from Gath, came out from the Philistine camp. He was six cubits and a span in height." (1 Samuel 17:4)
· Obed-Edom and the Ark: "So David was unwilling to move the ark of the LORD to the City of David; instead, he took it to the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite." (2 Samuel 6:10)
· Blessing of Obed-Edom: "The ark of the LORD remained in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite for three months, and the LORD blessed him and all his household." (2 Samuel 6:11)
· Service in the Temple: "Obed-Edom and his sixty-eight relatives were to minister with them. Obed-Edom son of Jeduthun and Hosah were gatekeepers." (1 Chronicles 16:38)

Obed-Edom's account is a powerful reminder of the inclusivity of God's grace and the blessings that come from faithful service to Him. His connection to Gath, a city often seen as an enemy of Israel, underscores the transformative power of God's presence and the unity found in worship and service.2 Samuel 6:10
So David would not remove the ark of the LORD to him into the city of David: but David carried it aside into the house of Obededom the Gittite.
Nave's Topical Index

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Ekron and Gath kept watch over the eastern side of the plain at the points where
it was most exposed to the attacks of the people of the hills"the Canaanites ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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