Obal is a relatively obscure figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. He is listed as one of the sons of Joktan, a descendant of Shem, who was one of Noah's three sons. The primary biblical reference to Obal is found in the Book of Genesis:

Biblical Reference:
· Genesis 10:28 : "Obal, Abimael, Sheba,"

Genealogical Context:
Obal is part of the Table of Nations, a genealogical record found in Genesis 10, which outlines the descendants of Noah's sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. This chapter is significant as it traces the origins of various nations and peoples following the Great Flood. Obal, as a son of Joktan, is a descendant of Shem, through Arphaxad and Eber, making him part of the Semitic lineage.

Historical and Geographical Considerations:
The descendants of Joktan, including Obal, are traditionally associated with the regions of the Arabian Peninsula. While specific historical records about Obal himself are scarce, the Joktanite tribes are believed to have settled in the southern parts of Arabia. This area is known for its ancient trade routes and rich cultural history, which may have been influenced by the descendants of Joktan.

Cultural and Theological Significance:
In the broader biblical narrative, the genealogies serve to establish the lineage of various peoples and highlight the fulfillment of God's promises to Noah and his descendants. Obal's inclusion in the genealogy underscores the diversity and spread of humanity post-Flood, as well as the interconnectedness of different tribes and nations.

Theologically, the genealogies, including the mention of Obal, emphasize the providence and sovereignty of God in the unfolding of human history. They serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant through whom His purposes would be accomplished, ultimately leading to the coming of the Messiah through the line of Shem.

Linguistic Notes:
The name "Obal" is of uncertain etymology, and its meaning is not definitively known. In some translations and manuscripts, variations of the name appear, reflecting the challenges of transliterating ancient names across languages and cultures.

Conclusion:
While Obal is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his mention in the genealogies of Genesis contributes to the broader understanding of the post-Flood world and the dispersion of peoples. His inclusion in the lineage of Joktan highlights the rich tapestry of human history as recorded in the Scriptures.Genesis 10:28
And Obal, and Abimael, and Sheba,
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 1:22
And Ebal, and Abimael, and Sheba,
Nave's Topical Index

5745. Obal -- a son of Joktan, also his desc.
... NASB Word Usage Obal (1). Obal. Of foreign derivation; Obal, a son of Joktan --
Obal. 5744, 5745. Obal. 5746 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/5745.htm - 5k

Chapter x
... to suppose that Shem was the youngest son of Noah ... And Joktan begat Almodad and Sheleph
and Hazarmaveth and ... and Hadoram and Uzal and Diklah; and Obal and Abimael ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter x.htm

[Endnotes]
... the fifth Philip, the ninth James the son of Alpheus ... Peleg, Gether,"Sabtah, Lehabim,
Jebusite, Joktan, Mash ... Obal, " Abimael, " Sheba, " Ophir, " Havilah, " Jobab ...
//christianbookshelf.org/killen/the ancient church/endnotes.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... "There are three that can bear record in heaven" (1 John 5:7-9). These three are
called "the Father, the Son [Word], and the Holy Spirit"; each of which is ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

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