Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Obed is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, primarily known as the son of Boaz and Ruth and the grandfather of King David. His account is a testament to God's providence and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through the lineage of David, ultimately leading to the birth of Jesus Christ. Biblical Account: Obed's account is primarily found in the Book of Ruth. After the death of her husband and sons, Naomi returns to Bethlehem with her Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth. Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her faith in the God of Israel lead her to glean in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi's late husband. Boaz, recognizing Ruth's devotion and virtue, acts as her kinsman-redeemer, marrying her to preserve the family line. The union of Boaz and Ruth results in the birth of Obed. Ruth 4:13-17 records this joyous event: "So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And when he had relations with her, the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. Then the women said to Naomi, 'Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a kinsman-redeemer. May his name become famous in Israel. He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.' And Naomi took the child, placed him on her lap, and became a nurse to him. The neighbor women said, 'A son has been born to Naomi,' and they named him Obed. He became the father of Jesse, the father of David." Genealogical Significance: Obed holds a crucial place in the genealogy of David, as outlined in the Book of Ruth and reiterated in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles 2:12 and Matthew 1:5. His birth signifies the continuation of the line that would lead to Israel's greatest king, David, and ultimately to Jesus Christ, the Messiah. This lineage underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Cultural and Theological Context: The account of Obed is set during the time of the judges, a period marked by social and spiritual turmoil in Israel. The narrative of Ruth and Boaz, culminating in the birth of Obed, serves as a beacon of hope and divine intervention. It highlights the inclusion of a Gentile, Ruth, into the covenant community, foreshadowing the universal scope of God's salvation plan. Theologically, Obed's role in the Davidic line emphasizes the importance of covenant faithfulness and God's ability to work through ordinary people to achieve His extraordinary purposes. The account of Obed, Boaz, and Ruth is a powerful reminder of God's grace and the transformative power of redemption. Legacy: Obed's legacy is primarily seen through his descendants. As the grandfather of David, Obed is part of the foundation upon which the Davidic dynasty is built. His life and lineage are celebrated in the context of God's unfolding plan for Israel and the world. The birth of Obed is a pivotal moment that connects the patriarchal promises to the establishment of the Davidic kingdom and the eventual coming of the Savior, Jesus Christ. Nave's Topical Index Ruth 4:17-22And the women her neighbors gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 2:12 Matthew 1:5 Luke 3:32 Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Who was Obed in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Obed-Edom in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the story of Ruth and Boaz? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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