Obed-Edom is a significant biblical figure known for his role as a doorkeeper of the Ark of the Covenant. He is identified as a Korhite Levite, a member of the Levitical family descended from Kohath, one of the three sons of Levi. The Kohathites were entrusted with the care of the most sacred objects of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, which underscores the importance of Obed-Edom's role.

Biblical Account and Role

The narrative of Obed-Edom is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles. His account is closely associated with the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem during the reign of King David. After the tragic death of Uzzah, who was struck down by God for touching the Ark, David decided to temporarily house the Ark in the home of Obed-Edom the Gittite. The Berean Standard Bible records this event in 2 Samuel 6:10-11: "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. Thus the ark of the LORD remained in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite for three months, and the LORD blessed Obed-Edom and all his household."

The presence of the Ark brought divine blessing upon Obed-Edom and his household, a testament to the Ark's sacredness and the favor of God upon those who honor His presence. This blessing was so notable that it was reported to King David, prompting him to bring the Ark to Jerusalem with great rejoicing (2 Samuel 6:12).

Service and Legacy

Obed-Edom's service did not end with the temporary housing of the Ark. He continued to play a significant role in the worship and service of the Lord. According to 1 Chronicles 15:18, Obed-Edom was appointed as a gatekeeper when the Ark was finally brought to Jerusalem: "And with them their brothers of the second rank: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, and Jeiel the gatekeepers."

Furthermore, 1 Chronicles 16:38 mentions Obed-Edom as one of the gatekeepers who ministered before the Ark: "along with Obed-Edom and sixty-eight of his relatives. Obed-Edom son of Jeduthun and Hosah were gatekeepers." His dedication to the service of the Lord is further highlighted in 1 Chronicles 26, where he is listed among the gatekeepers and is noted for having many sons and grandsons who were capable and strong, indicating a legacy of faithful service.

Significance

Obed-Edom's account is a powerful illustration of the blessings that come from honoring and serving God. His willingness to house the Ark and his continued service as a gatekeeper reflect a deep reverence for the sacred and a commitment to the duties entrusted to him as a Levite. The blessings upon his household serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness to those who are faithful to Him. Obed-Edom's legacy is one of devotion, service, and the tangible presence of God's blessing, making him a noteworthy figure in the history of Israel's worship.1 Chronicles 15:18,24
And with them their brothers of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.
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1 Chronicles 26:4-8
Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth.
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Who was Obed-Edom in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Obed in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Questions about People in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org

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