Ozem is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Jesse, the father of King David. His name appears in genealogical records, providing insight into the family lineage from which David, the second king of Israel, emerged. Ozem's role, while not extensively detailed in the biblical narrative, contributes to the understanding of the familial context surrounding one of the most significant figures in biblical history.

Biblical References:

Ozem is mentioned in two primary passages within the Old Testament. The first reference is found in the Book of 1 Chronicles, which provides a genealogical account of the descendants of Judah. In 1 Chronicles 2:13-15 , the text states:

"Jesse was the father of Eliab his firstborn; Abinadab was the second son, Shimea the third, Nethanel the fourth, Raddai the fifth, Ozem the sixth, and David the seventh."

This passage lists Ozem as the sixth son of Jesse, placing him directly in the line of David's brothers. The genealogical record underscores the importance of family lineage in the biblical narrative, highlighting the roots from which David arose.

The second mention of Ozem is found in the Book of 1 Samuel, which also provides a list of Jesse's sons. In 1 Samuel 16:10-11 , the narrative describes the selection of David as king, where Jesse presents his sons to the prophet Samuel:

"Thus Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel told him, 'The LORD has not chosen any of these.' And Samuel asked him, 'Are these all the sons you have?' 'There is still the youngest,' Jesse replied, 'but he is tending the sheep.'"

While Ozem is not named explicitly in this passage, he is implicitly included among the sons presented to Samuel, emphasizing his place within the family.

Historical and Theological Context:

Ozem's mention in the genealogical records serves to establish the historical and familial context of King David's lineage. The genealogies in the Old Testament often serve to trace the fulfillment of God's promises through specific family lines, particularly the line of Judah, from which the Messiah was prophesied to come.

Theologically, the inclusion of Ozem in the biblical record, though brief, reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereign choice and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through seemingly ordinary families. Each member of Jesse's family, including Ozem, played a part in the divine narrative that ultimately led to the establishment of the Davidic dynasty, a central element in the history of Israel and the anticipation of the coming Messiah.

Cultural and Familial Significance:

In the cultural context of ancient Israel, family and lineage were of paramount importance. The genealogical records not only served to preserve historical accuracy but also to affirm the identity and heritage of the people of Israel. Ozem, as a son of Jesse, was part of a family that held significant status due to its connection to David, who was chosen by God to lead His people.

While Ozem himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical accounts, his inclusion in the genealogies highlights the interconnectedness of family members in the unfolding of God's purposes. The mention of Ozem and his brothers serves as a reminder of the humble beginnings from which God often chooses to work, using ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary purposes in His divine plan.1 Chronicles 2:1
These are the sons of Israel; Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun,
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1 Chronicles 15:1
And David made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent.
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How many brothers did King David have? | GotQuestions.org

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