Obed עוֹבֵד
Son of Boaz and Ruth
Who is Obed in the Bible?
Obed was the son of Boaz and Ruth, born in Bethlehem as recorded in Ruth 4:17. His birth marked the restoration of Naomi's family line after a period of loss and hardship, fulfilling the promise of a kinsman-redeemer through Boaz's marriage to Ruth. Obed became the father of Jesse and grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:21-22, 1 Chronicles 2:12), placing him in the direct ancestral line leading to Jesus Christ. His name means "servant" or "worshiper," reflecting themes of faithfulness and devotion that characterize his family's legacy. Though Scripture provides few details about Obed's personal life, his significance lies entirely in his role as a link in God's redemptive plan, connecting the humble story of Ruth to the royal house of David and ultimately to the Messiah.
Biography
Obed was the son of Boaz and Ruth, born in Bethlehem (Rut.4.17). His birth was a significant event in the story of Ruth, as it marked the restoration of Naomi's family line and the continuation of the lineage that would eventually lead to King David. Obed was the father of Jesse and the grandfather of David (Rut.4.21-22; 1Ch.2.12; Mat.1.5; Luk.3.32). His name means "servant" or "worshiper," possibly reflecting his family's devotion to God. Obed's life is not detailed in the Bible, but his role in the genealogy of David and ultimately Jesus Christ highlights the importance of his place in God's plan.
Family
In Scripture
4 biblical books ; 2 with study contentRuth 3 verses
- Ruth 4:17
"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."
- Ruth 4:21
"Salmon was the father of Boaz, Boaz was the father of Obed,"
- Ruth 4:22
"Obed was the father of Jesse, and Jesse was the father of David."
1 Chronicles 1 verse
- 1 Chronicles 2:12
"Boaz was the father of Obed, and Obed was the father of Jesse."
Matthew 1 verse
- Matthew 1:5
"Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse,"
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Luke 1 verse
- Luke 3:32
"the son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Boaz, the son of Sala, the son of Nahshon,"
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Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | עוֹבֵד |
| Greek | Greek | Ὠβήδ |