Obil אוֹבִיל
Overseer of David's camels
Who is Obil in the Bible?
Obil was an Ishmaelite official in King David's administration who served as the overseer of the royal camels, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 27:30. His appointment to this position reflects David's practice of delegating specialized responsibilities to individuals with particular expertise and backgrounds. As an Ishmaelite, Obil brought valuable knowledge of camel husbandry to the role, since camels were essential assets for transportation and trade throughout the ancient Near East. His inclusion in David's administrative roster demonstrates the king's administrative sophistication and his willingness to employ skilled personnel from diverse ethnic backgrounds to manage his extensive wealth and resources.
Biography
Obil was an Ishmaelite who served as the overseer of King David's camels (1Ch.27.30). He was one of the officials appointed by David to manage various aspects of his royal holdings. As an Ishmaelite, Obil likely had extensive knowledge of camels, which were important for transportation and trade in the region. His role demonstrates the diversity of David's administration and the king's willingness to employ skilled individuals from various backgrounds.
In Scripture
1 biblical book1 Chronicles 1 verse
- 1 Chronicles 27:30
"Obil the Ishmaelite was in charge of the camels. Jehdeiah the Meronothite was in charge of the donkeys."
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | אוֹבִיל |
Obil
e "to make opposition," but formerly in a variety of meanings derived from the literal sense "to throw against." So with the meaning "to charge with" in The Wisdom of Solomon 2:12, th