### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek proper noun Ὠβήδ (Ōbḗd), Strong's G5601, is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name עוֹבֵד (Obed), Strong's `{{H5744}}`. The Hebrew root from which Obed is derived is עָבַד (avad, `{{H5647}}`), meaning "to serve," "to work," or "to worship." Therefore, the name Obed carries the semantic meaning of "serving," "worshipper," or "worker." As a proper noun, its primary function is to identify a specific individual within biblical genealogies, yet the inherent meaning of the name subtly reflects themes of devotion and service.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, Ὠβήδ (Ōbḗd) appears exclusively in the genealogies of Jesus Christ. These occurrences are found in:
* [[Matthew 1:5]]: "Salmon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth, Obed begot Jesse, and Jesse begot David the king."
* [[Luke 3:32]]: "the son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Boaz, the son of Salmon, the son of Nahshon..."
In both instances, Obed is identified as the son of Boaz and Ruth, and the father of Jesse, who was the father of King David. His placement in these genealogies is critical, establishing him as a vital link in the lineage leading directly to the Messiah. His story is more fully developed in the Old Testament Book of Ruth, where his birth brings joy and hope to Naomi and signifies the continuation of the family line, particularly within the context of the levirate marriage customs. His existence ensures the perpetuation of the messianic promise through the tribe of Judah.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the Hebrew root עָבַד (avad, `{{H5647}}`), from which Obed's name is derived. This root is foundational in biblical theology, encompassing concepts such as:
* **Service:** Both to God and to fellow humans (e.g., עֶבֶד (eved, `{{H5650}}`), "servant").
* **Worship:** As an act of devoted service to God.
* **Work/Labor:** The physical and spiritual exertion involved in fulfilling one's calling.
Other names derived from or related to עָבַד include Obadiah ("servant of Yahweh"), Abdeel ("servant of God"), and Ebed-Melech ("servant of the king"). The connection of Obed's name to these concepts underscores a life potentially characterized by service or, more significantly, a life divinely ordained to serve a greater purpose within God's redemptive plan.
### Theological Significance
Obed's theological significance is multifaceted, stemming from his pivotal role in the messianic lineage and the meaning of his name.
1. **Messianic Link:** His primary importance lies in being the direct grandfather of King David, thus a crucial ancestor of Jesus Christ. His birth, recorded in the book of Ruth, is presented as a divine blessing and a fulfillment of God's promise to preserve a righteous line through which the Redeemer would come.
2. **Divine Providence:** Obed's existence is a testament to God's sovereign hand guiding human affairs. Born to Ruth, a Moabitess, and Boaz, a faithful Israelite, his life demonstrates God's ability to work through unexpected circumstances and individuals, including Gentiles, to achieve His redemptive purposes.
3. **Meaning of the Name:** The name "serving" or "worshipper" subtly points to the character expected of those in God's covenant line. It can be seen as an echo of the faithful service of his parents, Ruth and Boaz, and a foreshadowing of the ultimate "Servant" (Isaiah 53) who would come from his lineage. It emphasizes that those who are part of God's plan are often characterized by humble service and devotion.
4. **Inclusion of Gentiles:** Obed's mother, Ruth, being a Moabitess, highlights the inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan, foreshadowing the eventual inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant family through Christ.
### Summary
Ὠβήδ (Ōbḗd), Strong's G5601, derived from the Hebrew for "serving" or "worshipper," is a proper noun identifying a key figure in the biblical genealogies. He is known as the son of Boaz and Ruth and the grandfather of King David, making him a critical link in the lineage of Jesus Christ, as cited in [[Matthew 1:5]] and [[Luke 3:32]]. His life, though briefly detailed, underscores profound theological truths: God's divine providence in guiding the messianic line, the significance of humble service, and the early demonstration of God's inclusive plan for both Jew and Gentile in His redemptive history.
TRV