### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Ōbḗd**, represented by `{{G5601}}`, is a proper name for **Obed**, an Israelite. Of Hebrew origin, the name appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the New Testament. Its significance is derived entirely from its place within biblical genealogies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5601}}` appears exclusively to establish lineage. The name is found in the genealogies of Jesus recorded in both Matthew and Luke. In Matthew's account, the lineage is stated directly: "Booz begat **Obed** of Ruth; and **Obed** begat Jesse" [[Matthew 1:5]]. Luke's account confirms this same ancestral link, tracing the lineage backward: "Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of **Obed**, which was the son of Booz" [[Luke 3:32]]. In both instances, Obed's role is to serve as a vital connection between his well-known father and his significant son.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words define the genealogical context in which **Ōbḗd** is found:
* `{{G1003}}` **Boóz**: This name refers to Booz, an Israelite who is identified as the father of Obed ([[Matthew 1:5]], [[Luke 3:32]]).
* `{{G1080}}` **gennáō**: This verb means "to procreate" or "beget." It is the action that links the generations together in Matthew's genealogy, as in "Booz **begat** Obed" and "Obed **begat** Jesse" [[Matthew 1:5]].
* `{{G2421}}` **Iessaí**: The name for Jesse, an Israelite who is the son of Obed [[Matthew 1:5]]. He is a critical figure, identified as the father of David the king [[Matthew 1:6]] and the one from whom a "root" would rise to reign [[Romans 15:12]].
* `{{G4533}}` **Salmṓn**: This refers to Salmon, an Israelite who was the father of Booz [[Matthew 1:5]] and therefore the grandfather of Obed.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5601}}` is tied directly to its role in the Messianic lineage.
* **Genealogical Integrity:** Obed's presence in two separate gospel accounts ([[Matthew 1:5]], [[Luke 3:32]]) confirms his specific place in the ancestral line of Jesus, connecting the patriarchal lines from Booz to Jesse.
* **Bridge to David's Line:** While not a prominent figure himself, Obed is the father of Jesse `{{G2421}}`. This makes him the grandfather of King David, a central figure in Israel's history and a key ancestor of the Messiah. His existence is essential for the line to progress toward David.
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** Obed's role as the father of Jesse is foundational to prophecies cited by Esaias, which speak of a "root of Jesse" who would reign over the Gentiles [[Romans 15:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5601}}` **Ōbḗd** is significant not for any recorded actions or dialogue, but for his indispensable position in salvation history. His name serves a single, crucial function: to be the link between Booz and Jesse. By being the son of the former and the father of the latter ([[Matthew 1:5]], [[Luke 3:32]]), Obed secures a vital connection in the genealogy that runs through King David and culminates in Jesus Christ.
TRV