or עֹבַדְיָהוּ; active participle of עָבַד and יָהּ; serving Jah; Obadjah, the name of thirteen Israelites; Obadiah.
Transliteration:ʻÔbadyâh
Pronunciation:o-bad-yaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H5662}}` (ʻÔbadyâh), often appearing also as ʻÔbadyâhuw, is a theophoric proper name. Its core meaning is derived from two components: the active participle of the verb `{{H5647}}` (ʻābad), meaning "to serve, to work, to worship," and `{{H3050}}` (Yāh), a shortened form of the divine name YHWH (`{{H3068}}`). Thus, ʻÔbadyâh literally translates to "Serving Yah" or "Servant of Yahweh." The active participle form emphasizes an ongoing state or action, portraying the individual as one who is actively and continually engaged in serving God. The semantic range is therefore tightly focused on this concept of devotion, allegiance, and service to the God of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H5662}}` is borne by thirteen different individuals in the Hebrew Bible, indicating its commonality and the significance of its meaning within Israelite culture. Among these, two figures stand out prominently:
1. **Obadiah the Prophet:** The author of the shortest book in the Old Testament, the Book of Obadiah. His prophecy is primarily a declaration of divine judgment against Edom for their violence against Judah. His very name, "Servant of Yahweh," underscores his role as a messenger and instrument of God's sovereign will, delivering a message that reflects God's justice and ultimate vindication of His people ([[Obadiah 1:1]]).
2. **Obadiah, Steward of Ahab:** This Obadiah is described as a man who "feared the Lord greatly" ([[1 Kings 18:3]]). In a period of intense idolatry under King Ahab and Jezebel, Obadiah courageously hid and fed one hundred prophets of the Lord, demonstrating profound loyalty and service to Yahweh despite immense personal risk ([[1 Kings 18:4-16]]). His actions perfectly embody the meaning of his name, showcasing active service to God even in a hostile environment.
Other notable occurrences include:
* A prince sent by King Jehoshaphat to teach the Law in the cities of Judah ([[2 Chronicles 17:7]]).
* A Levite gatekeeper in the time of Nehemiah ([[1 Chronicles 9:16]]).
* A chief of the Gadites who joined David at Ziklag ([[1 Chronicles 12:9]]).
* An overseer of the workers during the repair of the temple under Josiah ([[2 Chronicles 34:12]]).
* One who returned with Ezra from Babylon ([[Ezra 8:9]]).
Across these various contexts, the name `{{H5662}}` consistently points to individuals who, in some capacity, are depicted as faithful to God or are in positions of responsibility that imply service to the community, often under divine sanction.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic root related to `{{H5662}}` is `{{H5647}}` (ʻābad), the verb "to serve." This root is foundational to understanding various forms of service in ancient Israel, including:
* **Labor/Work:** As in tilling the ground ([[Genesis 2:15]]).
* **Slavery/Bondage:** As in serving a master ([[Exodus 21:2]]).
* **Worship/Religious Service:** This is particularly relevant, encompassing the service of priests and Levites ([[Numbers 3:7]]) and the general worship of God ([[Exodus 4:23]]).
The noun form `{{H5650}}` (ʻeved), meaning "servant" or "slave," is also directly related. While ʻeved denotes the *status* of a servant, ʻÔbadyâh (using the active participle) emphasizes the *action* or *character* of one who serves.
The divine element `{{H3050}}` (Yāh) connects ʻÔbadyâh to the broader category of theophoric names in the Bible, which frequently incorporate Yāh or Yĕhô- (e.g., Isaiah, Jeremiah, Jonathan). These names serve as miniature theological declarations, affirming God's nature or the individual's relationship with Him.
The concept of "service" (ʻavodah) is a cornerstone of Israelite theology, encompassing not only ritual worship but also obedience to God's commands and ethical living. Obadiah's name is a personal embodiment of this profound theological concept.
### Theological Significance
The name `{{H5662}}` carries significant theological weight, reflecting core tenets of biblical faith:
1. **Identity in Service:** For an Israelite, bearing the name "Servant of Yahweh" could be a profound statement of identity, signifying that one's very being and purpose were found in devotion to the Lord. It suggests that true human flourishing is realized in a life consecrated to divine service.
2. **Faithfulness and Obedience:** The examples of the prophet Obadiah and Ahab's steward illustrate that "serving Yahweh" often involves faithfulness in challenging circumstances. It speaks to the active choice to obey God's commands and to uphold His will, even when it demands courage and sacrifice.
3. **Divine Calling and Commission:** Especially in the case of the prophet, the name underscores the idea of being divinely called and commissioned. A "servant of Yahweh" is one who speaks for God and acts on His behalf, carrying His authority and message.
4. **Theocentricity:** The name inherently points to God as the ultimate object of service. It declares God's sovereignty and humanity's proper posture of humble devotion and worship before Him. It is a reminder that all true service ultimately redounds to the glory of God.
5. **Covenant Relationship:** Within the covenant framework, Israel was called to be God's servant people. Individuals named Obadiah often exemplify this national calling on a personal level, living out the covenant ideal of exclusive loyalty and service to Yahweh.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H5662}}` (ʻÔbadyâh), meaning "Serving Yah" or "Servant of Yahweh," is a significant theophoric name derived from the verb `{{H5647}}` ("to serve") and the divine name `{{H3050}}` (Yāh). It was a common name in ancient Israel, borne by thirteen individuals, most notably the prophet Obadiah and the faithful steward of King Ahab. The name profoundly encapsulates the ideal of a life dedicated to God, emphasizing active and continuous devotion. Theologically, ʻÔbadyâh highlights that identity and purpose are found in service to the Divine, underscoring faithfulness amidst adversity, divine calling, and the theocentric nature of a life lived in covenant with the Lord. It serves as a constant reminder of humanity's proper relationship with the sovereign God.
TRV