### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻÔwbêd**, represented by `{{H5744}}`, is a proper name meaning **serving**. It appears **10 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is given to five distinct Israelites, with its most prominent use being within the lineage of King David.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the name **ʻÔwbêd** primarily functions as a genealogical marker. The most significant individual named **Obed** is the son of Boaz and the grandfather of David, a crucial link in the royal lineage. This is documented in the book of Ruth, where the neighboring women name the child born to Naomi's family, saying, "they called his name **Obed**: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David" [[Ruth 4:17]]. This lineage is restated in [[Ruth 4:21-22]] and [[1 Chronicles 2:12]]. Other individuals named **Obed** include the father of Azariah, a captain who made a covenant with Jehoiada [[2 Chronicles 23:1]], a descendant of Zabad [[1 Chronicles 2:37-38]], one of David's mighty men [[1 Chronicles 11:47]], and a strong man among the sons of Shemaiah [[1 Chronicles 26:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used in close proximity to establish the context and relationships surrounding the individuals named **ʻÔwbêd**:
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young; causatively, to beget): This root is fundamental to the genealogical passages where **Obed** is mentioned, repeatedly used in phrases like "and Boaz begat **Obed**" [[Ruth 4:21]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word defines the direct relationships of those named **Obed**. For instance, it identifies Azariah as "the son of **Obed**" [[2 Chronicles 23:1]] and lists **Obed** among "the sons of Shemaiah" [[1 Chronicles 26:7]].
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This term solidifies the generational role of the most notable **Obed**, explicitly stating he is "the father of Jesse, the father of David" [[Ruth 4:17]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (a brother): This word defines kinship for one of the men named **Obed**, who is listed with his "brethren [who] were strong men" [[1 Chronicles 26:7]], showing his place within a family group.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5744}}` is primarily rooted in its genealogical placements, which establish key connections in Israelite history.
* **Link in the Davidic Lineage:** The most prominent **Obed** serves as the essential generational link connecting Boaz to King David. His birth is a pivotal event in the narrative of Ruth, securing the family line ([[Ruth 4:17]], [[Ruth 4:22]]).
* **Marker of Identity:** The name appears across different families and contexts, identifying a descendant of Zabad [[1 Chronicles 2:37]], the father of a military captain [[2 Chronicles 23:1]], and one of David's own mighty men [[1 Chronicles 11:47]].
* **Association with Strength:** In one instance, an **Obed** is listed among "strong men," alongside his brethren [[1 Chronicles 26:7]], which aligns with the name's root meaning of "serving" and suggests a reputation for capability.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5744}}` is a proper name that, while used for several individuals, carries its greatest weight as a key name in the ancestry of King David. Its appearances across scripture are vital for tracing lineage and identifying specific figures of service and strength within Israel. The name **ʻÔwbêd** demonstrates how a personal name functions within the biblical record to anchor historical narratives and establish foundational family lines.
TRV