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Bible Insights

Biblical People: Obed

Son of Boaz & Ruth and Grandfather of King David

Obed (1) is Boaz and Ruth’s first son. Though Ruth was first married to Mahlon, they had no children. The Bible doesn’t mention Boaz and Ruth having any more children, so he may be an only child.

His grandmother is Naomi.

The women in the village praise God for Obed’s birth. They bless him and proclaim that he will become famous throughout the land.

Though we don’t know if Obed himself becomes famous, we do know that his grandson—King David—becomes well known and a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14 and Acts 13:22). David indeed becomes famous.

And Jesus descends from Obed many centuries later. Jesus is even more famous.

What are we known for?

What can we do to prepare our children to do amazing things for God?

[Read about Obed in Ruth 4:13–22. Discover more in Matthew 1:5.]

Learn about 100 more biblical characters in More Old Testament Sinners and Saints, available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Get your copy today.

More Old Testament Sinners and Saints: Discover 100 Little-Known but Intriguing Bible Characters

More Old Testament Sinners and Saints is part of the Bible Character Sketches series.

Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront a status quo faith and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.

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