Obed

Q: Why is Obed significant?

Obed connects Ruth's story to David and Jesus. He is David's grandfather (Ruth 4:17, 22) and appears in Jesus' genealogy (Matthew 1:5). Through Obed, a Moabite woman (Ruth) entered the messianic line—showing God's grace extends beyond ethnic boundaries.

Son of Ruth and Boaz, Grandfather of David

Old Testament

Obed was the son of Ruth and Boaz, born after their redemptive marriage. Naomi became his nurse and the women of Bethlehem rejoiced. He became the father of Jesse and grandfather of King David, placing him in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

Character Traits

Link in messianic lineRestorerServant

Life Timeline

Birthc. 1100 BC

Obed is born to Ruth and Boaz.

RUT 4:13-17

Named by Neighborsc. 1100 BC

The neighbor women name him Obed, meaning 'servant.'

RUT 4:17

Naomi's Joyc. 1100 BC

Naomi becomes Obed's nurse; he restores her life.

RUT 4:15-16

Father of Jessec. 1070 BC

Obed becomes the father of Jesse.

RUT 4:17, 22

Key Relationships

RuthFamily

Mother - Ruth the Moabitess was Obed's mother.

BoazFamily

Father - Boaz the kinsman-redeemer was Obed's father.

NaomiFamily

Grandmother - Naomi was restored through Obed.

Key Locations

Bethlehem

Where Obed was born and raised.

Spiritual Lessons

Unexpected Ancestors

Obed's mother was a Moabite convert, his father a man who broke social barriers. Yet from this 'unlikely' union came David's grandfather and ultimately Jesus. God's plan includes unexpected people. No background disqualifies someone from significance in God's story.

Key Verses

Ruth 4:13-17 Ruth 4:21-22 Matthew 1:5

Frequently Asked Questions

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