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Obed-edom

Old TestamentUnited MonarchyMaleA singer

Obed-edom was a Gittite in whose house the Ark of the Covenant stayed for three months, bringing blessings to his household.

Obed-edom illustration
Obed-edom

Biography

Obed-edom the Gittite entered biblical history during one of its most dramatic moments. After the death of Uzzah for touching the Ark of the Covenant during its transport to Jerusalem, a fearful David diverted the Ark to Obed-edom's house, where it remained for three months (2 Samuel 6:10-12). During this period, the Lord abundantly blessed Obed-edom and his entire household, a fact that encouraged David to complete the Ark's journey to Jerusalem. Despite being called a Gittite, suggesting origins from Gath in Philistia, Obed-edom appears in the Chronicler's records as a Levitical musician and gatekeeper who continued serving in the temple worship system (1 Chronicles 15:18-24; 16:5, 38). He was appointed to minister before the Ark with music, playing the lyre, and later served as a gatekeeper for the Ark's permanent dwelling.

Significance

Obed-edom's story powerfully illustrates that the presence of God brings blessing to those who receive it with reverence. Where Uzzah's irreverent touch brought judgment, Obed-edom's willing hospitality brought abundant favor, establishing a clear biblical contrast between presumption and humble reception of God's holiness. His narrative teaches that God's presence is not inherently dangerous but requires proper reverence and ordained approach. The blessings poured upon his household served as tangible evidence that motivated David to complete the Ark's journey to Jerusalem, making Obed-edom an unwitting catalyst for one of the most joyful moments in Israelite worship. His continued Levitical service demonstrates a life permanently transformed by intimate encounter with God's presence.

Authority Records

Verse Appearances (16)

References

  1. Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
  2. Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
  3. Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
  4. Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]

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