Shobal

Shobal is a significant figure in the genealogies of the Old Testament, particularly within the lineage of the Edomites and the tribe of Judah. He is identified as a son of Seir the Horite, and his descendants are associated with the Horites, who inhabited the land of Seir before the Edomites (Genesis 36:20). Shobal is also mentioned as a son of Caleb, the son of Hur, who was a descendant of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:50-52).

The descendants of Shobal are noted for their role in the development of the region and their contributions to the tribal structure of Israel. In 1 Chronicles 2:52, Shobal is described as the father of Kiriath-jearim, a city that played a significant role in Israel's history, particularly as a resting place for the Ark of the Covenant before it was moved to Jerusalem by King David (1 Samuel 7:1-2).

Salma

Salma, also known as Salmon, is another prominent figure in the genealogies of Judah. He is listed as a son of Caleb, the son of Hur, and is recognized as the father of Bethlehem (1 Chronicles 2:51). This connection to Bethlehem is of particular importance, as Bethlehem is the birthplace of King David and, according to the New Testament, Jesus Christ (Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1).

The descendants of Salma are integral to the lineage of David, as Salma is identified as the father of Boaz, who married Ruth. This union is significant in the biblical narrative, as it leads to the birth of Obed, the grandfather of David (Ruth 4:21-22). The genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew also traces through this line, underscoring the importance of Salma's descendants in the messianic lineage (Matthew 1:5-6).

Biblical References

· Genesis 36:20 : "These are the sons of Seir the Horite, the inhabitants of the land: Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah."
· 1 Chronicles 2:50-52 : "These were the descendants of Caleb. The sons of Hur the firstborn of Ephrathah: Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim, Salma the father of Bethlehem, and Hareph the father of Beth-gader."
· Ruth 4:21-22 : "Salmon was the father of Boaz, Boaz was the father of Obed, Obed was the father of Jesse, and Jesse was the father of David."
· Matthew 1:5-6 : "Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab, Boaz was the father of Obed by Ruth, Obed was the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David the king."

The genealogies of Shobal and Salma highlight the intricate connections within the tribes of Israel and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through history. Their descendants played pivotal roles in the establishment of key locations and the lineage of significant biblical figures, including King David and Jesus Christ.