Topical Bible: Jehu: Son of Obed

◄ Jehu: Son of Obed ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Jehu, the son of Obed, is a lesser-known figure in the biblical narrative, primarily mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah. His mention is found in the context of the chronicling of the descendants of Judah, which serves to establish the lineage and heritage of the tribe, significant for its role in the history of Israel and the lineage of King David.

Genealogical Context

Jehu is listed in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles, a book that provides a detailed account of the ancestry of the tribes of Israel. In 1 Chronicles 2:38, we read: "Azel had six sons, and these were their names: Azrikam, Bocheru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah, and Hanan. All these were the sons of Azel." Jehu is mentioned as the son of Obed, who is part of this extended genealogy. The genealogies in Chronicles are crucial for understanding the continuity of God's covenant with Israel, particularly through the line of Judah, from which the Messiah would eventually come.

Historical and Theological Significance

While Jehu himself does not play a prominent role in biblical events, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage in the biblical narrative. The chronicler's emphasis on genealogy serves to affirm the faithfulness of God in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises through specific family lines. The tribe of Judah, to which Jehu belongs, is particularly significant as it is the tribe from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ, the Messiah, would descend.

The genealogies also reflect the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and providence in history. Each name, including that of Jehu, represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive plan. The chronicler's meticulous recording of these names highlights the belief in a divinely orchestrated history, where every individual, regardless of their prominence, plays a role in the unfolding of God's purposes.

Cultural and Social Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were not merely records of ancestry but were also vital for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and social status. For the Israelites, these records were a testament to their identity as God's chosen people and a reminder of their covenantal relationship with Him. Jehu's mention, therefore, contributes to the collective memory and identity of the tribe of Judah.

Conclusion

Though Jehu, son of Obed, does not have a detailed narrative or notable exploits recorded in Scripture, his presence in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles serves as a testament to the enduring significance of family lineage in the biblical tradition. His inclusion in the sacred text reflects the broader themes of covenant, identity, and divine providence that permeate the biblical narrative.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 2:38
And Obed begat Jehu, and Jehu begat Azariah,
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Antiquities of the Jews
... Government Of The Israelites Booz Married Ruth, From Whom Came Obed The Grandfather
Of ... The High Priest Slew Her And Made Jehoash, The Son Of Ahaziah ... Jehu Dies. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/josephus/the antiquities of the jews/

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... of the early kings, and retained them only till about the reign of Jehu, as we ... of
Mount Nebo, but he had not entered it, and after his death, Joshua, son of Nun ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm