Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Reference: Obal is mentioned in the genealogical records of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Genesis. He is listed as one of the sons of Joktan, a descendant of Shem, who was one of Noah's sons. The reference to Obal can be found in Genesis 10:28: "Obal, Abimael, Sheba," . Genealogical Context: Obal is part of the Table of Nations, a passage in Genesis 10 that outlines the descendants of Noah's sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—after the flood. This chapter is significant as it traces the origins of various nations and peoples, providing a framework for understanding the spread of humanity across the earth. Obal, as a descendant of Shem, is part of the Semitic lineage, which is traditionally associated with the peoples of the Near East. Historical and Cultural Significance: While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Obal himself, his inclusion in the genealogical record suggests that he was the progenitor of a group or tribe. The descendants of Joktan, including Obal, are believed to have settled in the Arabian Peninsula. This region is historically significant as a crossroads of ancient civilizations and trade routes. Linguistic Note: The name "Obal" is sometimes rendered as "Ebal" in different translations and manuscripts. This variation in spelling is not uncommon in ancient texts, where transliteration from Hebrew to other languages can result in different phonetic interpretations. Theological Implications: The mention of Obal in the genealogical records underscores the biblical theme of God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises through the generations. The Table of Nations serves as a testament to the diversity and unity of humanity, all descending from a common ancestry. It reflects the biblical worldview that all nations and peoples are part of God's creation and plan. Related Biblical Themes: 1. Genealogy and Lineage: The Bible places significant emphasis on genealogies, which serve to connect individuals to the broader narrative of God's interaction with humanity. Obal's inclusion highlights the importance of family lines in the biblical tradition. 2. The Spread of Nations: The descendants of Noah's sons are seen as the founders of various nations. This theme is central to understanding the biblical perspective on the origins and distribution of different ethnic groups. 3. Covenant and Promise: The genealogies in Genesis are often linked to the covenants God made with humanity, particularly with Noah and later with Abraham. They serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises across generations. Conclusion: While Obal is a relatively obscure figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in the genealogical records of Genesis contributes to the broader understanding of the origins and spread of ancient peoples. His lineage, as part of the descendants of Shem, connects him to the Semitic peoples and the unfolding account of God's interaction with humanity. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary ObalSmith's Bible Dictionary Obal(stripped bare), son of Joktan, and, like the rest of family, apparently the founder of an Arab tribe. (Genesis 10:28) In (1 Chronicles 1:22) the name is written EBAL. Easton's Bible Dictionary Stripped, the eight son of Joktan (Genesis 10:28); called also Ebal (1 Chronicles 1:22). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia EBAL; OBALe'-bal (`ebhal, "bare") or (`obhal): OBAL o'-bal. Strong's Hebrew 5745. Obal -- a son of Joktan, also his desc.... 5744, 5745. Obal. 5746 . a son of Joktan, also his desc. Transliteration: Obal Phonetic Spelling: (o-bawl') Short Definition: Obal. ... /hebrew/5745.htm - 5k 5858c. Ebal -- a mountain North of Shechem 5858b. Ebal -- Ebal 5858a. Ebal -- an Edomite name Library Chapter x [Endnotes] An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Thesaurus Obal (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. EBAL; OBAL. e'-bal (`ebhal, "bare") or (`obhal): (1) A people and region of Joktanite, Arabia. ...OBAL. o'-bal. See EBAL, 1. ... /o/obal.htm - 7k Ebal (8 Occurrences) Obadi'ah (16 Occurrences) Obdia Abimael (2 Occurrences) Abim'a-el (2 Occurrences) Sheba (36 Occurrences) Genealogy (29 Occurrences) Resources Who are Semites? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Obal (1 Occurrence)Genesis 10:28 Subtopics Related Terms |
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