Obed-edom

Obed-edom is a significant biblical figure known for his association with the Ark of the Covenant during the reign of King David. He is first mentioned in the context of the Ark's journey to Jerusalem. After the tragic death of Uzzah, who was struck down by God for touching the Ark, David decided to temporarily house the Ark in the home of Obed-edom the Gittite. This event is recorded in 2 Samuel 6:10-11 : "So David was unwilling to move the ark of the LORD to the city of David; instead, he took it aside to the house of Obed-edom the Gittite. Thus the ark of the LORD remained in the house of Obed-edom the Gittite for three months, and the LORD blessed him and all his household."

Obed-edom's household experienced divine blessing during the Ark's stay, which encouraged David to bring the Ark to Jerusalem with great celebration. This blessing is a testament to the presence of God and His favor upon those who honor Him.

Obed-edom is also noted for his role as a gatekeeper and musician in the service of the tabernacle. In 1 Chronicles 15:18, 21, and 24 , he is listed among the Levites appointed by David to minister before the Ark: "And with them their brothers of the second rank: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel the gatekeepers... Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah were to lead with harps tuned to the Sheminith... Obed-edom and Jehiah were also to be gatekeepers for the ark."

Obed-edom's dedication to his duties and his willingness to serve in various capacities highlight his faithfulness and commitment to the worship of God. His account is a reminder of the blessings that come from serving the Lord with a sincere heart.

Jehiah

Jehiah is a lesser-known biblical figure who is mentioned in connection with the service of the Ark of the Covenant. He is identified as one of the gatekeepers alongside Obed-edom. In 1 Chronicles 15:24 , it is stated: "Obed-edom and Jehiah were also to be gatekeepers for the ark."

While the Bible provides limited information about Jehiah, his inclusion among the gatekeepers signifies his role in the sacred duties associated with the Ark. Gatekeepers were responsible for maintaining the security and sanctity of the tabernacle, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean and authorized could approach the holy site.

Jehiah's service as a gatekeeper, though not extensively detailed, reflects the importance of every role in the worship and service of God. Each position, whether prominent or humble, contributes to the overall functioning and reverence of the worship community. His mention alongside Obed-edom suggests a shared commitment to the responsibilities entrusted to them by King David and the Levitical order.

Together, Obed-edom and Jehiah exemplify the diverse roles within the worship of God and the blessings that accompany faithful service. Their accounts, though brief, are woven into the larger narrative of Israel's history and the centrality of the Ark of the Covenant in the life of the nation.