Obadiah(11)
Obadiah in the Bible — Levite gatekeeper (NEH 12:25). Obadiah belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “servant of the Lord”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Obadiah was a male Levite who served as a gatekeeper, a role of responsibility and service within the temple community. His position as a Levite gatekeeper is specifically noted in Nehemiah 12:25, highlighting his role in the religious life of Israel. There are no additional notes recorded about his personal life or other activities.
Names & Titles
The name Obadiah means 'servant [worshiper] of YHWH,' reflecting a life devoted to the Lord. This proper name, as given in Nehemiah 12:25, underscores his identity as one who serves God faithfully, consistent with his Levitical duties.
Family
Scripture explicitly records Obadiah as a descendant of Levi, situating him within the tribe set apart for priestly and temple service. Beyond this, no further family relationships are documented for him.
Significance
Obadiah's significance lies in his role as a Levite gatekeeper, entrusted with the care and oversight of the temple gates, which was vital for maintaining the sanctity and order of worship. His service in this capacity reflects the faithfulness required of those who minister in God's house. While not elaborated on extensively, his mention in Nehemiah 12:25 connects him to the post-exilic restoration of worship and temple duties.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- עֹבַדְיָה
- Transliteration
- ovedəyah
- Meaning
- servant [worshiper] of y-h-v-h
- Greek
- [none]
- Reference
- NEH 12:25
- Strong's
- H5662
Family & Relationships (1)
descendant
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Obadiah in the Bible?
Obadiah was a male Levite who served as a gatekeeper, a role of responsibility and service within the temple community. His position as a Levite gatekeeper is specifically noted in Nehemiah 12:25, highlighting his role in the religious life of Israel. There are no additional notes recorded about his personal life or other activities.
What does the name Obadiah mean?
The name Obadiah means “servant of the Lord” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.