אוֹבִיל (o.vil)
o.vil
Obil
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Obil refers to a single official recorded in the Old Testament, appearing only once in 1 Chronicles 27:30. He is identified as the overseer of King David’s camels, a role that highlights the practical administration required to maintain the royal household and military logistics during the United Monarchy.
Etymologically, the name likely derives from a root meaning "camel driver" or "one who drives camels." This suggests his title was descriptive of his profession before he assumed this specific managerial position. In the ancient Near East, camels were vital for transport and trade, making their care a significant economic responsibility.
While Obil himself is not a major biblical figure, his inclusion in the census of David’s officials underscores the detailed record-keeping of the kingdom’s resources. The text lists him alongside other stewards of land, vineyards, and cattle, illustrating the organized structure that supported David’s reign. His name serves as a reminder of the many individuals who managed the day-to-day operations of Israel’s monarchy.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Obil appears in a single verse, listed as the overseer of King David’s camels. This brief mention highlights how God values the practical work that sustains community life. In ancient Israel, managing livestock was not just about animals; it was essential for trade, travel, and the stability of the kingdom.
His role reminds us that faithful service often happens behind the scenes. While prophets and kings receive public attention, stewards like Obil ensured the daily operations ran smoothly. This perspective encourages readers to see their own work—whether in business, home, or ministry—as meaningful contributions to God’s broader purposes.
The Bible does not ignore the details of administration. By recording Obil’s name, Scripture affirms that every role, no matter how ordinary it seems, has a place in God’s plan. We are invited to take pride in doing our specific duties with integrity and care.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Obil1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אוֹבִ֖יל1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 27:30
Over the camels was Obil the Ishmaelite. Over the donkeys was Jehdeiah the Meronothite. Over the flocks was Jaziz the Hagrite.
This verse identifies Obil as the Ishmaelite overseer of David's camels, placing him within a structured list of royal administrators.