Who Was Ohad in the Bible?
Man Living at the Time of Egypt and Wilderness
Ohad is a figure mentioned briefly in the Bible, specifically in Genesis 46:10 and Exodus 6:15. He is identified as one of the sons of Simeon, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel). This places Ohad within the significant context of the formation of the twelve tribes of Israel, which are foundational to the nation of Israel’s history.
Genesis 46:10 (ESV)
“The sons of Simeon: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman.”
Exodus 6:15 (ESV)
“The sons of Simeon: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman. These are the clans of Simeon.”
Ohad’s Genealogical Significance
The Bible provides genealogical records to trace the lineage and heritage of the tribes of Israel. Ohad’s inclusion in these genealogies underscores the importance of his place within the tribe of Simeon. The genealogies serve to highlight the continuity and preservation of God’s chosen people throughout history.
1 Chronicles 4:24 (ESV)
“The sons of Simeon: Nemuel, Jamin, Jarib, Zerah, Shaul.”
The Tribe of Simeon
Simeon, Ohad’s father, was known for his involvement in the incident with his brother Joseph, as well as his participation in the violent response to the defilement of their sister Dinah (Genesis 34). Despite these actions, the tribe of Simeon remained a significant part of Israel’s history, contributing to the nation’s development and fulfillment of God’s promises.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Each Individual in God’s Plan
Ohad’s brief mention in the Bible illustrates the value God places on every individual within His redemptive plan. Modern Christians can take comfort in knowing that, regardless of their visibility or perceived significance, they hold a valuable place in God’s overarching narrative. Each person’s faithfulness and obedience contribute to the fulfillment of God’s purposes.
1 Corinthians 12:12 (ESV)
“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.”
Faithfulness in Obscurity
Ohad’s limited mention in the Bible teaches the lesson of faithfulness in obscurity. Not all roles in God’s kingdom are prominent or widely recognized, yet each role is crucial. Christians are called to be faithful in whatever position they find themselves, trusting that their contributions are significant to God.
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV)
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Detailed Care and Knowledge
The inclusion of individuals like Ohad in genealogical records reflects God’s detailed care and knowledge of His people. It demonstrates that God is attentive to each person’s life and history, recognizing their contributions and ensuring their place within His divine plan.
Psalm 139:1-3 (ESV)
“O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways.”
Continuity of God’s Promises
Ohad’s presence in the genealogies underscores the continuity of God’s promises through generations. This continuity assures believers of God’s steadfastness and faithfulness in keeping His word, spanning from the patriarchs to the present day.
Hebrews 10:23 (ESV)
“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.”
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ Lineage and Fulfillment of God’s Plan
The genealogies in the Bible, including the mention of Ohad, ultimately lead to the lineage of Jesus Christ. Each name in these records, whether prominently featured or briefly mentioned, plays a part in the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan through Christ. Ohad’s inclusion highlights the intricate and intentional design of God’s salvation history.
Matthew 1:1-17 (ESV)
This passage traces Jesus’ genealogy, demonstrating the fulfillment of God’s promises through generations, culminating in the birth of Jesus.
Faithfulness Leading to Redemption
Ohad’s place within the tribe of Simeon, despite the tribe’s complicated history, reflects the broader theme of God’s redemptive work through flawed and ordinary people. Jesus Christ, coming from this lineage, exemplifies the ultimate redemption and fulfillment of God’s promises, providing salvation to all who believe.
Galatians 4:4-5 (ESV)
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.”
Conclusion
Ohad, though a lesser-known figure in the Bible, serves as a reminder of the significance of every individual in God’s plan. His inclusion in the genealogies of Simeon underscores the value of each person in the unfolding story of God’s redemptive history. For modern Christians, Ohad’s story teaches the importance of faithfulness, the value of each role in God’s kingdom, and the assurance of God’s detailed care and promises. Through this narrative, believers are encouraged to trust in God’s faithfulness, be diligent in their duties, and find their place in the grand design of God’s salvation plan, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.