Interesting Facts

• Obal is listed among the sons of Joktan.
• His name appears in genealogical records that trace the descendants of Shem.

Genealogy

• Father: Joktan.
• He is identified as one of the twelve sons of Joktan, and his brothers include Almodad, Sheleph/Shelaf, Hazarmaveth/Chazarmoveth, Jerah/Yerach, Hadoram/Hadurom, Uzal/Ozel, Diklah, Abimael, Sheba, Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab.

Historical Context

As a scion of Joktan, Obal’s existence would be situated in the post-diluvian world, subsequent to the great flood and the pivotal event of the division of tongues at the Tower of Babel in the land of Shinar. Being a descendant of Shem, Obal would have been part of the eastward migrations undertaken by this lineage as humanity dispersed across the earth. The texts specify that the territory allotted to Joktan and his progeny extended “from Mesha, as thou goest unto Sephar a mount of the east”, indicating their settlement in regions to the east of Shinar. Furthermore, the Book of Jasher interprets the name Joktan to signify a period wherein the lifespan of humankind began to diminish. Consequently, Obal likely entered a world undergoing significant demographic shifts, the formation of distinct linguistic groups following the confusion of tongues, and the initial phases of rebuilding and societal organization after the scattering from Babel. The emergence of prominent figures such as Nimrod and the early development of kingdoms also characterize this historical epoch.

Narrative

The narrative concerning Obal within the available ancient texts is confined to his inclusion in genealogical lists. His presence is noted solely as one of the sons begotten by Joktan, thereby establishing his place within the broader lineage descending from Shem after the great flood and the events surrounding the Tower of Babel. The sources do not ascribe any specific actions, pronouncements, or personal history to Obal. His existence is documented through his familial connection to Joktan and his position amongst his brethren. As one of the twelve sons listed, he forms part of a significant familial unit that established itself in the eastern regions following the dispersion from Shinar. While the historical context portrays a transformative era marked by extensive migrations, the establishment of new settlements, and the diversification of human culture and language, Obal’s individual role or experiences during this time are not recounted in these sources. Thus, his significance lies within the genealogical record as a descendant of Shem, contributing to the repopulation and diversification of the earth in the world that followed the deluge.