Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Jesse is a significant figure in the Bible, primarily known as the father of King David, one of the most prominent kings of Israel. His lineage is crucial in the biblical narrative, as it establishes the genealogical line leading to Jesus Christ, the Messiah. Jesse's account is primarily found in the books of 1 Samuel and 1 Chronicles, with additional references in the prophetic and New Testament writings. Genealogy and Family: Jesse was the son of Obed and the grandson of Boaz and Ruth, a Moabite woman who converted to the faith of Israel (Ruth 4:17-22). This lineage is significant as it highlights God's inclusive plan for salvation, incorporating Gentiles into His covenant people. Jesse lived in Bethlehem, a town in the territory of Judah, which later became known as the City of David. Jesse had eight sons, with David being the youngest (1 Samuel 16:10-11). His other sons included Eliab, Abinadab, and Shammah, among others. Jesse also had two daughters, Zeruiah and Abigail, who were the mothers of notable biblical figures Joab, Abishai, Asahel, and Amasa (1 Chronicles 2:16-17). Role in David's Anointing: Jesse's most significant biblical role is in the anointing of David as king. When God rejected Saul as king over Israel, He sent the prophet Samuel to Jesse's house to anoint one of his sons as the next king (1 Samuel 16:1). Jesse presented his sons to Samuel, starting with the eldest, Eliab, but God chose David, the youngest, who was tending sheep at the time. The Lord instructed Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). David was anointed in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him from that day forward (1 Samuel 16:13). Jesse's Legacy: Jesse's legacy is primarily carried through his son David, who became a central figure in Israel's history. David's reign established Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel, and his lineage was prophesied to bring forth the Messiah. The prophet Isaiah refers to the "stump of Jesse," indicating that from Jesse's line, a new branch would emerge, symbolizing the coming of Christ (Isaiah 11:1). In the New Testament, Jesse is mentioned in the genealogies of Jesus Christ, affirming the fulfillment of the messianic prophecies. Matthew 1:5-6 and Luke 3:32 both trace Jesus' lineage through David, the son of Jesse, underscoring the divine plan of redemption through this family line. Symbolism and Prophetic Significance: Jesse's name and lineage carry symbolic and prophetic significance throughout Scripture. The "root of Jesse" is a messianic title used to describe Jesus Christ, emphasizing His rightful claim to the throne of David and His role as the Savior of both Jews and Gentiles. Romans 15:12 quotes Isaiah, saying, "The Root of Jesse will appear, One who will arise to rule over the Gentiles; in Him the Gentiles will put their hope" . Conclusion: Jesse's role in the biblical narrative, though not extensively detailed, is pivotal due to his connection to David and the messianic line. His account exemplifies God's sovereign choice and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through seemingly ordinary individuals and families. Library The Story of David The Shepherd-King Early Days Holy Scripture in the New Testament, Even in Its Very First Verse ... Hymn for the Epiphany Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion ... The Call of David How Bright Appears the Morning Star All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name The Story of David, the Shepherd Boy Thesaurus Jesse's (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Jesse's (4 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 20:1 Now there happened to be there a base fellow, whose name was Sheba ... /j/jesse's.htm - 7k Nahash (9 Occurrences) Jesse (45 Occurrences) Jest (1 Occurrence) David (1052 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean that God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7)? | GotQuestions.orgWho was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org How old was David when he was anointed, fought Goliath, became king, died? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Jesse's (4 Occurrences)2 Samuel 20:1 1 Kings 12:16 2 Chronicles 10:16 2 Chronicles 11:18 Subtopics Related Terms |