If you have ever wondered who the first usher in the Bible was, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive article, we will uncover the identity of this mysterious biblical figure and explore their role and significance in scripture.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The first usher specifically mentioned in the Bible was Obed-Edom the Gittite, who was appointed as a doorkeeper or gatekeeper for the ark of the covenant when King David had it brought to Jerusalem.
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Introducing Obed-Edom the Gittite
Obed-Edom’s Brief Biblical Biography
Obed-Edom was a man mentioned briefly but meaningfully in the Old Testament books of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles. His name means “servant of Edom” and he is described as being a Gittite, meaning he was from the Philistine city of Gath.
Based on the genealogical records in 1 Chronicles 26:4-8, Obed-Edom was a Levite from the Kohathite clan, making him a descendant of Levi and brother tribe to Moses and Aaron.
The Ark of the Covenant had captured by the Philistines in battle against the Israelites during the days of the judges. After experiencing divine judgement while in possession of the ark, the Philistines finally returned the ark.
On its way back to Jerusalem however, Uzzah was struck dead by God after touching the ark, leading David to divert the ark to the house of Obed-Edom (see 2 Samuel 6).
The ark remained at Obed-Edom’s home for 3 months. Unlike Uzzah, Obed-Edom was greatly blessed during this period rather than being judged. First Chronicles 26 clarifies that he was both a capable gatekeeper and musician for the tabernacle during the early years of David’s reign.
Obed-Edom’s obedient custody of the ark marked him as loyal worshiper of Yahweh.
His Role as Ark Keeper in 2 Samuel
In 2 Samuel 6, King David first attempts to transport the recovered Ark of the Covenant back to his capital in Jerusalem. The ark had resided for years in obscurity at Abinadab’s house after being captured by the Philistines.
But Uzzah makes the tragic mistake of reaching out to steady the ark when the oxen stumble, and being struck dead by God as a result.
Horrified, David responds by diverting the ark to the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite. Remarkably, Obed-Edom is greatly blessed by God rather than cursed for those 3 months that the ark resides with him.
Seeing this, David is encouraged and once more tries to bring the ark to Jerusalem, this time succeeding amidst great fanfare.
Obed-Edom’s exact relationship to the ark is not described. But scholars believe that as a Levite, he would have known the protocols for handling the ark and acted as an unofficial priest caring for it.
He and his household exemplified the proper reverence that was expected but scandalously lacked when Uzzah erred. Obed-Edom’s minor role ultimately impacted King David’s legacy in a major way.
The Significance of the Ark of the Covenant
The Ark as a Sacred Object
The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest made by the Israelites according to God’s instructions to Moses on Mount Sinai. It was seen as the tangible sign of God’s presence and protection over His chosen people.
The Ark was a wooden chest covered in gold, with two golden cherubim on the lid. Inside the Ark were placed the two stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments – God’s eternal covenant with Israel.
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For the Israelites, the Ark represented the very throne and presence of God among them. Wherever the Ark went, God went with it. Its supreme sacredness is seen in the intricate instructions given for its handling – only the Levites were allowed to carry it, and that with poles placed through rings on the side so no one ever touched the Ark itself.
The Ark went before the people into battles as a sign of God’s presence and deliverance. Yet its holiness was so intense that improper handling brought instant death, as seen in the story of Uzzah and the Ark.
So while representing God’s nearness, the Ark also signified distance and absolute purity from sin.
Its Importance to the Israelites
As a symbol of God’s presence, protection and guidance, the Ark held unique meaning for Israel. According to Jewish tradition, the Ark contained the original stone tablets, a jar of manna, and Aaron’s rod.
To the Israelites wandering the desert, unsure of God and their own future, here was reassurance they were not alone.
The Ark went ahead of them to search out a resting place (Num. 10:33) and was central to the crossing of the Jordan into the Promised Land (Josh. 3:1-17). In battle, its presence spurred faith in God’s help against overwhelming odds (1 Sam. 4:3-11).
When carried properly as God ordained, the Ark brought great blessing, defeating Israel’s enemies.
Yet the Ark was more than just a symbol. As the meeting place of God’s presence and His covenant, it also represented accessibility to Him. Once in Canaan, Joshua gathered the Israelite tribes at Shechem where he read the Law with the Ark in their midst (Josh. 8:30-35).
Regularly the High Priest would sprinkle blood on the mercy seat of the Ark to make atonement for the sins of the people (Lev. 16:14-16).
So in many ways the Ark formed the centerpiece of Israelite national and religious identity. That sacred chest accompanied them from captivity in Egypt to the invention of monarchy. The Ark ratified God’s covenant and promise that He was Israel’s God – they His people.
The Role of Ushers and Gatekeepers
Ushers as Guardians
In ancient times, ushers played an important role as guardians and doorkeepers of tents and temples. They were tasked with protecting sacred spaces and ensuring unauthorized people did not enter. As the Bible notes, “the doorkeepers were assigned to their posts at the room gate” (1 Chronicles 9:26).
They had to be vigilant and discerning to keep out intruders or thieves.
The ushers also assisted with crowd control and seating arrangements during busy assemblies and religious ceremonies. They helped maintain order amidst large gatherings of people. Their presence allowed events to run smoothly.
Later Biblical References to Ushers
The duties of ushers expanded over time to include additional hospitality roles:
- Greeting newcomers and visitors
- Providing information and answering questions
- Assisting people to their seats
- Distributing bulletins
- Collecting offerings
- Maintaining cleanliness and tidiness
In the New Testament, the apostle Paul refers to Phoebe as a “deacon” and “benefactor” of the church in Cenchrae (Romans 16:1-2). Although the specific word “usher” is not used, Phoebe’s role likely involved the hospitality and service functions ushers were known for.
Obed-Edom’s Blessings for Guarding the Ark
Obed-Edom was greatly blessed by God for taking care of the Ark of the Covenant. According to 2 Samuel 6, when David first attempted to move the Ark to Jerusalem, disaster struck and Uzzah was killed for touching the Ark.
David became afraid and left the Ark at the house of Obed-Edom for three months.
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During this time, God showered blessings on Obed-Edom and his household. The Bible says, “The ark of the LORD remained in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite for three months, and the LORD blessed him and his entire household” (2 Samuel 6:11).
What an awesome privilege it must have been for Obed-Edom to safeguard the holy Ark where God’s presence dwelt.
Though the Bible does not give specifics, Obed-Edom and his family were certainly blessed spiritually during this time. They enjoyed intimate access to the very throne of God. Their lives were also enriched materially.
When David heard how much God had blessed Obed-Edom, he went and brought the Ark to Jerusalem with great joy.
Later, when David appointed gatekeepers for the house of God, Obed-Edom was made gatekeeper of the South Gate. His family was also given duties before the Ark in Jerusalem (see 1 Chronicles 26:4-8). In addition, many verses mention treasures of gold and silver in Obed-Edom’s household (see 1 Chronicles 26:20, 28).
Clearly, Obed-Edom’s obedience in guarding the Ark brought great blessing! His name even means “servant of Edom” or “worshiper of God.” Though little-known, Obed-Edom’s faithfulness still stands as an inspirational example today.
When we serve the Lord faithfully, even in small things, He notices and rewards our obedience. We may not always understand the significance of what God asks us to do. But like Obed-Edom, when we trust and obey, God blesses our faithfulness in ways we cannot imagine.
As Matthew Henry’s commentary states, “Wherever the ark went, it was a token of God’s presence and a blessing was entailed upon those who attended it and took care of it.”
The Legacy of Obed-Edom
Obed-Edom was the first usher mentioned in the Bible. Though his story is brief, Obed-Edom left an incredible legacy of faithfulness that continued for generations after him. Here are some key points about the far-reaching impact of this early temple servant:
He Displayed Great Trust in God
When the Ark of the Covenant was brought back from Philistine territory, it was first placed in Obed-Edom’s home. This took immense courage, as the Ark’s power had just killed Uzzah for touching it improperly (2 Samuel 6:6-11).
But for three months, Obed-Edom displayed faith in God’s safety by housing the Ark without incident.
He Received Blessings for His Service
The presence of the Ark brought blessings to Obed-Edom’s household during those three months (2 Samuel 6:11-12). Though we are not told specifics, these were likely blessings of protection, prosperity, and peace in the family. God rewarded Obed-Edom’s faithfulness.
His Descendants Prospered as Temple Workers
Many of Obed-Edom’s descendants served as gatekeepers and musicians in the temple over 200 years later (1 Chronicles 26:4-8). The family was known for its dedication to temple duties. Obed-Edom’s faithfulness set the tone for generations to come.
His Family Helped Return the Ark
Obed-Edom’s sons were among those who helped King David move the Ark to Jerusalem the second time (1 Chronicles 15:24-25). Their father’s positive experience with the Ark likely made them eager to assist David in this task.
Though Obed-Edom’s biblical story is short, it’s clear his courage and service left a tremendous legacy. He and his family were blessed for generations due to his willingness to aid God’s work. Obed-Edom provides an inspirational example of stepping out in faith to serve the Lord.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while brief, the biblical account of Obed-Edom provides important insights into the early roles of ushers and gatekeepers among God’s people. As the first custodian of the sacred ark, Obed-Edom faithfully guarded this holy relic, receiving blessings and setting a precedent for future generations.
His legacy lives on through the ongoing tradition of ushers and doorkeepers contributing their quiet service in houses of worship down to the present day.
Source: https://t-tees.com
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