Metaphysical meaning of Obil (mbd)
Obil, o'-bil (Heb.)--chief of the camels; keeper of camels.
Obil the Ishmaelite was "over the camels" in David's reign (I Chron. 27:30). Meta. The camel, in its native country, is a beast of burden.
As pertaining to the individual, hard work, the bearing of burdens, are known only by the physical and seemingly mortal phase of his being. An Ishmaelite is a thought that is the fruit of the thoughts of the natural man at work in the flesh, Obil the Ishmaelite, meaning keeper of camels, is a thought activity belonging to the outer consciousness of man. Having joined itself to the ruling love (David) faculty of the individual, it comes into dominion over such of his forces and tendencies as are symbolized by the camel--the bearing of burdens also great steadfastness and endurance--which are traits peculiar to camels and at times seem to develop into obstinacy. (See CAMEL.)
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Preceding Entry: Obed-edom
Following Entry: Oboth
