The name Obil appears once in the Old Testament (1 Chronicles 27:30) as the name of the Ishmaelite official appointed by David to oversee his camels. The name likely derives from a root meaning "camel driver" or "camel keeper," reflecting his occupation.
Though a minor figure, Obil illustrates how David organized his vast royal household according to tribal expertise. The Ishmaelites, descendants of Ishmael (son of Hagar and Abraham), were historically associated with camel herding and desert trade. David's inclusion of an Ishmaelite in his court reflects the broad scope of his administration and the fulfillment of God's promise that Ishmael's descendants would also be blessed.