Overview
Shobai is mentioned only as the head of a family of gatekeepers (porters) who returned with Zerubbabel from exile in Babylon. His descendants numbered 139 individuals and were assigned to guard the gates of the rebuilt temple, fulfilling a vital role in Jerusalem's restored worship.
Key Scriptures
"The gatekeepers: the children of Shallum, the children of Ater, the children of Talmon, the children of Akkub, the children of Hatita, and the children of Shobai, in all one hundred and thirty-nine" (Ezra 2:42, NASB).
"The gatekeepers: the sons of Shallum, the sons of Ater, the sons of Talmon, the sons of Akkub, the sons of Hatita, the sons of Shobai, one hundred thirty-nine in all" (Nehemiah 7:45, ESV).
Application
Shobai's family reminds us that every role in God's kingdom—including seemingly humble positions—matters greatly when we serve with faithfulness and return to prioritize worship.