The answer is: Jesse

1 Sam 16:11

David, the giant-slaying king of Israel, had a rather humble beginning, and his father's name was Jesse. Jesse was a farmer from Bethlehem, and he had eight sons, showing that he was quite busy! When the prophet Samuel was sent to anoint God's chosen king, Jesse didn’t initially think to call David in from the fields—his youngest son often forgotten amid the elder brothers, who looked more like kings!

Here's something to chew on: the name Jesse means “gift” in Hebrew. Isn’t it interesting how this overlooked shepherd boy became a divine blessing for his kingdom? Plus, Jesse is often mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, illustrating how the roots of Christ can be traced back to this humble father.

You might also find it fascinating that Samuel famously sought a king based on outward appearances, but God encouraged him that “the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). This emphasizes a major theme throughout the Bible: that God values the inner character far more than external status. In fact, this principle resonates through various accounts, like when God chooses unlikely figures—Moses, Gideon, or even Mary—to fulfill His plans.

Understanding this can ignite your appreciation for how various Bible characters contribute to the larger narrative of subtle power and the sweetness of humility over spectacle. Jesse might’ve only been a farmer, but he fathered a legacy that would span generations!