The answer is: Jesse

1 Sam 16:11

When you dig into the life of King David, one of the most iconic figures in the Bible, you inevitably come across his roots. David's father, Jesse, isn’t merely a backdrop in David’s story; he plays a crucial role in David’s rise to kingship. Jesse was a humble farmer from Bethlehem, and his lineage traces back to Ruth and Boaz, a significant fact that highlights the intertwining tales of redemption and leadership in the biblical narrative.

In 1 Samuel 16:11, when the prophet Samuel is sent to anoint the future king, it’s Jesse’s youngest son who emerges as the surprising choice—David himself, the shepherd boy. This choice underscores a key biblical principle: often, those who seem least likely to be chosen are the ones God has in mind for greatness. Theologians often refer to this as "the reversal of expectations," a theme that resonates throughout the Scriptures.

Interestingly, King David’s lineage is also believed to fulfill key biblical prophecies, such as those concerning the Messiah, making the connection between David and Jesus particularly meaningful. Just as David was anointed as king among the unexpected, Jesus comes from the same line and exemplifies the ultimate twist in God’s plan for redemption.

And look at this—“the city of David,” which is basically acknowledging his connection to Bethlehem, serves as both a geographical reference and a spiritual anchor, underlining how the simplest beginnings can lead to powerful destinies. So, Jesse’s identity might seem small, but it leads to monumental events in the overarching story of hope and fulfillment throughout the Bible!