Jesse was a resident of Bethlehem and a member of the tribe of Judah who lived around the 12th century BC. As the son of Obed and the father of King David, he holds a significant place in biblical history. He is primarily remembered for his role in the selection of his youngest son, David, to be the future king of Israel after the prophet Samuel visited his family. Because of his lineage, he is also recognized as an ancestor of Jesus in Christian tradition.