About This Book
Obadiah, the Bible's shortest book, pronounces God's judgment against Edom for pride and violence against brother nation Judah. Edom descended from Esau, Jacob's twin brother, creating a fraternal relationship between the nations. Edom's territory includes the rocky fortress city of Petra, whose natural defenses made residents feel invincible. Edom's pride in their secure dwelling places high in mountain cliffs will prove their downfall.
God declares He will bring them down despite their lofty position, even if they set their nest among the stars like an eagle. When conquerors come, unlike thieves who take only what they want or grape gatherers who leave gleanings, Edom will be thoroughly plundered, their hidden treasures searched out. Former allies will deceive and overpower them. Edom's wise men will be destroyed, warriors dismayed, and everyone cut off by slaughter.
The core accusation concerns Edom's behavior when Jerusalem fell to Babylon. Rather than helping their brother nation, Edom stood aloof, gloating over Judah's misfortune. Worse, Edom actively participated in Jerusalem's destruction—looting the city, blocking escape routes for refugees, and handing survivors over to enemies. This violence against brother Jacob seals Edom's fate—shame will cover them, and they will be destroyed forever.
The Day of the Lord approaches when God will judge all nations according to their deeds. As Edom treated others, so they will be treated—their violence will return upon their own heads. While nations that opposed God drink His wrath on His holy mountain, Mount Zion will be a place of deliverance and holiness. Jacob's descendants will possess their inheritance, and the house of Esau will be stubble consumed by fire.
The kingdom will ultimately belong to the Lord, demonstrating His justice prevails and evil cannot escape accountability.