Author
Obadiah
Prophet
Written
c. 586–585 BC
Chapters
1
Audience
The nation of Judah and the Edomites
God announces coming judgment and humiliation upon proud Edom
Chapter 1 → Chapter 4Read in Bible
The completeness of Edom's destruction is declared, surpassing even a thief's plunder
Chapter 5 → Chapter 9Read in Bible
Edom's sin of standing aloof and complicit during Jerusalem's fall is condemned
Chapter 10 → Chapter 11Read in Bible
Edom is rebuked for rejoicing over Judah's disaster and aiding its enemies
Chapter 12 → Chapter 14Read in Bible
The universal Day of the LORD is proclaimed as justice for all nations
Chapter 15 → Chapter 16Read in Bible
The house of Jacob is promised deliverance and victory over Edom
Chapter 17 → Chapter 18Read in Bible
Israel's future restoration and the establishment of God's kingdom are proclaimed
Chapter 19 → Chapter 21Read in Bible
"The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home on the heights, you who say to yourself, 'Who can bring me down to the ground?'"
Obadiah 1:3"The day of the LORD is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head."
Obadiah 1:15"But on Mount Zion will be deliverance; it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance."
Obadiah 1:17"Deliverers will go up on Mount Zion to govern the mountains of Esau. And the kingdom will be the LORD's."
Obadiah 1:21Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, pronouncing God's judgment against Edom for its pride and its treacherous role in the fall of Jerusalem, standing by while foreigners plundered the city and even participating in the violence against Judah. The book declares that Edom's arrogance and cruelty will be repaid, as 'the Day of the LORD' approaches all nations. It concludes with a promise of restoration and victory for Israel, affirming God's sovereignty and ultimate justice.