Guide
What Is the Book of Obadiah?
6th–5th Century BCE
Restricted
This short book (it has only one chapter), from after the fall of Jerusalem, prophesies the destruction of Edom for its betrayal of Judah when Jerusalem was destroyed. Edom, another name for Jacob’s brother Esau (reliving the antagonism between Jacob and Esau) and also a country bordering Israel, is the central character and the emblem of the enemy destroyer. Edom is the paradigm for the nations that God will destroy; in contrast, Israel will prosper.
Related Primary Sources
Primary Source
Edom Will Be Destroyed
Obadiah 1 (selections)
The prophecy of Obadiah.
We have received tidings from the Lord,
And an envoy has been sent out among the nations:
“Up! Let us rise up against her for battle.”
Thus said my Lord God concerning…