Historical Summary
With only one chapter, Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, but its message is weighty. It pronounces judgment against Edom, a nation descended from Esau, for its violence and pride against Judah, the descendants of Jacob. When Jerusalem fell—likely in 586 B.C.—Edom stood by, rejoiced over Judah’s downfall, and even took part in looting and capturing fugitives. Obadiah’s prophecy shows that God sees such betrayal, especially when it comes from “a brother.”
But the prophecy reaches beyond Edom. Obadiah foretells the coming Day of the LORD when all nations that oppose God will be judged, and Israel will be restored. Mount Zion will once again be a place of deliverance, and “the kingdom shall be the LORD’s” (Obadiah 1:21). Historically, Obadiah warns against pride while it promises that God will defend His people and fulfill His Kingdom plan.