31 - Obadiah
TLDR: The shortest OT book: judgment on Edom for violence against brother Jacob. "The day of the LORD is near." Hope for Zion and the house of Jacob.
Overarching Storyline
Edom's pride and fall (v. 1–9). Why: violence against Jacob (v. 10–14). Day of the LORD (v. 15). Zion restored; Esau consumed (v. 16–21).
Bible Project: Obadiah overview.
Pegs for Memorizing This Book
- Person: Edom (Esau), Jacob (Israel).
- Image: Eagles' nest, brother betrayed.
- Number: 1 (chapter; 21 verses).
- Phrase: "The day of the LORD is near" (v. 15); "As you did, it will be done to you" (v. 15).
Highlights
- Obadiah 15 — The day of the LORD is near; as you did, it will be done to you.
- Obadiah 21 — Deliverers will go up on Mount Zion to govern the mountains of Esau; the kingdom will be the LORD's.
(Link to verse entries and meditations as added.)
Before and After
- Before: Amos; Obadiah focuses only on Edom.
- After: Jonah; Obadiah is one chapter; Jonah is narrative.
Place in the Overarching Biblical Story
Brother against brother. Edom (Esau) versus Jacob; God judges the violent. The kingdom will be the LORD's — a note of hope for the oppressed.
Interesting Facts
- Shortest OT book — 21 verses in one chapter.
- Edom — Descendants of Esau; traditional enmity with Israel; often a symbol of the world's hostility.