What is the meaning of Obadiah 1:10? Because of the violence against your brother Jacob “Because of the violence” spotlights a long, deliberate pattern of hostility. Centuries earlier, Esau (ancestor of Edom) nursed a grudge against Jacob (Genesis 27:41), and their descendants carried that bitterness into national life. When Judah was invaded, Edom stood by “gloating” and even took part in the pillage (Psalm 137:7; Obadiah 1:11). Amos 1:11–12 echoes the same charge, noting Edom’s unrelenting anger. The Lord, who sees every act (Proverbs 15:3), identifies violence against His covenant people as violence against Himself (Zechariah 2:8). your brother Jacob The phrase reminds Edom of its family bond with Israel. God expected brotherly solidarity, not betrayal (Deuteronomy 23:7). Edom ignored that obligation, illustrating how unchecked resentment can override blood ties (Proverbs 18:19). This violation of brotherhood magnified their guilt; they sinned not merely against a neighbor but against kin (Malachi 1:2–3). you will be covered with shame Shame in Scripture often pictures public exposure of hidden sin (Jeremiah 13:26). Edom’s pride in its mountain strongholds (Obadiah 1:3–4) would give way to humiliation as God reversed their fortunes (Jeremiah 49:16–17). Instead of glory, Edom would wear disgrace like a cloak (Psalm 109:29). and cut off forever This announces a final, decisive judgment. Unlike temporary discipline, “cut off forever” signals extinction as a nation (Isaiah 34:5–15). History records Edom’s gradual disappearance after Rome’s destruction of their Idumean remnants, fulfilling Ezekiel 35:9. God’s promise to Abraham—“I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse” (Genesis 12:3)—stands vindicated. summary Obadiah 1:10 teaches that violence against God’s covenant people, especially when it comes from a “brother,” invites irreversible judgment. Edom’s spiteful actions bred national shame and ultimate extinction, confirming the Lord’s faithfulness to defend Israel and to repay unrepentant evil. |
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