Obadiah 1:19

Those from the Negev will possess the mountains of Esau; those from the foothills will possess the land of the Philistines. They will occupy the fields of Ephraim and Samaria, and Benjamin will possess Gilead.

Study Bible

Those from the Negev will possess the mountains of Esau;
The Negev is a desert region in the southern part of Israel, historically inhabited by the tribe of Judah. The "mountains of Esau" refer to the territory of Edom, located southeast of the Dead Sea. This prophecy indicates a reversal of fortunes, where the Israelites, specifically those from the Negev, will take possession of Edom's land. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's justice and the eventual triumph of His people over their enemies. Historically, Edom and Israel had a contentious relationship, with Edom often opposing Israel. This prophecy underscores the ultimate sovereignty of God over the nations.

those from the foothills will possess the land of the Philistines.
The "foothills" or "Shephelah" is a region of low hills between the coastal plain and the central highlands of Israel. The Philistines were a significant adversary of Israel, residing in the coastal cities such as Gaza, Ashkelon, and Ashdod. This part of the prophecy suggests that the Israelites will expand their territory westward into the land of the Philistines. The Philistines are often depicted in the Bible as a symbol of opposition to God's people, and their defeat represents the triumph of God's kingdom. This also connects to the broader biblical narrative of Israel's conquest and settlement in the Promised Land.

They will occupy the fields of Ephraim and Samaria,
Ephraim and Samaria were central regions in the northern kingdom of Israel. This prophecy indicates a reunification and restoration of the land that was once divided and lost due to the Assyrian conquest. The mention of Ephraim and Samaria symbolizes the restoration of the northern tribes and the re-establishment of Israel's full territorial inheritance. This reflects the prophetic hope for the reunification of all Israel under God's rule, as seen in other prophetic books like Ezekiel and Isaiah.

and Benjamin will possess Gilead.
Benjamin was one of the tribes of Israel, located just north of Judah. Gilead, on the other hand, was a region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and rugged terrain. This prophecy suggests an expansion of Benjamin's territory into Gilead, which was historically part of the territory of the tribes of Gad and Manasseh. This reflects the theme of restoration and expansion of Israel's borders, as well as the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the land. The mention of Benjamin, a tribe known for its warriors, also highlights the strength and resilience of God's people in reclaiming their inheritance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Negev
A desert region in southern Israel, often associated with the tribe of Judah. It represents the southernmost part of the Promised Land.

2. Mountains of Esau
Refers to the territory of Edom, the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. This area is located southeast of the Dead Sea.

3. Philistines
An ancient people who lived on the southwestern coast of Canaan. They were often in conflict with the Israelites.

4. Ephraim and Samaria
Ephraim was one of the tribes of Israel, and Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. These areas represent the heartland of the Northern Kingdom.

5. Benjamin and Gilead
Benjamin was one of the tribes of Israel, and Gilead was a region east of the Jordan River. This indicates the expansion of territory for the tribe of Benjamin.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Fulfillment of Prophecy
Obadiah 1:19 demonstrates God's control over history and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Believers can trust that God's plans will come to pass, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Restoration and Hope for God's People
The verse offers hope for restoration and expansion for Israel. In a broader sense, it reminds Christians of the ultimate restoration and inheritance promised through Christ.

The Importance of Spiritual Inheritance
Just as the Israelites were promised physical land, Christians are promised a spiritual inheritance. This calls for living in a way that reflects our identity as heirs with Christ.

Overcoming Adversity through Faith
The possession of enemy territories signifies victory over adversaries. Believers are encouraged to overcome spiritual battles through faith and reliance on God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy in Obadiah 1:19 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in our personal faith journey?

2. In what ways does the expansion of Israel's territory in Obadiah 1:19 symbolize spiritual growth and victory for believers today?

3. How can understanding the historical context of the Negev, Edom, and the Philistines enhance our interpretation of this verse?

4. What parallels can we draw between the territorial restoration in Obadiah 1:19 and the spiritual inheritance promised to Christians in the New Testament?

5. How can we apply the message of hope and restoration in Obadiah 1:19 to current challenges faced by the Church or individual believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
This verse speaks of the prophecy given to Rebekah about her twins, Jacob and Esau, where the older (Esau) will serve the younger (Jacob). Obadiah 1:19 reflects the fulfillment of this prophecy as the descendants of Jacob (Israel) will possess the land of Esau.

Amos 9:12
This passage also speaks of Israel possessing the remnant of Edom and all the nations called by God's name, indicating a future restoration and expansion of Israel's territory.

Isaiah 11:14
This verse describes Israel's future victory over the Philistines and other neighboring nations, similar to the territorial expansion mentioned in Obadiah 1:19.