Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Abadias" is a variant of "Obadiah," which is derived from the Hebrew name "Obadyah," meaning "servant of Yahweh" or "worshiper of Yahweh." This name reflects a deep connection to the worship and service of God, a common theme among the prophets and figures in the Hebrew Bible. Biblical References: The name Abadias is not directly found in the Berean Standard Bible as it is a variant of Obadiah. However, Obadiah is a significant figure in the Bible, primarily known as the author of the Book of Obadiah, one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament. The Book of Obadiah: The Book of Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, consisting of only one chapter with 21 verses. It is a prophetic text that focuses on the judgment of Edom, a nation descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob. The prophecy condemns Edom for its pride and its violence against Israel, particularly during times of distress. Key Themes and Messages: 1. Judgment Against Edom: The central theme of Obadiah is the divine judgment against Edom for its arrogance and betrayal of Israel. The Edomites are accused of standing aloof when Jerusalem was invaded and even participating in the looting. Obadiah 1:10-11 states, "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever. On the day you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were like one of them." 2. The Day of the Lord: Obadiah speaks of the "Day of the Lord," a time when God will enact justice and judgment upon the nations. This theme is prevalent in prophetic literature, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the ultimate accountability of all nations before Him. Obadiah 1:15 declares, "For the Day of the LORD is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head." 3. Restoration of Israel: Despite the judgment pronounced on Edom, the book ends with a promise of restoration and deliverance for Israel. The Israelites will return to their land and possess it fully, as indicated in Obadiah 1:17 : "But on Mount Zion there will be deliverance, and it will be holy, and the house of Jacob will reclaim their possession." Historical Context: The exact date of the Book of Obadiah is debated among scholars, with suggestions ranging from the 9th to the 6th century BCE. The historical context likely involves a period when Edom took advantage of Judah's vulnerability, possibly during the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem in 586 BCE. Theological Significance: The message of Obadiah, and by extension Abadias, underscores the themes of divine justice, the consequences of pride and betrayal, and the hope of redemption for God's people. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant and His ultimate authority over the nations. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ABADIASab-a-di'-as (Greek Abadias): Mentioned in 1 Esdras 8:35 as the son of Jezelus, of the sons of Joab, returned with Ezra from the captivity; and in Ezra 8:9 called "Obadiah the son of Jehiel." Thesaurus Abadias... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ABADIAS. ab-a-di'-as (Greek Abadias): Mentioned in 1 Esdras 8:35 as the son of Jezelus, of the sons ... /a/abadias.htm - 6k Abagarus Abad'don (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |