Topical Bible: Oabdius

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Introduction:
Obadiah is one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament, and the book bearing his name is the shortest in the Hebrew Bible, consisting of only one chapter with 21 verses. The name "Obadiah" means "servant of Yahweh" or "worshiper of Yahweh," reflecting the prophet's role and dedication to God.

Historical Context:
The Book of Obadiah is primarily concerned with the judgment of Edom, a nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. The historical context of Obadiah's prophecy is debated among scholars, with some suggesting it was written after the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC, while others propose an earlier date. The prophecy addresses Edom's pride and their participation in or indifference to the calamity that befell Jerusalem.

Themes and Message:
1. Judgment Against Edom:
Obadiah's central theme is the divine judgment against Edom for their arrogance and mistreatment of Israel. The Edomites are condemned for their violence and betrayal against their brother nation, Israel. Obadiah 1:3-4 states, "The pride of your heart has deceived you, O dwellers in the clefts of the rocks, whose habitation is high, who say in your heart, 'Who can bring me down to the ground?' Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, even from there I will bring you down, declares the LORD."

2. The Day of the LORD:
Obadiah speaks of the "Day of the LORD," a time of divine retribution and justice. This day is not only a time of judgment for Edom but also for all nations. 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 recompense will return upon your own head."

3. Restoration of Israel:
Despite the focus on Edom's judgment, Obadiah also contains a message of hope and restoration for Israel. The prophet foresees a time when the exiles of Israel will return and possess their land. Obadiah 1:17 promises, "But on Mount Zion there will be deliverance, and it will be holy, and the house of Jacob will reclaim their possession."

4. Sovereignty of God:
The book underscores the sovereignty of God over all nations. It emphasizes that God is not only the God of Israel but the ruler of all the earth, executing justice and fulfilling His promises.

Theological Significance:
Obadiah's prophecy highlights the themes of divine justice, the consequences of pride, and the faithfulness of God to His covenant people. It serves as a reminder of the moral and spiritual accountability of nations and individuals before God. The book also foreshadows the ultimate victory of God's kingdom, as seen in Obadiah 1:21 : "The deliverers will ascend Mount Zion to judge the mountains of Esau, and the kingdom will belong to the LORD."

Legacy and Influence:
Obadiah's message has been influential in both Jewish and Christian traditions, serving as a warning against pride and a call to trust in God's justice and sovereignty. The book's brevity and powerful imagery have made it a poignant reminder of the enduring principles of divine retribution and redemption.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

OABDIUS

o-ab'-di-us (Codex Alexandrinus Oabdios; Codex Vaticanus eios, Fritzsche, Ioabdios, omitted in the King James Version): One of the sons of Ela who put away their "strange wives" (1 Esdras 9:27) = "Abdi" of Ezra 10:26.

Thesaurus

Oabdius
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia OABDIUS. o-ab'-di-us (Codex Alexandrinus
Oabdios; Codex Vaticanus eios, Fritzsche, Ioabdios, omitted ...
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