¶ The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning Edom; We have heard a rumour from the LORD, and an ambassador is sent among the heathen, Arise ye, and let us rise up against her in battle.
The vision {H2377} of Obadiah {H5662}. Thus saith {H559} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069} concerning Edom {H123}; We have heard {H8085} a rumour {H8052} from the LORD {H3068}, and an ambassador {H6735} is sent {H7971} among the heathen {H1471}, Arise {H6965} ye, and let us rise up {H6965} against her in battle {H4421}.
This is the vision of 'Ovadyah. Here is what Adonai ELOHIM says about Edom. As a messenger was being sent among the nations saying, "Come on, let's attack her," we heard a message from ADONAI:
This is the vision of Obadiah: This is what the Lord GOD says about Edom— We have heard a message from the LORD; an envoy has been sent among the nations to say, “Rise up, and let us go to battle against her!”—
The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord Jehovah concerning Edom: We have heard tidings from Jehovah, and an ambassador is sent among the nations, saying, Arise ye, and let us rise up against her in battle.
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Amos 1:11
Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Edom, and for four, I will not turn away [the punishment] thereof; because he did pursue his brother with the sword, and did cast off all pity, and his anger did tear perpetually, and he kept his wrath for ever: -
Amos 1:12
But I will send a fire upon Teman, which shall devour the palaces of Bozrah. -
Joel 3:19
Egypt shall be a desolation, and Edom shall be a desolate wilderness, for the violence [against] the children of Judah, because they have shed innocent blood in their land. -
Isaiah 63:1
¶ Who [is] this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this [that is] glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save. -
Isaiah 63:6
And I will tread down the people in mine anger, and make them drunk in my fury, and I will bring down their strength to the earth. -
Malachi 1:3
And I hated Esau, and laid his mountains and his heritage waste for the dragons of the wilderness. -
Malachi 1:4
Whereas Edom saith, We are impoverished, but we will return and build the desolate places; thus saith the LORD of hosts, They shall build, but I will throw down; and they shall call them, The border of wickedness, and, The people against whom the LORD hath indignation for ever.
Obadiah 1:1 (KJV)
¶ The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning Edom; We have heard a rumour from the LORD, and an ambassador is sent among the heathen, Arise ye, and let us rise up against her in battle.
Commentary
This verse serves as the introduction to the shortest book in the Old Testament, a prophecy entirely focused on the judgment of Edom.
Context
Obadiah is identified as the prophet receiving a "vision" or divine revelation. The message is specifically directed "concerning Edom." Edom was the nation descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob (Israel). Historically, Edom maintained a hostile relationship with Israel, culminating in their participation or approval of the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 BC, which is the likely historical backdrop for this prophecy (see verses 10-14).
Meaning and Themes
The verse declares this prophecy originates directly from "the Lord GOD," emphasizing divine authority. The core message is that judgment is coming upon Edom. The phrase "We have heard a rumour from the LORD" suggests a report or message originating in the divine council, indicating a plan is being put into action. An "ambassador" or messenger is being sent among the "heathen" (other nations) to stir them up for war against Edom ("Arise ye, and let us rise up against her in battle"). This highlights the theme of God's sovereignty over all nations; He can use other nations as instruments of His judgment against those who oppose Him and His people.
Linguistic Insight
The Hebrew word for "vision" (חָזוֹן, chazon) signifies a prophetic revelation received by a prophet. "Lord GOD" (אֲדֹנָי יְהֹוִה, Adonai Yahweh) is a significant divine title emphasizing God's supreme lordship and covenant faithfulness. The word translated "rumour" (שְׁמוּעָה, shemu'ah) can mean a report, message, or tidings. "Ambassador" (צִיר, tzir) is a messenger, often an envoy sent between rulers or nations.
Cross-references
Other prophecies concerning Edom's judgment can be found in Jeremiah 49:7-22 and Ezekiel 25:12-14.
Reflection
This opening verse reminds us that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations. He hears, plans, and acts, often using unexpected means (like other nations) to bring about His purposes and execute justice against those who stand against Him or mistreat others, particularly His people.