Obadiah 1:20

KJV

And the captivity of this host of the children of Israel [shall possess] that of the Canaanites, [even] unto Zarephath; and the captivity of Jerusalem, which [is] in Sepharad, shall possess the cities of the south.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the captivity {H1546} of this host {H2426} of the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} shall possess that of the Canaanites {H3669}, even unto Zarephath {H6886}; and the captivity {H1546} of Jerusalem {H3389}, which is in Sepharad {H5614}, shall possess {H3423} the cities {H5892} of the south {H5045}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Those from this army of the people of Isra'el exiled among the Kena'anim as far away as Tzarfat, and the exiles from Yerushalayim in S'farad, will repossess the cities in the Negev.

Berean Standard Bible

And the exiles of this host of the Israelites will possess the land of the Canaanites as far as Zarephath; and the exiles from Jerusalem who are in Sepharad will possess the cities of the Negev.

American Standard Version

And the captives of this host of the children of Israel, that are among the Canaanites, shall possess even unto Zarephath; and the captives of Jerusalem, that are in Sepharad, shall possess the cities of the South.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Obadiah 1:20 is a profound prophetic declaration of Israel's future restoration and territorial re-possession following their exile. It vividly portrays a reversal of fortunes, where the scattered captives from both the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah (Jerusalem) will return to claim and expand their ancestral lands, even into regions previously held by the Canaanites and other surrounding peoples, extending from the northern Phoenician coast down to the southern Negeb. This verse underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, assuring His people of their ultimate re-establishment and security.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, primarily focused on the impending judgment of Edom for their treachery against Judah during Jerusalem's downfall. Following a detailed oracle of Edom's humiliation and destruction (Obadiah 1:1-18), the book abruptly shifts focus in Obadiah 1:19-21 to the restoration and expansion of Israel. Verse 20 specifically details the geographical extent of this re-possession, acting as a pivotal transition from divine wrath against an enemy to divine grace and restoration for God's covenant people. It sets the stage for the ultimate establishment of God's kingdom on Mount Zion, as prophesied in the concluding verse.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Obadiah likely dates to a period after the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC, given the explicit reference to Edom's participation in the looting of the city (Obadiah 1:11-14). The "captivity" mentioned in verse 20 refers to the various waves of exiles from both the northern kingdom of Israel (deported by Assyria in 722 BC) and the southern kingdom of Judah (deported by Babylon). The mention of "Canaanites" reflects the ancient inhabitants of the promised land, whose territories Israel was meant to possess. "Zarephath" was a Phoenician city north of Israel, indicating expansion beyond traditional borders. "Sepharad" is a more enigmatic location, often identified as Sardis in Lydia (Asia Minor) or a region in the Persian Empire, signifying the widespread nature of the Jewish diaspora. The "cities of the south" refer to the Negeb, the arid southern region of Judah, which bordered Edom, implying a complete re-establishment of territorial integrity and security. This promise of repossession would have offered immense hope to a dispossessed and scattered people.
* **Key Themes:** Obadiah 1:20 contributes significantly to several major themes within the book and broader prophetic literature. The most prominent is **Restoration and Reoccupation**, emphasizing God's commitment to bringing His exiled people back to their land and enabling them to reclaim and expand their inheritance. This theme is echoed in other prophetic books, such as when God promises to [restore the fortunes of His people](/amos/9-14 "Amos 9:14 - Restoration of Israel's Fortunes") and rebuild their ruined cities. Another key theme is **Divine Faithfulness**, demonstrating that despite Israel's disobedience leading to exile, God remains true to His covenant promises, ensuring a future and a hope for His people. This aligns with the broader prophetic message of [God gathering His people from all nations](/ezekiel/36-24 "Ezekiel 36:24 - God Gathers Israel from the Nations") and bringing them back to their land. Finally, the verse highlights **Territorial Expansion**, indicating that the future inheritance would extend beyond the historical boundaries, symbolizing a complete and secure re-establishment under God's sovereign hand.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **captivity (Hebrew, _gâlûwth'_):** From the root meaning "to go into exile," this term refers to those who have been carried away from their homeland. Here, it concretely denotes the exiles themselves, both from the northern kingdom of Israel ("this host of the children of Israel") and the southern kingdom of Judah ("the captivity of Jerusalem"). It emphasizes their dispossessed and scattered state, making the subsequent promise of possession all the more striking.
* **host (Hebrew, _chêyl'_):** While often meaning "army" or "rampart," in this context, "host" refers to the collective body or multitude of the children of Israel who are in captivity. It emphasizes the entirety of the exiled community, signifying that the promise of restoration is for the whole people, not just a select few.
* **possess (Hebrew, _yârash'_):** This verb signifies taking possession, inheriting, or dispossessing previous occupants. It carries the weight of divine entitlement, highlighting that the reoccupation of these lands is not merely by human strength but by God's sovereign decree and covenant promise. It implies a reversal of fortunes, from being dispossessed to becoming the rightful possessors.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the captivity of this host of the children of Israel":** This clause refers to the exiles from the northern kingdom of Israel, often called the "ten lost tribes," who had been deported by the Assyrians. The phrase "this host" emphasizes the collective body of these scattered people.
* **"[shall possess] that of the Canaanites, even unto Zarephath":** This part of the promise indicates a significant territorial expansion for the returning Israelites. They are to possess lands traditionally associated with the Canaanites, extending northward to Zarephath, a Phoenician city located on the Mediterranean coast (modern-day Lebanon). This signifies a reclaiming of ancient inheritance and a secure northern border.
* **"and the captivity of Jerusalem, which [is] in Sepharad":** This clause focuses on the exiles from the southern kingdom, specifically those from Jerusalem, who had been deported by the Babylonians. "Sepharad" is a distant and debated location, possibly in Asia Minor or Mesopotamia, symbolizing the widespread nature of the Jewish diaspora.
* **"shall possess the cities of the south":** This final phrase refers to the repossession of the Negeb region, the arid southern district of Judah. This area bordered Edom, suggesting that the returning exiles would reclaim and secure their southern territories, potentially including lands previously encroached upon by Edom. This completes the picture of a comprehensive and secure territorial restoration.

#### Literary Devices
Obadiah 1:20 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message of restoration. **Parallelism** is evident in the two main clauses, where the "captivity of Israel" and the "captivity of Jerusalem" are each promised to "possess" specific geographical areas. This structural repetition emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the restoration, encompassing both parts of the divided kingdom. **Symbolism** is present in the geographical locations mentioned: Zarephath represents the northern extent of the expanded territory, while Sepharad symbolizes the far-flung nature of the diaspora from which God would gather His people. The "cities of the south" symbolize the complete reclamation of the land, including areas potentially lost to enemies. Furthermore, there is a strong sense of **Inversion** or **Reversal of Fortunes**, as the people who were dispossessed and scattered are now promised to become the possessors, highlighting God's power to turn despair into hope and defeat into victory.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Obadiah 1:20 stands as a testament to God's unwavering covenant faithfulness. Despite Israel's disobedience leading to exile, God's promises concerning their land and their future as a nation remain intact. This verse articulates a future where the scattered remnants of Israel and Judah would be regathered and re-established, not merely returning to their former borders but expanding their influence and territory. This divine act of restoration underscores God's sovereignty over history and His commitment to fulfilling His word, even when human circumstances seem to contradict it. It speaks to a God who remembers His covenant and acts decisively to redeem His people and restore their inheritance.

* [Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - The Abrahamic Covenant Land Promise")
* [Isaiah 11:11-12](/isaiah/11-11-12 "Isaiah 11:11-12 - Gathering of the Remnant")
* [Jeremiah 30:3](/jeremiah/30-3 "Jeremiah 30:3 - Return from Captivity")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Obadiah 1:20 offers a powerful message of hope and divine faithfulness that resonates deeply with believers today. In a world often marked by displacement, loss, and uncertainty, this verse reminds us that God's plans for His people are ultimately unbreakable. Just as He promised to restore the exiles of Israel and Judah to their land and grant them expanded possession, so too does He work to restore and bless His people in every generation. This passage encourages us to cultivate perseverance in the face of adversity, trusting that even when circumstances seem dire or when we feel dispossessed, God is sovereign and will bring His purposes to fruition. It reminds us that our ultimate security and inheritance are found in Him, and He is faithful to fulfill every promise, often exceeding our expectations and leading us into a future of ultimate restoration and blessing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Obadiah 1:20 challenge my perspective on God's faithfulness when I face personal or communal periods of "captivity" or loss?**
* **In what ways might I be called to "possess" or reclaim areas of my life or community that feel lost or dispossessed, trusting in God's empowering presence?**
* **How does the promise of territorial expansion in this verse encourage me to think about the expansion of God's kingdom in the world today?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Zarephath and Sepharad in Obadiah 1:20?**

Answer: Zarephath (Hebrew, _Tsârᵉphath'_) was a Phoenician city located north of Israel, on the Mediterranean coast (modern-day Lebanon). Its inclusion signifies a promised northern territorial expansion for the returning Israelites, extending beyond their traditional borders into former Canaanite lands. Sepharad (Hebrew, _Çᵉphârâd'_) is a more enigmatic location, mentioned only here in the Old Testament. While its precise identification is debated (some suggest Sardis in Lydia, others a region in Mesopotamia or Persia), it clearly denotes a distant place of exile for a segment of the Jerusalemite population. Its significance lies in highlighting the widespread nature of the Jewish diaspora and God's ability to gather His people from even the most remote corners of the earth, demonstrating the comprehensive scope of His restoration plan.

**How does Obadiah 1:20 relate to the preceding prophecies of judgment against Edom?**

Answer: Obadiah 1:20 serves as a crucial counterpoint and climax to the book's primary theme of judgment against Edom. While the earlier verses (Obadiah 1:1-18) detail Edom's impending destruction for their treachery against Judah during Jerusalem's fall, Obadiah 1:20 shifts the focus to God's enduring faithfulness to Israel. It demonstrates that divine justice is not merely punitive but also redemptive. Amidst the downfall of Israel's enemies, God's covenant people are promised restoration, re-possession of their land, and even territorial expansion. This contrast underscores God's righteous character, showing His wrath against sin and oppression, but also His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises and His people's ultimate blessing and security. The judgment on Edom paves the way for Israel's restoration, culminating in the establishment of God's kingdom on [Mount Zion](/obadiah/1-21 "Obadiah 1:21 - Saviors on Mount Zion").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Obadiah 1:20 speaks of a literal, physical restoration of Israel to their land, its ultimate and most profound fulfillment is found in Jesus Christ and the spiritual reality of His kingdom. The "captivity" from which Israel is delivered foreshadows humanity's bondage to sin and death, from which Christ delivers us. The "possession" of the land points to the spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ, as we are made heirs with Him (see [Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - Our Inheritance in Christ")). Through His atoning work, Christ has dispossessed the powers of darkness, granting us freedom and a new spiritual territory in His kingdom (see [Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Redemption and Forgiveness")). The gathering of the "host of the children of Israel" and the "captivity of Jerusalem" from distant lands like Sepharad finds its spiritual parallel in the church, which is comprised of believers from "every nation, tribe, people and language" (see [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - A Multitude from Every Nation")), gathered into one body in Christ. The territorial expansion "unto Zarephath" and "the cities of the south" symbolizes the global reach of the Gospel and the expansion of God's spiritual kingdom to the ends of the earth through the Great Commission (see [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). Thus, Obadiah 1:20 ultimately points to the comprehensive, spiritual restoration and inheritance that is ours in Christ, where we are brought out of spiritual exile into the glorious freedom and possession of His eternal kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 4:26

But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, [a city] of Sidon, unto a woman [that was] a widow.

1 Kings 17:9

Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which [belongeth] to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.

1 Kings 17:10

So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman [was] there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.

Jeremiah 33:13

In the cities of the mountains, in the cities of the vale, and in the cities of the south, and in the land of Benjamin, and in the places about Jerusalem, and in the cities of Judah, shall the flocks pass again under the hands of him that telleth [them], saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 32:44

Men shall buy fields for money, and subscribe evidences, and seal [them], and take witnesses in the land of Benjamin, and in the places about Jerusalem, and in the cities of Judah, and in the cities of the mountains, and in the cities of the valley, and in the cities of the south: for I will cause their captivity to return, saith the LORD.

Zechariah 10:6

And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the house of Joseph, and I will bring them again to place them; for I have mercy upon them: and they shall be as though I had not cast them off: for I [am] the LORD their God, and will hear them.

Zechariah 10:10

I will bring them again also out of the land of Egypt, and gather them out of Assyria; and I will bring them into the land of Gilead and Lebanon; and [place] shall not be found for them.