Obadiah 1:9

And thy mighty [men], O Teman, shall be dismayed, to the end that every one of the mount of Esau may be cut off by slaughter.

And thy mighty {H1368} men, O Teman {H8487}, shall be dismayed {H2865}, to the end that every one {H376} of the mount {H2022} of Esau {H6215} may be cut off {H3772} by slaughter {H6993}.

Your warriors, Teman, will be so distraught that everyone on Mount 'Esav will be slaughtered.

Then your mighty men, O Teman, will be terrified, so that everyone in the mountains of Esau will be cut down in the slaughter.

And thy mighty men, O Teman, shall be dismayed, to the end that every one may be cut off from the mount of Esau by slaughter.

Obadiah 1:9 is a powerful declaration of divine judgment against the nation of Edom, specifically targeting its military might and the security it once boasted. This verse underscores the certainty of God's retribution for their pride and violent actions against His people.

Context

The Book of Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, a prophetic oracle almost entirely dedicated to pronouncing judgment against Edom. Edom was a neighboring nation descended from Esau, the twin brother of Jacob (Israel), making them a "brother" nation. Despite this familial tie, Edom consistently showed hostility towards Judah, most notably by participating in or rejoicing over Jerusalem's destruction by foreign invaders (as alluded to in Obadiah 1:11-14).

Teman was a prominent city or region within Edom, renowned for its wisdom (cf. Job's friend Eliphaz the Temanite) and military prowess. The "mighty men" of Teman represent the elite warriors and strategists of Edom. Mount Esau is another name for the mountainous territory inhabited by the Edomites. This verse foretells that even Edom's strongest defenders would be utterly terrified and ineffective, leading to the complete destruction of their nation.

Key Themes

  • Divine Judgment and Retribution: The verse highlights God's unwavering commitment to justice. Edom's pride and cruelty would not go unpunished. This serves as a reminder that the Lord is a God of justice who sees all actions, as seen in passages like Romans 12:19.
  • The Fall of the Arrogant: Edom was known for its secure, mountainous strongholds and its pride (Obadiah 1:3). This prophecy declares that their perceived strength and security would collapse, demonstrating that no human power can stand against God's decree.
  • Sovereignty of God: God orchestrates the downfall of nations, proving His ultimate authority over all earthly powers and destinies. The dismay of Edom's mighty men is part of God's plan to "cut off by slaughter" the entire nation.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "dismayed" is ḥātat (חָתַת), which carries a strong sense of terror, brokenness, or being shattered. It's more than just fear; it implies a complete loss of courage, morale, and effectiveness. This signifies that Edom's renowned warriors would be utterly paralyzed by dread, unable to defend their nation.

The phrase "cut off by slaughter" emphasizes the totality and severity of the judgment. It points to a decisive and complete eradication, leaving no remnant, a stark contrast to God's preservation of Israel.

Practical Application

Obadiah 1:9 serves as a timeless reminder of several spiritual truths:

  • God's Justice Prevails: It assures us that God is just and will ultimately bring accountability for all injustice and oppression. No one, whether an individual or a nation, is above His judgment.
  • Humility Before God: The swift fall of proud Edom teaches us the importance of humility. Relying on one's own strength, wisdom, or perceived security instead of God leads to ultimate downfall.
  • Consequences of Cruelty: The severe fate of Edom for their actions against their "brother" nation highlights the seriousness of cruelty, lack of compassion, and rejoicing in others' misfortunes. We are called to love our neighbors, even our enemies (Matthew 5:44).

This verse ultimately points to the certainty of God's prophetic word and His active involvement in the affairs of mankind, ensuring that justice will be served.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ezekiel 25:13

    Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also stretch out mine hand upon Edom, and will cut off man and beast from it; and I will make it desolate from Teman; and they of Dedan shall fall by the sword.

  • Amos 1:12

    But I will send a fire upon Teman, which shall devour the palaces of Bozrah.

  • 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 63:3

    I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people [there was] none with me: for I will tread them in mine anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled upon my garments, and I will stain all my raiment.

  • Genesis 36:11

    And the sons of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, and Gatam, and Kenaz.

  • Isaiah 34:5

    For my sword shall be bathed in heaven: behold, it shall come down upon Idumea, and upon the people of my curse, to judgment.

  • Isaiah 34:8

    For [it is] the day of the LORD'S vengeance, [and] the year of recompences for the controversy of Zion.

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