Question Answer Series[103]: What was the Sin of Edom?

Introduction

The book of Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, yet it delivers a powerful message. It is a prophetic declaration of God’s judgment against Edom, a nation guilty of specific sins, particularly its treatment of Israel, its “brother” nation. Edom serves as a warning to all who walk in pride, self-reliance, and mistreat others in their time of need.

Imagine a neighbor watching as your house burns down—cheering while you lose everything, or worse, looting your possessions. This is a glimpse of what Edom did to Israel.

Historical Background and Context of Obadiah

1. Authorship and Date:
   • The prophet Obadiah is virtually unknown outside of this book. His name means “servant (or worshiper) of Yahweh.”
   • The book was likely written around 586 B.C., after the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem.
2. The Relationship Between Israel and Edom:
   • The Edomites descended from Esau (Genesis 36), the twin brother of Jacob (Israel).
   • Despite their shared ancestry, tension and hostility marked their relationship (Genesis 25:23).
   • Edom historically opposed Israel—refusing them passage during the Exodus (Numbers 20:14-21) and later allying with enemies during Israel’s crises.
3. Setting:
   • When Babylon conquered Judah and destroyed Jerusalem, Edom took advantage of Judah’s vulnerability, aiding the enemy, plundering the land, and oppressing survivors.
   • Obadiah proclaims God’s judgment on Edom for these actions.

The Sin of Edom (Obadiah 1:1-14)

1. Pride and Self-Reliance (Obadiah 1:3-4):
   • “The pride and arrogance of your heart have deceived you… Though you build [your nest] on the heights like the eagle, Though you set your nest among the stars, I will bring you down,” declares the Lord.
   • Edom’s geographical location—a fortress-like region in the mountains—made them feel secure and invincible.
   • Sin: They trusted in their own strength and wisdom, ignoring God’s authority.
2. Practical Application:
   • Pride deceives us. When we rely on our achievements, wealth, or abilities instead of God, we risk destruction (Proverbs 16:18).
3. Mistreatment of Their Brother (Obadiah 1:10):
   • “Because of the violence you did against your brother Jacob, shame shall cover you [completely], and you shall be cut off forever.”
   • Instead of helping Israel, Edom joined in their suffering, betraying their familial bond.
4. Practical Application:
   • Do we stand by when others suffer, especially those close to us? God calls us to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).
5. Rejoicing in Their Brother’s Pain (Obadiah 1:12):
   • “Do not gloat over your brother’s day, the day when his misfortune came.”
   • Edom celebrated Judah’s downfall, taking pleasure in their suffering.
6. Practical Application:
   • Schadenfreude—rejoicing over someone’s misfortune—reveals a hardened heart. Instead, God calls us to empathy and compassion (Romans 12:15).
7. Exploiting the Helpless (Obadiah 1:13-14):
   • Edom looted Judah’s cities and cut off fleeing survivors:
     “You should not have entered the gate of My people… Nor should you have stood at the crossroads to cut down their fugitives.”
   • They acted with cruelty when Judah was most vulnerable.
8. Practical Application:
   • How do we treat those who are helpless, suffering, or disadvantaged? God judges those who exploit or neglect others (Matthew 25:40, 45).

Practical Applications for Us Today

1. Guard Against Pride:
   • Pride blinds us to truth and God’s sovereignty. Humility and dependence on God are essential (James 4:6).
2. Show Compassion, Not Indifference:
   • Just as Edom failed to help, we can sometimes ignore others’ pain. God calls us to actively love our neighbors (Luke 10:27-37).
3. Avoid Rejoicing Over Others’ Troubles:
   • Whether in personal or professional life, do not celebrate someone’s downfall. Instead, pray for restoration and reconciliation.
4. Help the Helpless:
   • Step in to support those in need. This reflects God’s character and draws others to Him (Isaiah 1:17).

Conclusion

The sins of Edom—pride, indifference, and cruelty—resulted in their downfall. Obadiah reminds us that God sees injustice and holds nations and individuals accountable.

Let us examine our hearts:

• Are we prideful and self-reliant?
• Do we rejoice when others stumble?
• Do we neglect those in need?

God calls us to humility, compassion, and active love. As we live this way, we reflect Christ and honor Him in our relationships.

Closing Thought: “Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you” (James 4:10).