God promised Abraham: “I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse.” (Genesis 12:3) God will punish or curse or judge those who dishonor or harm or hate Abraham and his descendants. Esau, though a descendant of Abraham, forsook God and hated his brother Jacob. Edomites continuously hated Israel. God warned the children of Jacob (Israel) not to hate Esau’s descendants Edomites. (Deuteronomy 23:7) However, Edomites rose against the Nation of Israel and they invited God’s wrath and punishment.
Pride: “Who will bring me down?” (Obadiah 1:3) First, Edom had natural defenses that it was not easy to defeat that nation. Second, the nation had great alliances with powerful countries. Third, the city of Teman had many wise people. (Jeremiah 49:7; I Kings 4:30)
Stood aloof: When Jacob was plundered, Edomites stood aloof. (Obadiah 1:11) They were like the Priest and Levite who passed by the dying man on the Jericho Road. (Luke 10:25-37)
Gloated: Edomites gloated when the Israelite were facing calamity and disaster. (Obadiah 1:12)
Rejoiced: Edomites rejoiced, celebrated and were glad that Israel was distressed, defeated, and destroyed. (Obadiah 1:12) Bible warns against gloating and rejoicing seeing the disaster of enemies. (Proverbs 24:17-18)
Looted: Edom laid hands on their substance, probably left over by the invading armies. (Obadiah 1:13) Edomites took advantage of the vulnerable moment of the Israelite.
Escapees arrested: God’s Law states that when a slave escapes from the master, he should be given refuge, not handed over back to his master. (Deuteronomy 23:15) The Jewish people who escaped from enemies were handed over to them. (Obadiah 1:14)
Righteous Judge: God is righteous. He judges nations. “As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head.” (Obadiah 1:15)
The End: When Jews rebelled against Rome, Edomites joined them. (66-70 AD) This was too little, too late. The Romans defeated Edomites, and never are mentioned again in history as prophesied by Obadiah and Ezekiel. (Obadiah 1:10; 18; Ezekiel 35:15)
What is my attitude and mindset towards others?