Obadiah 1:19

Those from the Negev will possess the mountains of Esau; those from the foothills will possess the land of the Philistines. They will occupy the fields of Ephraim and Samaria, and Benjamin will possess Gilead.

Study Bible

Those from the Negev
The Negev is a desert region in the southern part of Israel. The Hebrew word "Negev" means "dry" or "south," reflecting both its arid climate and its geographical location. Historically, the Negev was a place of nomadic tribes and sparse settlements. In this prophecy, the people from this region are promised expansion and victory, symbolizing God's ability to bring life and prosperity from barren places. This reflects the transformative power of God, who can turn desolation into abundance.

will possess the mountains of Esau
The "mountains of Esau" refer to the territory of Edom, located southeast of the Dead Sea. Esau, the brother of Jacob, is the ancestor of the Edomites. The Hebrew root for "possess" is "yarash," which means to inherit or take possession. This indicates a divine transfer of land, suggesting that God's people will reclaim what was once lost or taken. The mountains symbolize strength and stability, and this promise underscores God's justice and sovereignty over nations.

and those from the foothills
The "foothills" or "Shephelah" is a region of low hills between the coastal plain and the central highlands of Israel. This area was often a battleground due to its strategic location. The mention of the foothills highlights the comprehensive nature of God's promise, extending from the desert to the hills, indicating a full restoration and expansion of territory for His people.

will possess the land of the Philistines
The Philistines were a significant adversary of Israel, often depicted as a symbol of opposition to God's people. The "land of the Philistines" refers to the coastal region of Canaan. The promise of possession here signifies victory over long-standing enemies and the establishment of peace and security. It reflects the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all opposition.

They will occupy the fields of Ephraim and Samaria
Ephraim and Samaria were central regions in the northern kingdom of Israel. Ephraim, one of the tribes of Israel, often represents the whole northern kingdom. Samaria was its capital. The Hebrew word for "occupy" is "yarash," similar to "possess," indicating a rightful inheritance. This promise suggests a reunification and restoration of the divided kingdom, symbolizing spiritual renewal and unity among God's people.

and Benjamin will possess Gilead
Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, was known for its warriors and strategic location. Gilead, east of the Jordan River, was a fertile and significant region. The promise that Benjamin will possess Gilead indicates a restoration of territory and influence. It symbolizes God's faithfulness to His covenant people, ensuring their inheritance and blessing. This reflects the hope of restoration and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Negev
A desert region in southern Israel, often associated with the tribe of Judah. It represents the southernmost part of the Promised Land.

2. Mountains of Esau
Refers to the territory of Edom, the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. This area is located southeast of the Dead Sea.

3. Philistines
An ancient people who lived on the southwestern coast of Canaan. They were often in conflict with the Israelites.

4. Ephraim and Samaria
Ephraim was one of the tribes of Israel, and Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. These areas represent the heartland of the Northern Kingdom.

5. Benjamin and Gilead
Benjamin was one of the tribes of Israel, and Gilead was a region east of the Jordan River. This indicates the expansion of territory for the tribe of Benjamin.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Fulfillment of Prophecy
Obadiah 1:19 demonstrates God's control over history and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Believers can trust that God's plans will come to pass, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Restoration and Hope for God's People
The verse offers hope for restoration and expansion for Israel. In a broader sense, it reminds Christians of the ultimate restoration and inheritance promised through Christ.

The Importance of Spiritual Inheritance
Just as the Israelites were promised physical land, Christians are promised a spiritual inheritance. This calls for living in a way that reflects our identity as heirs with Christ.

Overcoming Adversity through Faith
The possession of enemy territories signifies victory over adversaries. Believers are encouraged to overcome spiritual battles through faith and reliance on God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy in Obadiah 1:19 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in our personal faith journey?

2. In what ways does the expansion of Israel's territory in Obadiah 1:19 symbolize spiritual growth and victory for believers today?

3. How can understanding the historical context of the Negev, Edom, and the Philistines enhance our interpretation of this verse?

4. What parallels can we draw between the territorial restoration in Obadiah 1:19 and the spiritual inheritance promised to Christians in the New Testament?

5. How can we apply the message of hope and restoration in Obadiah 1:19 to current challenges faced by the Church or individual believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
This verse speaks of the prophecy given to Rebekah about her twins, Jacob and Esau, where the older (Esau) will serve the younger (Jacob). Obadiah 1:19 reflects the fulfillment of this prophecy as the descendants of Jacob (Israel) will possess the land of Esau.

Amos 9:12
This passage also speaks of Israel possessing the remnant of Edom and all the nations called by God's name, indicating a future restoration and expansion of Israel's territory.

Isaiah 11:14
This verse describes Israel's future victory over the Philistines and other neighboring nations, similar to the territorial expansion mentioned in Obadiah 1:19.