Obadiah 1:5

"If thieves came to you, if robbers by night--oh, how you will be ruined--would they not steal only what they wanted? If grape gatherers came to you, would they not leave some gleanings?

Study Bible

If thieves came to you
The imagery of "thieves" in this verse draws from the Hebrew word "גַּנָּב" (ganav), which refers to those who steal stealthily. In the ancient Near Eastern context, theft was a common threat, and the mention of thieves evokes a sense of sudden and unexpected loss. The verse begins with a hypothetical scenario that sets the stage for understanding the extent of Edom's impending judgment. Unlike ordinary thieves who take only what they need, the judgment on Edom will be total and devastating.

if robbers by night
The phrase "robbers by night" emphasizes the clandestine and destructive nature of the impending judgment. The Hebrew word "שׁוֹדֵד" (shoded) refers to violent plunderers. Nighttime robberies were particularly feared in ancient times due to the cover of darkness, which made them more difficult to prevent. This imagery underscores the severity and inevitability of Edom's downfall, suggesting that it will be more comprehensive than a typical robbery.

Oh, how you will be ruined!
This exclamation highlights the certainty and completeness of Edom's destruction. The Hebrew root "שָׁחַת" (shachat) conveys the idea of being spoiled or corrupted beyond repair. The phrase serves as a prophetic lament, expressing the irreversible nature of the judgment. It is a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and betrayal, as Edom's ruin is portrayed as both inevitable and deserved.

would they not steal only what they wanted?
Here, the rhetorical question contrasts the actions of typical thieves with the totality of Edom's impending judgment. Thieves usually take only what they desire or can carry, leaving behind some possessions. This implies that even in theft, there is a limit. However, the judgment on Edom will be so thorough that nothing will be spared. This serves as a warning of the comprehensive nature of divine justice.

If grape pickers came to you
The imagery of "grape pickers" draws from the agricultural practices of the time. Grape harvesters, or "בֹּצֵר" (botser), would typically leave some grapes behind, either intentionally for the poor to glean or unintentionally due to the nature of the harvest. This practice is rooted in the Mosaic Law, which commanded leaving gleanings for the needy (Leviticus 19:9-10). The mention of grape pickers suggests a natural limit to what is taken, contrasting with the total desolation Edom will face.

would they not leave some gleanings?
The concept of "gleanings" refers to the remnants left after a harvest, known in Hebrew as "עֹלֵלוֹת" (olelot). This practice was a form of social justice, ensuring provision for the poor and marginalized. The rhetorical question implies that even grape pickers, who take much, leave something behind. In contrast, Edom's judgment will be so severe that nothing will remain. This serves as a sobering reminder of the thoroughness of God's judgment against those who oppose His will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Obadiah
The prophet who authored the book, delivering a message of judgment against Edom.

2. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, often in conflict with Israel.

3. Thieves and Robbers
Used metaphorically to describe the complete and utter devastation that will come upon Edom.

4. Grape Pickers
Symbolic of those who harvest, yet leave some behind, contrasting with the total destruction prophesied for Edom.

5. Israel
The nation often in conflict with Edom, representing God's chosen people.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice
God's judgment is thorough and complete. Unlike human thieves who leave something behind, God's judgment on Edom will be total.

Consequences of Pride
Edom's pride and arrogance led to their downfall. We must guard against pride and seek humility before God.

God's Sovereignty
The prophecy against Edom demonstrates God's control over nations and history. Trust in His sovereign plan.

Repentance and Restoration
While Edom faced destruction, individuals and nations today have the opportunity to repent and seek God's mercy.

Community Responsibility
Just as Edom was judged for its actions against Israel, we are called to act justly and love our neighbors.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of thieves and grape pickers in Obadiah 1:5 illustrate the completeness of God's judgment?

2. In what ways can pride lead to downfall, as seen in the example of Edom? How can we guard against this in our own lives?

3. How does the prophecy against Edom demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations? What comfort can we draw from this in today's world?

4. What lessons can we learn from Edom's failure to act justly towards Israel, and how can we apply these lessons in our relationships with others?

5. How do the themes of judgment and mercy in Obadiah relate to the broader message of the Gospel? How can we apply this understanding to our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 49:9
This verse parallels Obadiah 1:5, emphasizing the completeness of Edom's destruction.

Joel 3:19
Speaks of Edom's desolation due to violence against Judah, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution.

Malachi 1:2-4
Highlights God's judgment on Edom, contrasting His love for Jacob (Israel) with His judgment on Esau (Edom).