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,
This phrase introduces the metaphor of thieves, which is used to describe the impending judgment on Edom. In the ancient Near East, theft was a common occurrence, and thieves typically took only what they could carry. This imagery highlights the severity of Edom's coming destruction, suggesting it will be more thorough than a typical robbery. The Bible often uses the imagery of thieves to describe sudden and unexpected judgment (e.g., Matthew 24:43, 1 Thessalonians 5:2).

if robbers by night—
Robbers operating at night implies a sense of stealth and surprise. Nighttime robberies were particularly feared because they were harder to prevent and more disorienting. This phrase emphasizes the unexpected and complete nature of the judgment that will befall Edom. The use of "night" can also symbolize spiritual darkness and moral decline, themes prevalent in prophetic literature.

oh, how you will be ruined—
This exclamation underscores the totality of Edom's destruction. The ruin is not just physical but also moral and spiritual, reflecting the consequences of their pride and hostility towards Israel. The prophetic tone here is one of lament, similar to the lamentations over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1). It serves as a warning to all nations about the dangers of pride and enmity against God's people.

would they not steal only what they wanted?
This rhetorical question suggests that even thieves, who are typically indiscriminate, leave behind some possessions. In contrast, Edom's destruction will be so complete that nothing will be left. This highlights the thoroughness of divine judgment compared to human actions. It also reflects the biblical principle that God's judgment is both just and comprehensive (Jeremiah 49:9-10).

If grape gatherers came to you,
The imagery shifts to grape gatherers, who were known to leave some grapes behind for the poor and for gleaning, as prescribed in Levitical law (Leviticus 19:9-10). This practice ensured that the needy could find sustenance, reflecting God's provision and mercy. The mention of grape gatherers contrasts human mercy with the severity of divine judgment.

would they not leave some gleanings?
This question reinforces the idea that human actions, even when destructive, are not as complete as divine judgment. Gleanings were the remnants left for the poor, symbolizing mercy and provision. The absence of gleanings in Edom's case signifies the totality of their judgment, as nothing will be spared. This serves as a stark warning of the consequences of pride and opposition to God's will, as seen in Edom's history of conflict with Israel (Genesis 25:30, Numbers 20:14-21).

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).