Obadiah 1:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Obadiah 1:12
12 But thou shouldest not have looked on the day of thy brother in the day that he became a stranger; neither shouldest thou have rejoiced over the children of Judah in the day of their destruction; neither shouldest thou have spoken proudly in the day of distress.
Chapter Context
Obadiah 1 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, mercy, covenant. Written during possibly after Jerusalem's fall (c. 586 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Edom's betrayal of Judah during Jerusalem's fall heightened ancient tribal hostilities.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Obadiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Obadiah 1:12
12 But thou shouldest not have looked on the day of thy brother in the day that he became a stranger; neither shouldest thou have rejoiced over the children of Judah in the day of their destruction; neither shouldest thou have spoken proudly in the day of distress.
Analysis
God condemns Edom's attitudes during Jerusalem's fall: "But thou shouldest not have looked on the day of thy brother in the day that he became a stranger; neither shouldest thou have rejoiced over the children of Judah in the day of their destruction; neither shouldest thou have spoken proudly in the day of distress." The repetition "thou shouldest not" emphasizes moral obligation violated. "Looked on"—gloating observation. "Rejoiced"—taking pleasure in others' suffering. "Spoken proudly"—mocking distress. Proverbs 24:17-18 warns: "Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth... lest the LORD see it, and it displease him." Taking pleasure in others' calamity, especially covenant relatives', constitutes serious sin. Christ commands loving enemies (Matthew 5:43-48), weeping with those who weep (Romans 12:15).
Historical Context
Edom's response to Jerusalem's destruction demonstrated not just failure to help but active hostility and celebration. This pattern repeats in church history when professing Christians celebrate others' suffering rather than showing compassion. The Pharisee thanking God he's not like the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14) exemplifies similar pride. God resists such arrogance.
Reflection
- Do you secretly (or openly) rejoice when others you dislike face difficulties?
- How does Christ's command to love enemies challenge natural human responses to others' suffering?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Samuel 2:3, Job 31:29, Psalms 22:17, 31:18, 37:13, Proverbs 17:5