Author: Not much is known about this Obadiah (there are about thirteen different Obadiah's in the Old Testament). His name means, “Worshiper of Yahweh”.

Date: It is believed that the book was written after the revolt of Edom during the reign of Jehoram ( II Kings 8:20 -22 ), because of the message of doom for Edom based on its treatment of Israel . The conflict between these nations was foretold ( Genesis 25:22-34 - Esau and Jacob) and began when Edom came out to make war against Israel when they began to take possession of the Promised Land ( Numbers 20:14 -21 ). Edom continued to plague Israel until David put them in subjection (which lasted until the revolt against Jehoram).

Theme: Obadiah is the book of the “Doom of Edom ” . This fall will be the result of their pride and cruelty to Israel . Obadiah predicts the fall of Sier, their chief city (the counter part to Zion , additionally, Obadiah proclaims that salvation can only be found in Zion – Vs. 17 ).

Additional Messages:

•  Pride is deceitful and goes before a fall (pride brings vanity, independence from God).

•  Prejudice and cruelty of one people to another will be avenged by God.

•  Doing nothing about injustice bears its own guilt.

•  As a people sows, so shall they reap!

•  Even in Divine judgment, God provides a means of escape to those who turn to Him!

Edom 's Destruction: Historically the destruction of Edom began with the invasion of Nebuchadnezzar. After this for centuries Edom was invaded by Arabs known as Nabataeans, who drove them south of Judah . Before the Romans became the power in the world, the Maccabeans subjected the remainder of the Edomites and converted them to Judaism. Finally, under the Romans during the first century, they were completely absorbed by the Arabs.

Good Reading !