Book of Obadiah facts for kids
The Book of Obadiah is a very short book found in the Bible. It's part of both the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament for Christians. This book is special because it's only one chapter long!
It's believed that a person named Obadiah wrote this book. His name means "servant of the Lord." Obadiah probably wrote his message a long, long time ago, sometime between 850 and 550 B.C.
Contents
Obadiah's Message to Edom
The main message in the Book of Obadiah is for a country called Edom. The people of Edom were descendants of Esau. Esau was the twin brother of Jacob, who was also known as Israel. Jacob is the ancestor of the Jewish people.
Edom's Actions Against Israel
When foreign armies attacked Israel, the people of Edom did not help them. Instead, they took many things that belonged to the Israelites. They even stood by and watched as Israel suffered.
God's Judgment on Edom
Obadiah said that because of their actions, God would destroy the Edomites. The Edomites felt very safe. Their city was protected by tall mountains. They also had other nations who were their friends and allies in wars. They were proud of their smart leaders. But Obadiah warned that none of these things could save them from defeat.
Edom's Future
Obadiah also said that God would give Israel back some of their lands, including the land that belonged to the Edomites. Today, Edom no longer exists as a country. Part of what was once Edom is now in the country of Jordan. The ancient ruins of their capital city, Petra, are now a famous tourist attraction that many people visit.
