Obadiah 1:13
Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)
كَانَ عَلَيْكَ أنْ لَا تَدْخُلَ بَوَّابَةَ شَعْبِي فِي يُومِ مُصِيبَتِهِ، وَألَّا تَنْظُرَ بِشَمَاتَةٍ إلَيْهِ فِي يُومِ مُصِيبَتِهِ، وَألَّا تَأْخُذَ ثَرْوَتَهُ فِي يُومِ مُصِيبَتِهِ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse is a rebuke to those who took advantage of Israel during their time of distress. The speaker, likely God or His messenger, criticizes the actions of others for entering into Jerusalem's gates and taking what was not theirs in times of suffering.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you were sick and sad, and your friend came over to take all your toys. That would be very mean, right? This verse is talking about people who did something similar when the Israelites were hurting badly.
Historical Background
Obadiah wrote this oracle likely during or shortly after the Babylonian invasion of Jerusalem (around 586 BCE). The message targets Edom, a neighboring nation that capitalized on Judah's calamity by seizing their resources and territories.
Living It Out Today
In today’s world, we might see people who take advantage when others are in crisis. For instance, raising prices during a disaster or exploiting someone's vulnerabilities. This verse reminds us to act with compassion rather than greed.
Topics
justicecompassionexploitationneighborhoodsufferingrighteousness
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the 'thou' in this verse?
The 'thou' refers to Edom, a neighboring nation that took advantage of Judah during their time of calamity.
How does this relate to Jesus' teachings?
This relates to Jesus’ teaching on loving one’s neighbor as oneself and the parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing compassion over exploitation in times of need.
What is the punishment for such actions according to the Bible?
In biblical context, those who exploit others during their calamity face divine judgment and condemnation, as seen in Obadiah’s oracle against Edom.
Why was it considered so wrong to take advantage of Judah?
Taking advantage of a nation in distress goes against the principles of justice and compassion. It exploits vulnerability and exacerbates suffering, which is condemned throughout scripture.