Old Testament
Obadiah 1:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Obadiah 1:11 addresses the actions of Edom during a time of crisis for Israel.
- Author
- Obadiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Israel concerning Edom
On the day you stood aside, when strangers carried away his forces and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were just like one of them.
In the day that thou stoodest on the other side, in the day that the strangers carried away captive his forces, and foreigners entered into his gates, and cast lots upon Jerusalem, even thou wast as one of them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Obadiah 1:11 addresses the actions of Edom during a time of crisis for Israel. The verse highlights how Edom stood by and did nothing while enemies attacked Jerusalem. Instead of helping their brother nation, they watched as strangers took captives and looted the city. This passive behavior is condemned, as it shows a lack of loyalty and compassion. The verse implies that Edom's indifference made them complicit in the suffering of Israel, equating their inaction to that of the attackers. This serves as a warning against apathy in the face of injustice and suffering, emphasizing the importance of standing up for those in need, especially when they are our own kin. The broader message is about accountability and the moral obligation to support others in times of trouble, rather than remaining neutral or indifferent.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Obadiah 1:11 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our responses to the suffering of others. We should not stand by when we see injustice or hardship, especially among those close to us. Instead, we are called to take action and support those in need, demonstrating true compassion and loyalty.
Curated for this public verse page. Obadiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Obadiah 1:11 mean?
Obadiah 1:11 means that Edom failed to help Israel during a time of crisis, showing indifference while enemies attacked Jerusalem. This verse condemns their inaction, equating it to being complicit with the attackers.
What is the significance of Edom's actions in Obadiah 1:11?
Edom's actions in Obadiah 1:11 highlight a lack of loyalty and compassion towards their brother nation, Israel. Their passive stance during Israel's suffering serves as a warning against indifference in the face of injustice.
What does 'stood aside' refer to in Obadiah 1:11?
'Stood aside' in Obadiah 1:11 refers to Edom's choice to remain passive and not intervene while enemies attacked Jerusalem. This phrase emphasizes their failure to act in support of their kin during a critical moment.
How does Obadiah 1:11 relate to accountability?
Obadiah 1:11 relates to accountability by illustrating that failing to act in the face of injustice makes one complicit in the wrongdoing. It stresses the moral obligation to support those in need, particularly when they are family or close allies.
The Book of Obadiah
Obadiah 1: Judgment on Edom and the Day of the Lord
The vision of Obadiah begins with a message from the Lord GOD concerning Edom. A report goes out among the nations, calling them to rise up against Edom for battle. The Lord declares that Edom is made small among the nations and deeply despised. Edom lives in the clefts of the rock and sets its dwelling high, saying in its heart that no one can bring it down. The Lord answers that even if Edom rises like an eagle and sets its nest among the stars, He will bring it down. Thieves and grape gatherers leave something behind, but Esau is searched out completely and his hidden things are uncovered. His allies deceive him, and those at peace with him lay a trap. The wise men of Edom and the understanding of mount Esau are cut off, and the mighty men of Teman are dismayed.
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