Old Testament
Obadiah 1:11
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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.
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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.
What Obadiah 1:11 means
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.
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
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At a Glance — the Book of Obadiah
- Author
- Obadiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Israel concerning Edom
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.
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