Old Testament
Obadiah 1:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Obadiah 1:15 emphasizes the impending judgment of God on all nations, particularly those who have acted unjustly.
- Author
- Obadiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Israel concerning Edom
For the day of the LORD is near for all the heathen: as you have done, it will be done to you; your reward will return upon your own head.
For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Obadiah 1:15 emphasizes the impending judgment of God on all nations, particularly those who have acted unjustly. The phrase 'the day of the LORD' signifies a time when God will intervene in human affairs, bringing justice and retribution. The verse warns that the actions taken against others will come back to haunt the perpetrators, suggesting a principle of divine justice where one's deeds will have consequences. This reflects the idea that what one does to others will ultimately be done to them, reinforcing the moral law of reciprocity. The verse serves as a reminder that God sees all actions and will hold individuals and nations accountable for their behavior, especially towards His people. It calls for self-reflection and caution in how one treats others, as the day of reckoning is near for all who engage in wrongdoing.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Obadiah 1:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to treat others with kindness and fairness, knowing that our actions have consequences. It serves as a reminder to reflect on our behavior and to act justly, as we will ultimately face the repercussions of our deeds. Living with integrity is essential.
Curated for this public verse page. Obadiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Obadiah 1:15 mean?
Obadiah 1:15 means that God's judgment is imminent for all nations, especially those who have acted unjustly. It highlights the principle that the wrongs done to others will eventually come back to the wrongdoer.
What is the meaning of 'the day of the LORD' in Obadiah 1:15?
'The day of the LORD' refers to a time when God will intervene in human affairs to bring justice and retribution. It signifies a moment of accountability for actions taken against others.
How does Obadiah 1:15 relate to accountability?
Obadiah 1:15 relates to accountability by reminding us that God sees all actions and will hold individuals and nations responsible for their behavior, particularly towards His people.
What themes are present in Obadiah 1:15?
The themes present in Obadiah 1:15 include divine judgment, reciprocity, accountability, justice, and the consequences of actions, highlighting the importance of treating others fairly.

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.
Unlock the full Obadiah summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Obadiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 1 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Obadiah summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.