Old Testament
Obadiah 1:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Obadiah 1:5, the prophet uses the analogy of thieves and grape gatherers to illustrate the complete devastation that will come upon Edom.
- Author
- Obadiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Israel concerning Edom
If thieves came to you, if robbers by night—how you are cut off!—wouldn't they have stolen until they had enough? If grape gatherers came to you, wouldn't they leave some grapes?
If thieves came to thee, if robbers by night, (how art thou cut off!) would they not have stolen till they had enough? if the grapegatherers came to thee, would they not leave some grapes?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Obadiah 1:5, the prophet uses the analogy of thieves and grape gatherers to illustrate the complete devastation that will come upon Edom. He points out that even thieves and robbers, who take what they want, usually leave something behind. However, Edom's fate will be so severe that nothing will be spared. This verse emphasizes the totality of their loss and the judgment they will face for their actions against Israel. The imagery of grape gatherers leaving some grapes highlights that Edom's destruction will be more thorough than even the most ruthless thieves. The message serves as a warning about the consequences of pride and betrayal, particularly in the context of Edom's treatment of their brother nation, Israel. It underscores the idea that divine judgment can be absolute, leaving no room for mercy or recovery.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Obadiah 1:5 to your life
This verse reminds us that our actions have consequences, especially when we harm others. It encourages us to reflect on our relationships and treat others with kindness and respect. We should be mindful of how our behavior can impact those around us, striving to build rather than destroy.
Curated for this public verse page. Obadiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Obadiah 1:5 mean?
Obadiah 1:5 uses the analogy of thieves and grape gatherers to illustrate the complete devastation that will befall Edom. It emphasizes that unlike thieves who leave something behind, Edom will face total loss as a consequence of their actions against Israel.
What is the significance of thieves in Obadiah 1:5?
The mention of thieves in Obadiah 1:5 highlights the idea that even the most ruthless take only what they need and leave some behind. This serves to underscore the severity of Edom's judgment, indicating that their destruction will be more complete than that of a thief.
What does the grape gatherers analogy mean in Obadiah 1:5?
In Obadiah 1:5, the analogy of grape gatherers suggests that even those who harvest would leave some grapes behind. This illustrates that Edom's fate will be so dire that nothing will remain, emphasizing the totality of their loss.
What themes are present in Obadiah 1:5?
Obadiah 1:5 presents themes of divine judgment, pride, betrayal, and the consequences of actions. It serves as a warning about the repercussions of harming others, particularly in the context of Edom's treatment of Israel.
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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