Obadiah (Visionary of Mount Zion)

Obadiah (meaning 'Servant of the Lord') is celebrated in Jewish tradition as a proselyte from Edom who attained the highest ranks of spiritual vision. In the Talmud, he is identified with the righteous royal steward of King Ahab who secretly sustained one hundred prophets of God on bread and water in caves during Queen Jezebel's lethal purge.

The Oracle Against Edom's Treachery

Obadiah's prophetic vision focuses upon the mountain kingdom of Edom, who dwelt in the high, impregnable rocky fortresses of Petra (Sela). When Jerusalem was pillaged by Babylon, the Edomites rejoiced in their brother Jacob's distress, cut off escaping refugees at the crossroads, and looted the fallen city.

Deliverance on Mount Zion

Obadiah condemned the pride of those who say in their heart, 'Who shall bring me down to the ground?' He proclaimed the divine principle of retributive justice: 'As thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head.' The book concludes with the glorious vision of deliverance upon Mount Zion, when saviors shall arise and the kingdom shall be the Lord's.