O is for Obadiah

My A to Z blogging theme is characters in (people from) the scriptures. Since my blog is a book blog, this theme would fit right in and help me strengthen a weakness at the same. How fantastic is that?!  This challenge is a blessing. Thank you A to Z Challenge team!  *Book: LDS quad combo scriptures: KJV Holy Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine & Covenants, Pearl of Great Price. (p)1989, (c)1979.

(The Prophet Obadiah by James Tissot)

Obadiah was a prophet estimated to be a contemporary to Jeremiah since they prophesied of the destruction of Edom in similar ways.  His book is the shortest book in the Old Testament (one chapter, 21 verses).  Nothing is known of his personal life and family.  Another man named Obadiah was mentioned in 1 Kings but he was not likely this prophet Obadiah.  Hence, the book of Obadiah basically was an account of said seer's vision of the downfall of Edom and salvation of Israel.

In my understanding, it appears that Edom (aka Esau) and his brother Jacob (Israel) have had contentions early on.  The people of Edom being the wicked ones because of their hatred for Israel, like Babylon, became a symbol of the world (wicked).  The reasons for their doom were the violence shown against their brother Jacob and their rejoicing at the destruction of the children of Judah in the day of distress. (v.10, 12).  Then Obadiah concludes his book with reference to his vision of the day when Israel will be completely restored and evil eliminated ..Mount Zion (symbol for deliverance and holiness) will be the inheritance of the house of Jacob, while the house of Esau will be stubble.  So it looks like we better be on Jacob's team! :D