Obadiah 1:2

Modern

“Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you will be deeply despised.

Traditional

Behold, I have made thee small among the heathen: thou art greatly despised.

Literal

Behold, I am making you small among the nations—you are exceedingly despised.

Latin

Ecce parvulum dedi te in gentibus: contemptibilis tu es valde.

Hebrew

English

“Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you will be deeply despised.

I will make you small: Several messages of judgment describe Edom’s specific sins against Israel (Obadiah 1:10–14; Jeremiah 49:7–22; Ezekiel 25:12–14; 36:5). Edom often appears among the nations that opposed Israel and the Lord (Isaiah 34; Ezekiel 35–36; Amos 9:1–15).
small among the nations … The pride of your heart: Edom’s rocky landscape reflected the pride of its people. Just as their land was high and difficult to reach, the people of Edom thought they were secure and above others. The height of the mountain fortress that provided their security only highlights the height from which Edom would fall. Edomite princes were among the arrogant rulers of the nations (Ezekiel 32:29; compare Genesis 36; 1 Chronicles 1:43–54).

Theme notes and profiles

Isaiah 23:9
The LORD of Hosts planned it, to defile all its glorious beauty, to disgrace all the renowned of the earth.
Numbers 24:18
Edom will become a possession, as will Seir, his enemy; but Israel will perform with valor.
Luke 1:51–52
He has performed mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who are proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
Job 34:25–29
Therefore, He recognizes their deeds; He overthrows them in the night and they are crushed.
Micah 7:10
Then my enemy will see and will be covered with shame—she who said to me, “Where is the LORD your God?” My eyes will see her; at that time she will be trampled like mud in the streets.
Psalm 107:39–40
When they are decreased and humbled by oppression, evil, and sorrow,
1 Samuel 2:7–8
The LORD sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and He exalts.
Ezekiel 29:15
Egypt will be the lowliest of kingdoms and will never again exalt itself above the nations. For I will diminish Egypt so that it will never again rule over the nations.