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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Obadiah 1:2. It’s a really powerful and somewhat unsettling one, and it speaks to a deep sense of shame and isolation. Here's a simplified explanation: What it means in plain English: “Behold, I have made thee small among the heathen: thou art greatly despised.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Behold…” : This is a command or an observation – like saying “Watch this!” or “This is happening.” It's drawing attention to something important. “…I have made thee small among the heathen…” : This means that God has treated you, and perhaps your people, as insignificant compared to the vastness and power of other nations (the "heathen"). He’s essentially saying you are not valued or recognized by those outside of your own community. It suggests a feeling of being overlooked and unimportant. “…Thou art greatly despised.” : This is the core of the verse. “Thou” means "you." The word “despised” means to be hated, reviled, or treated with contempt. The speaker is saying that you are strongly disliked by others – a significant and painful feeling. What it’s suggesting (Possible Interpretations - these aren't definitive): Feeling of Isolation: The verse might suggest a profound sense of loneliness and isolation because your community, your faith, or your position is not valued. Disappointment: It could be a reflection on unmet expectations – perhaps you believed you were important, but you’re now feeling dismissed. Fear & Shame: The phrase "greatly despised" hints at a deep sense of shame and fear – because of this perceived rejection, you might feel unworthy or ashamed of your identity. Important Note: Biblical passages are often layered with symbolism and meaning. This verse is significant as it’s part of a larger narrative about God’s judgment and the consequences of rejecting His word. It speaks to a serious situation where faith isn't recognized and valued. To help me explain it even better, could you tell me: What context are you interested in? (e.g., Are you reading this in a specific book or passage?) Are there any particular questions you have about the verse?

Definition: And the captivity of this host of the children of Israel [shall possess] that of the Canaanites, [even] unto Zarephath; and the captivity of Jerusalem, which [is] in Sepharad, shall possess the cities of the south.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Obediah 1:20. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage in the Old Testament that speaks about the future fate of Israel and its neighbors. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is predicting a period of widespread captivity – being taken away – for both the Israelites (the Jewish people) and the Canaanites (people of the Levant, often associated with modern-day Lebanon and Syria). It also foretells a future where the Canaanites will occupy the cities in the south of Israel. Let’s break it down word by word: “Obadiah 1:20” : This is the name of the prophet Obediah, who wrote this passage. It's important to remember he was a prophet known for his warnings about impending judgment. “And the captivity of this host of the children of Israel…” : This refers to the Israelites’ rebellion and wandering in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. “Host” means a large group or army – essentially, they were being taken away from their homeland. “[shall possess] that of the Canaanites…” : This is where it gets more complex. "Canaanites" refers to the people who lived in the Levant (modern-day Lebanon and Syria). The verse says that of the Canaanites will possess this group – meaning they’ll control or take over them. “…unto Zarephath;” : This indicates that the Canaanites will occupy the city of Zarephath. Zarephath was a small, isolated town in southern Israel. “And the captivity of Jerusalem, which [is] in Sepharad…” : This is the most shocking part. “Sepharad” refers to the region south of Israel – essentially, the area that includes parts of modern-day Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. The verse says that of Jerusalem, which is in Sepharad will possess these cities. What does this all mean? The message of this verse is a warning about impending judgment and disaster. It suggests: A Period of Exile: It implies that the Israelites are facing a long period of exile and suffering. Destruction and Conquest: The Canaanites are portrayed as a powerful, invading force that will dominate the region. Divine Punishment: The verse emphasizes that this is not simply an unfortunate event; it’s a consequence of God's judgment against Israel. It suggests that God is punishing them for their disobedience. Important Note: The exact interpretation of the verse has been debated throughout history. Some scholars believe it refers to a specific, devastating war or invasion that was prophesied in ancient texts. Others see it as a general warning about the future of Israel’s neighbors and the potential for conflict. In short, this passage speaks of a dark future where the Canaanites will take control of the southern lands of Israel, bringing about widespread suffering and possibly destruction. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage? Compare it to other biblical prophecies?

Definition: And saviours shall come up on mount Zion to judge the mount of Esau; and the kingdom shall be the LORD’S.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Obadiah 1:21. It's a pretty serious statement about the future! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about a final judgment and the coming of God’s righteous people. It suggests that God is going to actively intervene in history, judging those who oppose Him and ultimately establishing His kingdom as the ultimate rule. Let's break it down word by word: “And saviours shall come up on mount Zion” : This refers to a future group of people – believers who are truly faithful to God. "Mount Zion" is a place in Jewish tradition, often associated with God’s dwelling place and where he resides. So, “saviors coming up” means those who are right with God and have been chosen by Him. “to judge the mount of Esau” : This is the key part! "Esau" was a figure in the Old Testament story of Jacob and his brother famine. He was considered to be a “foreigner” – someone who didn’t fully belong to God's covenant with Abraham. So, “judge the mount of Esau” means that these saviors will evaluate those who oppose God and His plan. “and the kingdom shall be the LORD’S” : This is the most important part! “Kingdom” refers to God’s eternal rule and government over all creation. "The Lord's" signifies that this kingdom isn't just a temporary thing; it’s permanent, eternal, and will last forever. Putting it All Together – A Possible Interpretation: Obadiah 1:21 suggests that God is about to bring about a final reckoning. He intends to use His power to punish those who are actively resisting Him and his plan for humanity. However, He's also establishing a future kingdom where He will rule supreme and ultimately establish the complete and eternal government of all things as it was originally intended. Important Note: This is a complex verse with different interpretations among theologians. It’s often seen as a warning about the dangers of sin and rebellion against God. --- Would you like me to: Explain any part in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible passages? Discuss its significance within a specific historical context (like the time period when it was written)?