Obadiah 1:13Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Once more, he details the wrongdoings of the Idumeans, illustrating their cruelty and lack of compassion. The discourse is presented in a manner that suggests God is addressing them during a time of their own suffering, rebuking their iniquities. The term ‘despise’ indicates a tendency to mock and take pleasure in witnessing the misfortunes of others, contrary to the teaching that one should not find joy in the suffering of others (Sir 7:11). Following the admonition, ‘Let not thou rejoice,’ he reiterates the wicked actions of the Idumeans, highlighting their merciless nature towards their own kin. He warns them not to swiftly rush to the gates like the Assyrians, not to extend help as brothers would, but to wreak havoc instead.

You must not show disdain for his misfortunes on the day of his downfall, nor assist his adversaries during his calamity. You are not to stand at the exits to harm those who flee, nor confine the survivors on that day of distress. When captivity befalls you, amid devastation and destruction, consider this: do not look down upon your brother Jacob on the day of his downfall, nor align yourself with the Babylonian forces, nor oppose the army of Judah as they face defeat and retreat. As they flee by familiar routes and take paths towards the wilderness, do not lie in wait at the crossroads to kill those who escape, nor detain the others, nor seize them for yourself or hand them over to their enemies.

Refrain from entering the gates of the populace during their time of affliction. Do not join with those who raid the city of your relatives. Do not look down upon their community in the time of their distress. Do not celebrate like outsiders at their suffering. Do not seek to exploit their weakness when they face ruin. And do not worsen their hardship by launching an attack against them.