Abstract:
This paper presents a poetic and social-scientific analysis of the book
of Obadiah. It suggests that the social and theological problems to
which the book forms a response is the attempt of the people of Judah
to come to terms with Edom’s betrayal of them. This breach of loyalty
by an ally is interpreted as an act of arrogance against Judah’s patron
God, Yahweh. The community of believers is urged to find consolation
in the faith and hope that Yahweh will restore his honour, and that of
his people, by completely shaming the Edomites in the international
arena.
