1:1 The word vision introduces a prophetic book (Isa 1:1; Nah 1:1); it also defines what a prophet saw or sensed as a divine word (Ezek 12:26-27; Dan 8:1). A vision that did not come from the Lord was false (Jer 14:14; 23:16), the ultimate proof being its lack of fulfillment (Ezek 12:22-24). By contrast, true visions of near or distant events do come to fruition (Ezek 12:25; Hab 2:3). Prophetic visions came in various forms (dreams, extrasensory experiences; e.g., Dan 8:2). The absence of visions is a mark of divine abandonment (Lam 2:9; Ezek 7:26; Mic 3:6). • Sovereign Lord is one of several names for the God of Israel. • Obadiah was a common Hebrew name that meant “servant of the Lord.” The prophet Obadiah is unknown apart from this book. • an ambassador was sent to the nations: In ancient warfare, allies would be contacted about joining a military coalition to punish an enemy or defend against attack. Here the Sovereign Lord calls the nations to redress Edom’s evil pride. • Let’s assemble: This is a willing coalition, though ironically, they will be punished later for their own evil deeds (Obad 1:15-16).

1:11 Outside of this book, nothing specific is known of Edom’s role during the various Babylonian invasions of Judah (in 605, 597, and 586 BC). Responsibility toward one’s neighbor is a specific requirement of God’s law (e.g., Deut 22:1-4; cp. Matt 25:41-46), especially when there is either a specific “treaty of brotherhood” (Amos 1:9) or a historical relationship that is regarded as fraternal (see study note on Obad 1:6).