0

Why would people live among the rocks? (Obadiah 1:3)

The pride of your heart has deceived you,
    you who live in the clefts of the rocks
    and make your home on the heights,
you who say to yourself,
    ‘Who can bring me down to the ground?’

Obadiah 1:3

ESV - 3 The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rock, in your lofty dwelling, who say in your heart, "Who will bring me down to the ground?

Clarify Share Report Asked September 30 2019 My picture Jack Gutknecht Supporter

Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.

3
Mini Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army
In my opinion, the verse cited in the question is referring to the pride that the Edomites took in the fact that the area in which they lived was inaccessible (and therefore difficult to conquer) due both to its high elevation, and to the fact that the terrain included rocks that could be used as defensive barriers or hiding places, and that would thus similarly increase the difficulty of any opposing nation that was trying to defeat or overrun it.

However, as God pointed out through Obadiah's words, He intended to destroy the Edomites because of their pride, and also as a punishment for their harsh treatment of Israel (as noted in Obadiah 1:8-14) during Israel's time of need or misfortune. (As indicated in Obadiah 1:10, this misconduct was all the more egregious because the nations of Israel and Edom were descended from men who had been twin brothers (Jacob and Esau, respectively) as sons of Isaac (Genesis 25:19-26).)

October 08 2019 1 response Vote Up Share Report


2
Mini Eddie Mayfield Supporter
I think of Petra in Jordan while reading the description of where the Edomites lived. Beautiful temples and buildings literally carved into the side of a cliff. A place of great pride and a place that is difficult to access due the narrow passage leading into it.

But their sins of helping to persecute their Hebrew kinsman and their arrogant pride angered God. As a result, they faced terrible judgment, despite their accomplishments, and seeming invincibility.

June 05 2023 0 responses Vote Up Share Report


Add your Answer

All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.

What makes a good answer? ▼

A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.

  1. Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
  2. Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
  3. Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
  4. Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
  5. For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible
Header
  1. 4000 characters remaining