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Book of Obadiah - Chapter 1 - Verse 16

1:16
For as ye have drunk upon my holy mountain, so shall all the heathen drink continually, yea, they shall drink, and they shall swallow down, and they shall be as though they had not been.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Obadiah in the Bible holds both a warning and a promise. The prophet Obadiah speaks of the judgment that will come upon the heathen nations who have oppressed God's chosen people, Israel. The imagery of drinking upon God's holy mountain symbolizes the arrogance and pride of the oppressors who have defied the Lord and mistreated His people. The consequent judgment is described as the heathen drinking continually, swallowing down their punishment until they are wiped out and forgotten. This verse serves as a reminder of God's justice and the consequences that await those who go against His will. It also emphasizes the ultimate triumph of His righteousness and the restoration of His people. For those who trust in God and follow His ways, this verse offers hope that injustice and oppression will not prevail in the end.

Theological Overview

This verse from the book of Obadiah speaks of the consequences that will befall the nations that have mistreated God's people. The mention of drinking on God's holy mountain symbolizes indulging in arrogance and sin, resulting in the downfall of those who oppress the righteous. The word 'drink' is used metaphorically to represent the actions and attitudes of the oppressors. The repetitive nature of the phrase "they shall drink, and they shall swallow down" emphasizes the certainty and severity of the judgment that will be handed down to those who harm God's chosen people. The final part of the verse, "and they shall be as though they had not been," suggests complete annihilation and oblivion for those who go against God's will. This verse serves as a reminder of God's justice and ultimate triumph over evil, offering comfort and hope to those who put their trust in Him.

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