Obadiah 1:13
Thou shouldest not have entered into the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; yea, thou shouldest not have looked on their affliction in the day of their calamity, nor have laid hands on their substance in the day of their calamity;
Obadiah 1:13 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse you are referring to condemns the actions of those who take advantage of the vulnerable in times of distress. The gate symbolizes a place of community and protection, so entering through the gate of a people in the day of their calamity signifies exploiting their misfortune for personal gain. Looking on their affliction without offering help or sympathy is seen as callous and heartless. Laying hands on their substance, or taking advantage of their possessions or resources during a time of crisis, is considered unethical and immoral. This verse serves as a reminder to show compassion and support to those in need, rather than seeking to benefit from their downfall. It highlights the importance of empathy, kindness, and generosity towards others, especially in their times of struggle and hardship.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Obadiah highlights the prophet's condemnation of the Edomites for their actions against the people of Judah during a time of distress. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the importance of showing compassion and empathy towards others, especially in times of calamity. By entering the gate of God's people during their time of need and taking advantage of their vulnerable state, the Edomites violated the principles of justice and compassion that are central to the teachings of the Bible. The word 'calamity' in this verse refers to a time of great distress or suffering, emphasizing the vulnerability of the people of Judah and the severity of the Edomites' actions. Through this verse, we are reminded of the importance of treating others with kindness and helping those in need, rather than exploiting their misfortune for personal gain.
Obadiah 1:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
Enter not into the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; yea, look not thou on their affliction in the day of their calamity, neither lay ye [hands] on their substance in the day of their calamity.
World English Bible
Don’t enter into the gate of my people in the day of their calamity. Don’t look down on their affliction in the day of their calamity, neither seize their wealth on the day of their calamity.
Douay-Rheims
Neither shalt thou enter into the gate of my people in the day of their ruin: neither shalt thou also look on in his evils in the day of his calamity: and thou shalt not be sent out against his army in the day of his desolation.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thou shouldest not haue entred into the gate of my people, in the day of their destruction, neither shouldest thou haue once looked on their affliction in the day of their destruction, nor haue layde hands on their substance in the day of their destruction.