The Composition of the Book of Obadiah

There is no agreement among scholars regarding the composition of the small book of Obadiah. Some view the Book as a collection of different fragments whereas others however, are of the opinion that the Book is of one unit. While the unifying elements are apparent, various points in the book reflect different political and historical backgrounds. These features will be discussed. I will attempt to show that the author prophesied about Edom at three different stages of the rapid changing situation of the 6th century BCE, and the book was updated in accordance with these situations. The first prophetic piece reflects a pre-exilic period, an update following the events of 586 BCE was added, and a third section that deflects a later period, probably a post-exilic date, in which the Edomite penetration to Judea became prominent. Thus the Book reflects three positions towards Edom that originated in three continues but diverse situations. I will demonstrate how the first layer is parallel to the pre-exilic period, the second to the exilic period, and the third to the post exilic period. While the first layer has obvious connections with Jeremiah, the second layer shares some common features with Joel, and the third can be seen in light of the work of Malachi. In line of these findings the role of Obadiah in the book of Twelve will be determined.