v1-3: Divine wrath against all the nations, as in chapter 24. This is something yet to be, and quite terrifying. The physical evidence of piles of stinking bodies is equally uncomfortable.

v4: Disturbances in the skies as well, as in Rev 6.12-14; this is indicative of God’s mighty power; for He alone is able to do all these things, in accordance with His own word.

v5-7: The sword of the Lord bringing judgment, and even a sacrifice. The description of the sacrifice is about God getting glory for Himself, in that His character is made manifest. In context here, judgment falls on Edom, as is also described in Obadiah. The language is severe and disturbing. But Edom, it seems, had betrayed Judah, his brother; he pursued him with the sword, and kept his wrath through the generations, Amos 1.11. It seems that, when Babylon captured Jerusalem, Edom joined in supporting Babylon, and in plundering the city.

v8: The day of vengeance for the cause of Zion; God is utterly faithful to His own, making a clear distinction with those who are unbelieving.

v9-15: Edom is picked out, but this may be representative of all the nations who reject the true God, and who attack the people of God. Even so, there are specific prophecies concerning the desolation of Edom.

v16-17: See 14.27; God’s word is true; these things happen because God has spoken; He has power to bring His own word to fulfilment.