10: Violence here is a very strong word used to solicit a strong reaction to those who would commit such atrocity against a brother. This brings great shame upon an otherwise proud people. They have been cut off in that there is not an Edomite (Idumaean) national presence today.
11: The Edomites took sides with the Babylonians. The casting of lots here referred to was common in ancient times. They would have cast lots to determine the extent and direction of their conquest, or to divide the spoils. The Edomites were right there with them.
12: Beginning in this verse, Obadiah lists seven things that Edom ‘should not’ have done. First, they should not gloat over the Jews as they were being alienated from their own land. Second, they should not have had a celebration when Jacob was defeated. Third, they should not have taken the opportunity to boast.
13: Fourth, they should not have invaded Judah’s territory. Fifth, they should have taken no pleasure in the pain of their brothers, or enjoyed taking their stuff.
14: Sixth, they should never have acted as guards for the enemy, to ensure complete victory over their own kin. Finally, they should not have snitched on those who had escaped from the foe.