Ezekiel 35:15

As you rejoiced when the inheritance of the house of Israel became desolate, so will I do to you. You will become a desolation, O Mount Seir, and so will all of Edom. Then they will know that I am the LORD.

Study Bible

As you rejoiced
The phrase "as you rejoiced" indicates a malicious delight taken by Edom in the misfortunes of Israel. The Hebrew root for "rejoiced" is "śāmaḥ," which often conveys a sense of joy or gladness. However, in this context, it is a joy derived from the suffering of others, which is condemned by God. Historically, Edom, descended from Esau, had a long-standing enmity with Israel, descended from Jacob. This enmity is highlighted in various scriptural accounts, such as in Obadiah and Psalm 137:7, where Edom's hostility is evident. The rejoicing here is not just a personal emotion but a national attitude that reflects a deep-seated animosity.

when the inheritance of the house of Israel became desolate
The "inheritance of the house of Israel" refers to the land promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Hebrew word for "inheritance" is "naḥălâ," which signifies a possession or heritage, often with a divine promise attached. The desolation of this inheritance occurred during the Babylonian conquest, when Jerusalem was destroyed, and the people were exiled. This was a time of great sorrow for Israel, and Edom's rejoicing over this desolation is seen as a grievous sin. The historical context here is crucial, as it underscores the fulfillment of prophetic warnings given to Israel for their disobedience, yet it also highlights the inappropriate response of Edom.

so will I deal with you
This phrase is a declaration of divine retribution. The Hebrew root "ʿāśâ" for "deal" implies an action or deed, often with a sense of recompense or judgment. God's response to Edom's gloating is not arbitrary but a measured act of justice. The principle of divine justice is a recurring theme in the Bible, where God promises to repay according to one's deeds (Romans 2:6). This reflects the biblical concept of "measure for measure," where the actions of individuals or nations are met with corresponding consequences.

You will become a desolation, O Mount Seir
"Mount Seir" is a geographical region associated with Edom, often used synonymously with the nation itself. The term "desolation" comes from the Hebrew "šāmēm," meaning to be laid waste or ruined. This prophecy against Mount Seir signifies a complete and utter devastation, mirroring the fate they rejoiced over for Israel. Archaeologically, the region of Edom has been studied extensively, revealing periods of prosperity and decline, aligning with biblical narratives. The desolation prophesied here serves as a warning and a fulfillment of God's promise to judge those who oppose His people.

and so will all of Edom
The inclusion of "all of Edom" emphasizes the totality of the judgment. It is not just Mount Seir but the entire nation that will face desolation. Historically, Edom's downfall began with the Babylonian conquest and continued with subsequent empires, leading to its eventual disappearance as a distinct entity. This comprehensive judgment underscores the seriousness of Edom's sin and God's commitment to justice.

Then they will know that I am the LORD
This concluding phrase is a common refrain in Ezekiel, emphasizing the recognition of God's sovereignty and authority. The Hebrew "yāḏaʿ" for "know" implies an experiential understanding, not just intellectual acknowledgment. Through the fulfillment of these prophecies, both Israel and the surrounding nations would come to recognize the LORD's power and faithfulness. This acknowledgment is central to the biblical narrative, where God's actions in history reveal His character and purposes, calling all people to recognize and worship Him as the one true God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. He conveyed God's messages of judgment and restoration.

2. Mount Seir
A mountainous region associated with the Edomites, descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. It symbolizes the nation of Edom in this passage.

3. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, often in conflict with Israel. Edom's hostility towards Israel is a recurring theme in the Old Testament.

4. House of Israel
Refers to the people of Israel, God's chosen nation, who were experiencing judgment and exile during Ezekiel's time.

5. Desolation
The state of being deserted and barren, which is both a literal and metaphorical consequence of divine judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Justice
God's judgment on Edom for their rejoicing over Israel's misfortune demonstrates His commitment to justice. We are reminded that God sees and will address all injustices.

Pride and Its Consequences
Edom's pride led to their downfall. This serves as a warning against arrogance and taking pleasure in others' misfortunes.

God's Sovereignty
The prophecy underscores God's control over nations and history. Believers can trust in God's ultimate plan and timing.

Empathy and Compassion
Instead of rejoicing in others' hardships, we are called to show empathy and compassion, reflecting God's love and mercy.

Recognition of God
The repeated phrase "Then they will know that I am the LORD" emphasizes the purpose of God's actions: to reveal His identity and power to all nations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical relationship between Israel and Edom help us understand the context of Ezekiel 35:15?

2. In what ways can pride manifest in our lives, and how can we guard against it, considering the example of Edom?

3. How does the theme of God's justice in Ezekiel 35:15 relate to the New Testament teachings on justice and mercy?

4. What are some practical ways we can show empathy and compassion to those who are suffering, in light of Edom's failure to do so?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper recognition of God's sovereignty in our daily lives, as emphasized in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Obadiah 1
This book also addresses the judgment against Edom for their pride and hostility towards Israel, reinforcing the themes found in Ezekiel 35.

Psalm 137
Reflects the sorrow of the Israelites during their Babylonian captivity and mentions Edom's role in their suffering.

Genesis 25
Provides background on the relationship between Jacob and Esau, the ancestors of Israel and Edom, respectively, highlighting the longstanding tension.