Topical Encyclopedia Geographical and Historical Context:Idumaea, also known as Edom, is a region of significant historical and biblical importance located to the south of ancient Judah, extending from the southern part of the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba. The territory is characterized by its rugged terrain and red sandstone mountains, which are reflected in its name, as "Edom" means "red" in Hebrew. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, inhabited this region. The relationship between the Israelites and the Edomites was complex, marked by both kinship and conflict. Biblical References: The Bible frequently mentions Idumaea and its people, the Edomites. In Genesis 36:8, the Berean Standard Bible states, "So Esau (that is, Edom) settled in the hill country of Seir." This verse establishes the connection between Esau and the land of Edom, highlighting the ancestral roots of the Edomites. Throughout the Old Testament, the Edomites often appear as adversaries of Israel. In Numbers 20:14-21, the Israelites, during their wilderness journey, requested passage through Edom but were denied, leading to a detour around the land. This incident exemplifies the tension between the two nations. The prophets frequently pronounced judgments against Edom for their hostility towards Israel. Obadiah, in particular, is a prophetic book dedicated to the condemnation of Edom. Obadiah 1:10 declares, "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever." This verse underscores the divine retribution prophesied against Edom for their actions against Israel. Cultural and Religious Significance: Idumaea holds a significant place in biblical history due to its association with Esau and its role in the narrative of Israel's journey and conflicts. The Edomites' refusal to assist the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt is a pivotal moment that reflects the longstanding enmity between the two nations. Despite their opposition to Israel, the Edomites were also part of God's broader plan. The prophets' oracles against Edom serve as reminders of God's justice and sovereignty over all nations. The eventual downfall of Edom, as prophesied, is seen as a fulfillment of divine judgment. Later Historical Developments: In the intertestamental period, Idumaea came under the control of various empires, including the Babylonians, Persians, and eventually the Greeks. During the Hasmonean dynasty, John Hyrcanus I conquered Idumaea around 125 BC and forced the Edomites to convert to Judaism. This led to the integration of the Idumaeans into Jewish society, with Herod the Great, an Idumaean, becoming king of Judea under Roman rule. Conclusion: Idumaea's history is a testament to the complex interplay of kinship, conflict, and divine providence in the biblical narrative. Its legacy is intertwined with the account of Israel and the unfolding of God's purposes throughout the Old Testament. Easton's Bible Dictionary The Greek form of Edom (Isaiah 34:5, 6; Ezek. 35:15; 36:5, but in R.V. "Edom"). (see EDOM). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia IDUMAEA; IDUMAEANSid-u-me'-a, id-u-me'-anz. Greek 2401. Idoumaia -- Idumea, a region South of Judea ... Idumaea. Of Hebrew origin ('Edom); Idumaea (ie Edom), a region East (and South) of Palestine -- Idumaea. see HEBREW 'Edom. (idoumaias) -- 1 Occurrence. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2401.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 2510. Chalaq -- "smooth," a mountain South of the Dead Sea... Halak. The same as chalaq; bare; Chalak, a mountain of Idumaea -- Halak. see HEBREW chalaq. 2509, 2510. Chalaq. 2511 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/2510.htm - 6k 6811. Tsair -- a place on the border of Edom 4957. Masreqah -- a place in Edom 2023. Hor -- two mountains in Palestine 8165. Seir -- a mountain range in Edom, also its inhab., also a ... 3371. Yoqtheel -- a city in Judah, also a city in Edom 5554. Sela -- a city in Edom 123. edom -- the name of a condiment 2928. Telem -- an Israelite, also a place in the desert of Judah 1381. Gebal -- a region South of the Dead Sea Library A Brother to all who do the Will of God For the King There were Three Great Perils: the People... Jesus Heals Multitudes Beside the Sea of Galilee. A Multitude of Disciples. The Morning-Meal in the Pharisee's House - Meals and Feasts among ... The Reaction against Egypt The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Thesaurus Idumaea (1 Occurrence)... (see EDOM). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. IDUMAEA; IDUMAEANS. id-u-me'-a, id-u-me'-anz. See EDOM. Multi-Version Concordance Idumaea (1 Occurrence). ... /i/idumaea.htm - 7k Edomites (22 Occurrences) Edom (108 Occurrences) Idumaeans Asmoneans Vicinity (18 Occurrences) Vast (54 Occurrences) Kabzeel (3 Occurrences) Gorgias Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Idumaea (1 Occurrence)Mark 3:8 Subtopics Related Terms |