The biblical theme of divine judgment on Egypt and Edom is a significant motif that underscores God's sovereignty and justice. These judgments are depicted in various prophetic books of the Old Testament, where both nations are portrayed as adversaries of Israel and, by extension, opponents of God's divine plan.

Judgment on Egypt

Egypt, a powerful and influential nation in the ancient Near East, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a place of both refuge and oppression for the Israelites. The most notable instance of judgment on Egypt is found in the Exodus narrative, where God delivers the Israelites from slavery through a series of plagues culminating in the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 7-14). This event is a foundational account of liberation and divine intervention.

In the prophetic literature, Egypt is often depicted as a symbol of worldly power and idolatry. The prophet Isaiah proclaims judgment against Egypt, emphasizing that their reliance on false gods and military might will lead to their downfall. Isaiah 19:1 states, "Behold, the LORD rides on a swift cloud and is coming to Egypt. The idols of Egypt will tremble before Him, and the hearts of the Egyptians will melt within them."

Jeremiah also prophesies against Egypt, particularly in Jeremiah 46, where he foretells the defeat of Pharaoh Necho at the hands of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. Jeremiah 46:25-26 declares, "The LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'Behold, I will punish Amon of Thebes, Pharaoh, Egypt, her gods and her kings, and those who trust in Pharaoh. I will hand them over to those who seek their lives, to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and his officers.'"

Ezekiel further elaborates on Egypt's judgment, predicting its desolation and the scattering of its people. Ezekiel 29-32 contains a series of oracles against Egypt, highlighting its pride and eventual humiliation. Ezekiel 30:13 states, "This is what the Lord GOD says: 'I will destroy the idols and put an end to the images in Memphis. There will no longer be a prince in Egypt, and I will instill fear in the land of Egypt.'"

Judgment on Edom

Edom, the descendants of Esau, is another nation frequently mentioned in the context of divine judgment. The Edomites are portrayed as perpetual enemies of Israel, often rejoicing in Israel's misfortunes and participating in their oppression.

The prophet Obadiah delivers a concise yet powerful message of judgment against Edom. Obadiah 1:10-12 states, "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame and cut off forever. On the day you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were like one of them. But you should not gloat over your brother in the day of his misfortune, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boast so much in the day of their trouble."

Isaiah also speaks against Edom, emphasizing the inevitability of their destruction. Isaiah 34:5-6 declares, "For My sword has drunk its fill in the heavens; behold, it will descend in judgment upon Edom, upon the people I have devoted to destruction. The sword of the LORD is bathed in blood; it is covered with fat, with the blood of lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams. For the LORD has a sacrifice in Bozrah, a great slaughter in the land of Edom."

Jeremiah echoes this theme, predicting Edom's desolation and the absence of any survivors. Jeremiah 49:17-18 states, "Edom will become an object of horror. All who pass by will be appalled and will scoff at all her wounds. As Sodom and Gomorrah were overthrown along with their neighbors,' says the LORD, 'no one will live there; no man will dwell there.'"

Ezekiel also prophesies against Edom, condemning their actions against Israel and foretelling their ruin. Ezekiel 25:12-14 says, "This is what the Lord GOD says: 'Because Edom acted vengefully against the house of Judah and incurred grievous guilt by taking revenge on them, therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: I will stretch out My hand against Edom and cut off man and beast from it. I will lay it waste; from Teman to Dedan they will fall by the sword. I will take My vengeance on Edom through My people Israel, and they will deal with Edom according to My anger and wrath. They will know My vengeance,' declares the Lord GOD."

The judgments on Egypt and Edom serve as reminders of God's justice and the consequences of opposing His will. These prophetic declarations highlight the themes of divine retribution, the futility of idolatry, and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes.