Topical Bible: Edomites: Become Confederates of Jehoshaphat

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The Edomites, descendants of Esau, have a complex and often adversarial relationship with the Israelites throughout biblical history. However, during the reign of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, there is a notable instance where the Edomites become confederates with Judah, illustrating a temporary alliance that serves a greater divine purpose.

Historical Context

Jehoshaphat, the son of Asa, reigned over Judah from approximately 873 to 849 BC. He is noted for his religious reforms and efforts to bring the people of Judah back to the worship of Yahweh. Jehoshaphat's reign is marked by a period of relative peace and prosperity, largely attributed to his faithfulness to God and his strategic political alliances.

Alliance with Edom

The alliance between Jehoshaphat and the Edomites is most prominently featured in the account of the battle against the Moabites and Ammonites. In 2 Chronicles 20, a coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and some Meunites (or Edomites, as some translations suggest) come against Jehoshaphat. Alarmed by the threat, Jehoshaphat seeks the Lord in prayer and proclaims a fast throughout Judah.

Jehoshaphat's prayer is a model of faith and reliance on God, as he acknowledges God's sovereignty and past deliverances. In response, the Spirit of the Lord comes upon Jahaziel, a Levite, who assures the king and the people that the battle is not theirs but God's. The Lord promises deliverance without the need for Judah to fight.

Divine Intervention and Victory

The next day, Jehoshaphat leads his people to the battlefield, appointing singers to praise the Lord in the beauty of holiness. As they begin to sing and praise, the Lord sets ambushes against the enemies, causing them to turn on each other. The Edomites, along with the Moabites and Ammonites, are defeated without Judah having to lift a sword.

The Berean Standard Bible recounts this miraculous victory: "As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come against Judah, and they were defeated" (2 Chronicles 20:22).

Significance of the Alliance

The involvement of the Edomites in this narrative is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates the sovereignty of God in orchestrating events for His purposes, even using traditional enemies of Israel to fulfill His plans. Secondly, it highlights the power of faith and worship in securing divine intervention. Jehoshaphat's reliance on God and his leadership in turning the people's hearts towards worship play a crucial role in the victory.

Furthermore, this alliance, albeit temporary, underscores the potential for reconciliation and cooperation among the descendants of Jacob and Esau, albeit under divine orchestration. It serves as a reminder of the complex interplay of human relationships and divine will throughout biblical history.

Conclusion

The episode of the Edomites becoming confederates with Jehoshaphat is a testament to the power of faith, prayer, and worship in the face of overwhelming odds. It also illustrates the intricate dynamics of alliances and enmities in the biblical narrative, where even adversaries can be used by God to achieve His purposes.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 3:9,26
So the king of Israel went, and the king of Judah, and the king of Edom: and they fetched a compass of seven days' journey: and there was no water for the host, and for the cattle that followed them.
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The Antiquities of the Jews
... CHAPTER 4. Jehoram Succeeds Jehoshaphat; How Joram, His ... An Expedition Against The
Edomites And Amalekites ... CHAPTER 8. The Jews Become Confederates With Caesar ...
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