Topical Bible: Inhospitableness: Edom

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◄ Inhospitableness: Edom ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Edom, a nation descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob, is frequently mentioned in the Bible for its inhospitable actions towards the Israelites. The inhospitableness of Edom is a significant theme in the biblical narrative, reflecting a broader spiritual and moral lesson about the treatment of others, especially those with whom one shares a familial or historical connection.

Historical Context

Edom was located to the southeast of Israel, in a region characterized by rugged terrain and a strategic position along key trade routes. The Edomites were known for their fortified cities and their control over the King's Highway, a major trade route that connected the Red Sea with Damascus and beyond. This geographical advantage often placed Edom in a position of power over neighboring nations, including Israel.

Biblical Accounts of Inhospitableness

1. Refusal of Passage: One of the most notable instances of Edom's inhospitableness is recorded in the Book of Numbers. As the Israelites journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land, they requested passage through Edom. Despite being kin, Edom refused and even threatened military action. Numbers 20:18-21 states, "But Edom answered, 'You may not pass through our land, or we will march out and confront you with the sword.' Again the Israelites replied, 'We will stay on the main road, and if we or our livestock drink your water, we will pay for it. There will be no need for us to go through any field or vineyard.' But Edom insisted, 'You may not pass through.' And Edom came out to confront them with a large army and a strong hand. So Edom refused to allow Israel to pass through their territory, and Israel turned away from them."

2. Hostility and Betrayal: The inhospitableness of Edom is further highlighted in the prophetic literature. The prophet Obadiah condemns Edom for its betrayal and violence against Israel during times of distress. Obadiah 1:10-12 declares, "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed 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."

3. Judgment Pronounced: The inhospitableness of Edom is met with divine judgment. The prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel all pronounce judgments against Edom for their actions. Isaiah 34:5-6 speaks of the Lord's sword descending in judgment upon Edom, "For My sword has drunk its fill in the heavens; behold, it descends in judgment upon Edom, the people I have devoted to destruction. The sword of the LORD is bathed in blood; it is covered with fat—the blood of lambs and goats, the fat of the kidneys of rams. For the LORD has a sacrifice in Bozrah, a great slaughter in the land of Edom."

Theological Implications

The inhospitableness of Edom serves as a cautionary tale within the biblical narrative. It underscores the importance of hospitality, compassion, and the recognition of shared humanity, especially among those with common ancestry. The actions of Edom are contrasted with the biblical ideal of welcoming the stranger and aiding those in need, as exemplified in the laws given to Israel and the teachings of Jesus Christ. The inhospitableness of Edom ultimately leads to its downfall, serving as a reminder of the consequences of failing to uphold these divine principles.