Topical Encyclopedia The Edomites, descendants of Esau, play a significant role in the biblical narrative, often finding themselves in conflict with the Israelites. The relationship between these two nations is marked by hostility and violence, stemming from the familial discord between Esau and Jacob. This enmity is reflected in several biblical accounts of massacres involving the Edomites.Historical Context The Edomites settled in the region south of the Dead Sea, an area known as Edom. Their territory was strategically located along the King's Highway, a major trade route, which often brought them into conflict with neighboring nations, including Israel. The animosity between Israel and Edom is rooted in the Genesis account of Jacob and Esau, where Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a meal (Genesis 25:29-34) and later loses his father's blessing to Jacob through deception (Genesis 27). Biblical Accounts of Massacres 1. Saul's Campaign Against Edom: King Saul, the first king of Israel, engaged in military campaigns against various enemies, including the Edomites. While the Bible does not provide detailed accounts of these battles, it is noted that Saul fought against Edom as part of his efforts to secure Israel's borders (1 Samuel 14:47). 2. David's Conquest: King David, Saul's successor, achieved significant victories over the Edomites. The Bible records that David established garrisons in Edom, and the Edomites became subject to him. "He put garrisons in Edom, and all the Edomites became David’s servants. And the LORD gave victory to David wherever he went" (2 Samuel 8:14). This subjugation of Edom was marked by violence and bloodshed, as indicated in 1 Kings 11:15-16, where Joab, David's military commander, is said to have stayed in Edom for six months, killing every male in Edom. 3. Amaziah's Campaign: King Amaziah of Judah also waged war against the Edomites. The Bible recounts that Amaziah struck down ten thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt and captured the city of Sela, renaming it Joktheel (2 Kings 14:7). This victory was part of Amaziah's efforts to reassert control over Edom, which had rebelled against Judahite dominance. 4. Prophetic Denunciations: The prophets of Israel frequently denounced Edom for its violence and hostility towards Israel. Obadiah, in particular, prophesied against Edom, condemning them for their actions during the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem. "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever" (Obadiah 1:10). This prophetic judgment highlights the enduring enmity and the consequences of Edom's actions against Israel. Theological Implications The massacres involving the Edomites are often interpreted within the broader biblical theme of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. The conflicts between Israel and Edom serve as a backdrop for demonstrating God's sovereignty and His commitment to His covenant people. The repeated clashes and eventual subjugation of Edom are seen as manifestations of God's judgment against those who oppose His chosen nation. Throughout the biblical narrative, the Edomites symbolize the persistent opposition to God's purposes, and their eventual downfall is portrayed as a testament to the ultimate triumph of God's will. The accounts of massacres involving the Edomites underscore the seriousness of opposing God's people and the inevitable consequences of such actions. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 14:7He slew of Edom in the valley of salt ten thousand, and took Selah by war, and called the name of it Joktheel to this day. Nave's Topical Index Library The Kingdom Op Judah. Questions. The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Resources What is the Massacre of the Innocents? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus mention the tower of Siloam in Luke 13:4? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Galileans in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Massacre: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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