Topical Encyclopedia The Edomites, descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, hold a significant place in biblical history, often characterized by their malice and hostility towards the Israelites. The enmity between the Edomites and the Israelites is rooted in the familial discord between Esau and Jacob, as recorded in Genesis. This animosity persisted through the generations, manifesting in various conflicts and hostilities.Historical Context The Edomites settled in the region of Mount Seir, south of the Dead Sea, and established a kingdom there. Their territory was strategically located along the trade routes, which contributed to their wealth and influence. Despite their proximity and shared ancestry with the Israelites, the Edomites frequently opposed them. Biblical Accounts of Malice 1. Refusal of Passage: One of the earliest recorded acts of Edomite malice is found in Numbers 20:14-21. When the Israelites, led by Moses, sought passage through Edom on their journey to the Promised Land, the Edomites refused and threatened them with military force. "But Edom answered: 'You may not pass through here; if you try, we will march out and confront you with the sword.'" (Numbers 20:18). 2. Hostility During the Monarchy: The Edomites continued their antagonism during the period of the Israelite monarchy. King Saul fought against them (1 Samuel 14:47), and King David eventually subdued them, placing garrisons in Edom (2 Samuel 8:13-14). However, the Edomites regained independence during the reign of King Jehoram of Judah, as recorded in 2 Kings 8:20-22. 3. Participation in the Destruction of Jerusalem: The Edomites' malice reached a peak during the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem. The prophet Obadiah condemns Edom for their participation and gloating over the destruction of Jerusalem. "On the day you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were just like one of them." (Obadiah 1:11). Prophetic Condemnation The prophets frequently denounced Edom for their persistent hostility and malice. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Obadiah all prophesied against Edom, foretelling their eventual downfall due to their pride and violence against their brother nation, Israel. For instance, Obadiah declares, "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever." (Obadiah 1:10). Theological Implications The malice of the Edomites serves as a cautionary tale within the biblical narrative, illustrating the destructive power of longstanding enmity and pride. Their account underscores the biblical theme of divine justice and the consequences of opposing God's chosen people. The Edomites' fate is a testament to the fulfillment of prophetic warnings and the sovereignty of God over the nations. Legacy The Edomites eventually disappeared from the historical record, with their territory being absorbed by other groups, including the Nabateans. By the time of the New Testament, the region of Edom, known as Idumea, was under Roman control, and the Edomites had largely assimilated into other cultures. Their legacy, however, remains a poignant reminder of the biblical themes of brotherhood, conflict, and divine retribution. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 35:5Because you have had a perpetual hatred, and have shed the blood of the children of Israel by the force of the sword in the time of their calamity, in the time that their iniquity had an end: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs. Demonstration xxi. --Of Persecution. The Book of Jubilees The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What does the Bible say about bitterness? | GotQuestions.orgWhen is it necessary to rebuke another believer? | GotQuestions.org How can I know if the desires of my heart are from God? | GotQuestions.org Malice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Malfeasance in office: The Leasees of the Vineyard, in One of the Parables of Jesus Malfeasance in office: The Steward Mentioned in One of the Parables of Jesus Malice: A Hindrance to Growth in Grace Malice: Ahithophel Toward David Malice: Ammonites Toward the Israelites Malice: Brings Its own Punishment Malice: Christian Liberty not to be a Cloak For Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Malice: Herod Antipas Toward Jesus Malice: Incompatible With the Worship of God Malice: James and John Toward the Samaritans Malice: Joseph's Brothers Toward Joseph Malice: Masters of the Sorcerous Damsel Toward Paul Malice: Nebuchadrezzar Toward Zedekiah Malice: Philistines Toward Isaac Malice: Potiphar's Wife Toward Joseph Malice: Pray for Those Who Injure You Through Malice: Samaritans Toward the Jews Malice: Springs from an Evil Heart Malice: The Jewish Leaders Toward Jesus Malice: The Wicked: Filled With Malice: The Wicked: Speak With Malice: The Wicked: Visit Saints With Related Terms Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) |
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