The Moabites, descendants of Lot through his elder daughter, have a complex and often adversarial relationship with the Israelites as depicted in the Bible. Throughout the Scriptures, various prophecies highlight the Moabites' fear and terror concerning Israel, often as a result of divine judgment or Israel's military prowess.

Historical Context

The Moabites occupied a region east of the Dead Sea, in what is now modern-day Jordan. Their land was fertile and strategically located, making them both a neighbor and frequent adversary of Israel. The Moabites are first mentioned in Genesis 19:37, where Moab is born to Lot's elder daughter. The relationship between Israel and Moab is marked by conflict, alliances, and divine interventions.

Prophecies of Terror

1. Balaam's Prophecy: One of the earliest prophecies concerning Moab's fear of Israel is found in the account of Balaam. Balak, the king of Moab, hires Balaam to curse Israel because of his fear of their numbers and strength. Instead, Balaam blesses Israel, declaring, "God brought them out of Egypt; they have the strength of a wild ox. They devour hostile nations and break their bones in pieces; with their arrows they pierce them" (Numbers 24:8). This prophecy underscores Moab's terror at Israel's divine backing and military might.

2. Isaiah's Oracle Against Moab: The prophet Isaiah delivers a message of doom for Moab, highlighting their impending terror and destruction. Isaiah 15:1-2 states, "An oracle concerning Moab: Ar in Moab is ruined, destroyed in a night! Kir in Moab is ruined, destroyed in a night! Dibon goes up to its temple, to its high places to weep; Moab wails over Nebo and Medeba. Every head is shaved, every beard is cut off." This prophecy reflects the fear and despair that would grip Moab as divine judgment approaches.

3. Jeremiah's Prophecy: Jeremiah also prophesies against Moab, emphasizing their fear and downfall. In Jeremiah 48:41-42 , it is written, "Kerioth is taken, and the strongholds are seized. In that day the hearts of Moab’s warriors will be like the heart of a woman in labor. Moab will be destroyed as a nation because he vaunted himself against the LORD." The imagery of warriors' hearts melting in fear illustrates the terror that would overcome Moab due to their pride and opposition to God.

4. Ezekiel's Judgment: The prophet Ezekiel speaks of Moab's judgment alongside other nations. In Ezekiel 25:8-11 , the Lord declares, "Because Moab and Seir said, ‘Look, the house of Judah is like all the other nations,’ therefore I will expose the flank of Moab, beginning with its frontier cities—Beth-jeshimoth, Baal-meon, and Kiriathaim—the glory of the land. I will give Moab along with the Ammonites to the people of the East as a possession, so that the Ammonites will not be remembered among the nations." This prophecy indicates the terror and humiliation Moab would face as a result of their scorn for Israel.

Conclusion

The prophecies concerning the Moabites consistently highlight their fear and terror in the face of Israel's divine favor and military strength. These prophecies serve as a testament to the sovereignty of God over the nations and His protection of Israel, often resulting in the judgment and downfall of those who oppose His chosen people.Exodus 15:15
Then the dukes of Edom shall be amazed; the mighty men of Moab, trembling shall take hold on them; all the inhabitants of Canaan shall melt away.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

What is significance of Mount Seir? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Lot in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of high places in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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