The Edomites, descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, are a significant people group in the biblical narrative. Their territory, known as Edom, was located to the southeast of Israel, in the region that is now part of modern-day Jordan. The Edomites are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, and their interactions with the Israelites are marked by both conflict and cooperation.

Geographical and Economic Context

Edom's geographical location was strategic for trade and commerce. The region was situated along the King's Highway, a major trade route that connected Africa with the Mesopotamian and Mediterranean regions. This advantageous position allowed the Edomites to engage in extensive commerce, facilitating the exchange of goods such as spices, textiles, and precious metals.

Biblical References to Edomite Commerce

The Bible provides several references to the commercial activities of the Edomites. In Ezekiel 27:16, the prophet lists Edom among the trading partners of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade. The verse states, "Edom was your merchant in precious stones and purple cloth." This indicates that the Edomites were involved in the trade of luxury items, which were highly valued in the ancient world.

Furthermore, the Edomites' control over the copper mines in the region of Timna contributed to their economic prosperity. The extraction and trade of copper, a crucial resource for tools and weapons, would have been a significant aspect of their commercial activities.

Relations with Israel

The relationship between the Edomites and the Israelites was complex, characterized by both hostility and cooperation. In Numbers 20:14-21, the Israelites, during their wilderness journey, requested passage through Edom but were denied, leading to tensions between the two nations. Despite this, there were periods of peaceful interaction and trade.

King David's conquest of Edom, as recorded in 2 Samuel 8:13-14, brought the region under Israelite control, further integrating Edom into the economic sphere of Israel. This subjugation allowed for increased trade and the flow of goods between the two territories.

Prophetic Writings and Edomite Commerce

The prophetic books of the Old Testament often mention Edom in the context of judgment and future restoration. Obadiah, in particular, prophesies against Edom for its pride and mistreatment of Israel. However, the commercial prowess of Edom is implicitly acknowledged in these writings, as their wealth and trade are seen as contributing factors to their arrogance and eventual downfall.

Cultural and Religious Influence

The Edomites, while distinct in their cultural and religious practices, were influenced by their commercial interactions with surrounding nations. The exchange of goods often led to the exchange of ideas and religious beliefs, contributing to the cultural milieu of the region. This interaction is evident in the archaeological findings of Edomite pottery and inscriptions, which show a blend of local and foreign influences.

In summary, the Edomites played a significant role in the ancient Near Eastern economy through their extensive commerce. Their strategic location and control over valuable resources facilitated trade with neighboring nations, including Israel. The biblical narrative provides insight into their economic activities and the complex relationship they maintained with the Israelites.Ezekiel 27:20
Dedan was your merchant in precious clothes for chariots.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... petty neighbours: bloody struggles, with alternating successes and reverses, were
carried on for ... it was the key to the route by which the commerce of Babylon ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... in that case would have been Edomites and Midianites ... her trade with foreign countries
was carried on through ... of the Nile, and of this commerce the Phoenicians ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... need of rest for the Assyrian nation, he could not have arrived at a wiser decision,
provided always that circumstances allowed of its being carried into effect ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... One-half of the men carried sword and lance, the other half sword and bow,
the latter of a smaller kind than that used by the infantry. ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... Civilisation of the Hebrew kingdoms, their commerce, industries, private ... of the Babilu;
there he carried by storm ... on his side, had routed the Edomites in the ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

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