Topical Bible: The Edomites: Character of Vindictive

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Edomites, descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, are frequently depicted in the Bible as having a vindictive and hostile character, particularly towards the Israelites. This enmity is rooted in the familial discord between Esau and Jacob, which is recounted in Genesis. The Edomites' persistent antagonism towards Israel is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures.

Historical Background

The origin of the Edomites is traced back to Esau, who is described as a skillful hunter and a man of the field (Genesis 25:27). Esau's contentious relationship with his brother Jacob, who deceitfully acquired Esau's birthright and blessing, set the stage for the enduring hostility between their descendants. Genesis 27:41 states, "Esau held a grudge against Jacob because of the blessing his father had given him. And Esau determined in his heart: 'The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then I will kill my brother Jacob.'"

Edom's Hostility Towards Israel

The Edomites' vindictive nature is evident in their refusal to allow the Israelites passage through their land during the Exodus. Numbers 20:18-21 records this encounter: "But Edom answered, 'You may not pass through here; if you try, we will march out and attack 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 they came out to confront them with a large and powerful army. Since Edom refused to allow Israel to pass through their territory, Israel turned away from them."

Prophetic Denunciations

The prophets frequently denounced Edom for their vindictive actions and attitudes. Obadiah, in particular, delivers a scathing rebuke against Edom for their violence against their brother Jacob. 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 just 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."

Edom's Downfall

The vindictive nature of the Edomites ultimately led to their downfall. The prophet Ezekiel also speaks against Edom, highlighting their perpetual enmity and the resulting divine judgment. Ezekiel 25:12-14 states, "This is what the Lord GOD says: 'Because Edom acted vengefully against the house of Judah and incurred grievous guilt by taking revenge on them, therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: I will stretch out My hand against Edom and cut off its people and animals. I will lay it waste, and from Teman to Dedan they will fall by the sword. I will take My vengeance on Edom by the hand of My people Israel, and they will deal with Edom according to My anger and wrath. Then they will know My vengeance,' declares the Lord GOD."

Legacy of Enmity

The legacy of Edom's vindictiveness is a testament to the destructive power of harboring grudges and seeking revenge. The biblical narrative consistently portrays the Edomites as a people whose animosity towards Israel led to their own ruin. Their account serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of allowing bitterness and vengeance to dictate actions and relationships.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 25:12
Thus said the Lord GOD; Because that Edom has dealt against the house of Judah by taking vengeance, and has greatly offended, and revenged himself on them;
Torrey's Topical Textbook