The Edomites, descendants of Esau, have a complex and often adversarial relationship with the Israelites, their kin through Jacob. Throughout biblical history, the Edomites frequently appear as antagonists to the people of Israel, and one notable instance of this enmity is their confederation with other nations against King Jehoshaphat of Judah.

Historical Context

During the reign of Jehoshaphat, the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, the Edomites joined forces with the Moabites and Ammonites in a coalition against Judah. This alliance is recorded in 2 Chronicles 20, where the combined forces sought to invade and conquer the land of Judah. The Edomites, along with their allies, posed a significant threat due to their strategic location and military capabilities.

Biblical Account

The narrative in 2 Chronicles 20:1-2 states: "After this, the Moabites and Ammonites, together with some of the Meunites, came to make war against Jehoshaphat. Then some men came and told Jehoshaphat, 'A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the sea; they are already in Hazazon-tamar' (that is, En Gedi)." This passage highlights the Edomites' involvement in the coalition and their intent to challenge the sovereignty of Judah.

Jehoshaphat, upon hearing of the impending invasion, sought the LORD's guidance and proclaimed a fast throughout Judah. The king's response was one of faith and reliance on divine intervention, as he led the nation in prayer and supplication. In 2 Chronicles 20:12 , Jehoshaphat prayed, "O our God, will You not judge them? For we are powerless before this vast army that comes against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You."

Divine Intervention

In response to Jehoshaphat's prayer, the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jahaziel, a Levite, who delivered a prophetic message of assurance. The LORD promised deliverance without the need for battle, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 20:15 : "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."

True to the divine promise, the LORD orchestrated confusion among the enemy forces. The coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and Edomites turned against each other, leading to their self-destruction. 2 Chronicles 20:22-23 describes the miraculous outcome: "At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come against Judah, and they were defeated. The Ammonites and Moabites rose up against the inhabitants of Mount Seir, devoting them to destruction. And when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, they helped to destroy one another."

Significance

The confederation of the Edomites with the enemies of Israel against Jehoshaphat underscores the persistent hostility between Edom and Israel. Despite their shared ancestry, the Edomites often aligned themselves with Israel's adversaries, seeking to exploit opportunities to weaken or overthrow the Israelites. This episode also highlights the power of faith and divine intervention, as Jehoshaphat's reliance on God led to a miraculous victory without the need for conventional warfare.

The Edomites' participation in this coalition serves as a reminder of the broader spiritual and geopolitical struggles faced by the people of God throughout biblical history. Their actions against Jehoshaphat illustrate the recurring theme of opposition to God's chosen people and the ultimate triumph of divine providence over human schemes.2 Chronicles 20:10
And now, behold, the children of Ammon and Moab and mount Seir, whom you would not let Israel invade, when they came out of the land of Egypt, but they turned from them, and destroyed them not;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 83:4-6
They have said, Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Who were the Edomites? | GotQuestions.org

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

Who/what is Edom (Obadiah 1:1, 8)? | GotQuestions.org

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