The Edomites, descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, have a significant presence in biblical history, particularly in relation to their interactions with the Israelites. The Bible contains several prophecies concerning the Edomites, especially regarding the divine punishment they would face for their hostility and persecution of Israel.

Historical Context

The Edomites settled in the region south of the Dead Sea, an area known as Edom. Throughout biblical history, they maintained a tumultuous relationship with the Israelites. Despite their shared ancestry, the Edomites often opposed Israel, refusing passage during the Exodus (Numbers 20:14-21) and later participating in hostilities against them.

Prophecies of Punishment

The prophets of the Old Testament frequently spoke of the impending judgment upon Edom due to their actions against Israel. These prophecies highlight the divine retribution that would befall Edom for their persistent enmity.

1. Obadiah's Prophecy: The book of Obadiah is dedicated entirely to the judgment against Edom. Obadiah 1:10-12 states, "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame and cut off 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 like one of them." This passage underscores the Edomites' betrayal during Jerusalem's downfall, leading to their own destruction.

2. Isaiah's Pronouncement: Isaiah also prophesied against Edom, emphasizing the complete desolation that would come upon them. Isaiah 34:5-6 declares, "For My sword has drunk its fill in the heavens; behold, it will descend in judgment upon Edom, upon the people I have devoted to destruction. The sword of the LORD is bathed in blood; it is covered with fat, with the blood of lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams. For the LORD has a sacrifice in Bozrah, a great slaughter in the land of Edom."

3. Jeremiah's Warning: Jeremiah 49:17-18 further predicts Edom's downfall: "Edom will become an object of horror. All who pass by will be appalled and will scoff at all her wounds. As Sodom and Gomorrah were overthrown along with their neighbors," says the LORD, "so no one will live there; no man will dwell there."

4. Ezekiel's Condemnation: Ezekiel 25:12-14 also speaks of Edom's punishment: "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 men 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 through 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."

Fulfillment and Historical Outcome

The prophecies concerning Edom's punishment were fulfilled as the nation faced decline and eventual obliteration. By the time of the New Testament, Edom, known as Idumea, had lost its distinct identity, absorbed into the surrounding cultures and peoples. The biblical predictions serve as a testament to the consequences of opposing God's chosen people, Israel, and highlight the divine justice meted out against those who persecute them.Isaiah 34:5-8
For my sword shall be bathed in heaven: behold, it shall come down on Idumea, and on the people of my curse, to judgment.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 63:1-4
Who is this that comes from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, traveling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Lamentations 4:21
Rejoice and be glad, O daughter of Edom, that dwell in the land of Uz; the cup also shall pass through to you: you shall be drunken, and shall make yourself naked.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 25:13,14
Therefore thus said the Lord GOD; I will also stretch out my hand on Edom, and will cut off man and beast from it; and I will make it desolate from Teman; and they of Dedan shall fall by the sword.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Amos 1:11,12
Thus said the LORD; For three transgressions of Edom, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because he did pursue his brother with the sword, and did cast off all pity, and his anger did tear perpetually, and he kept his wrath for ever:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Obadiah 1:10,15
For your violence against your brother Jacob shame shall cover you, and you shall be cut off for ever.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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

When were Obadiah's prophecies against Edom fulfilled (Obadiah 1:18-20)? | GotQuestions.org

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