Topical Encyclopedia
The Edomites, descendants of Esau, have a long and complex history with the Israelites, marked by frequent conflicts and hostilities. One significant event in this tumultuous relationship is the slaughter of the Edomites by Joab and Abishai, as recorded in the Old Testament.
The background of this event is rooted in the reign of King David, a period characterized by the expansion of Israel's territory and consolidation of power. The Edomites, residing in the region south of the Dead Sea, were a persistent adversary to Israel. The conflict with Edom is notably mentioned in
2 Samuel 8:13-14 and
1 Chronicles 18:12-13, where David's military campaigns are described.
The specific incident of the slaughter is detailed in
1 Kings 11:15-16 : "Earlier, when David was fighting against Edom, Joab the commander of the army had gone up to bury the dead, and he had struck down every male in Edom. For six months Joab and all Israel stayed there until they had killed every male in Edom."
This passage highlights the severity of the campaign led by Joab, David's military commander, and his brother Abishai. The campaign was not merely a battle but a systematic effort to subdue Edom by eliminating its male population, thereby crippling its ability to retaliate or pose a future threat to Israel.
The motivation behind such a drastic measure can be understood in the context of ancient Near Eastern warfare, where complete subjugation of an enemy was often sought to ensure long-term security and dominance. Additionally, the Edomites' persistent enmity and previous hostilities against Israel likely contributed to the decision to carry out such a comprehensive campaign.
The aftermath of this slaughter had significant implications for the region. With the male population decimated, Edom was left vulnerable and was subsequently subjected to Israelite control. This event also fulfilled earlier prophecies and divine judgments against Edom, as seen in the broader biblical narrative.
The actions of Joab and Abishai, while harsh by modern standards, reflect the realities of ancient warfare and the necessity of securing peace and stability for the nascent Israelite kingdom under David's rule. The biblical account underscores the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and His use of Israel as an instrument of judgment against those who opposed His chosen people.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Kings 11:16(For six months did Joab remain there with all Israel, until he had cut off every male in Edom:)
Torrey's Topical Textbook1 Chronicles 18:12
Moreover Abishai the son of Zeruiah slew of the Edomites in the valley of salt eighteen thousand.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Edomites, Arabs, and Midianites were associated with this semi-Canaanite stock"for ...
the Philistines, and there hath been also a great slaughter among the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm
Resources
Why did God love Jacob and hate Esau (Malachi 1:3; Romans 9:13)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God judge Edom so harshly in the book of Obadiah? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of Obadiah - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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