Edom was a nation descended from Esau, the twin brother of Jacob (Genesis 36:1). Like Moab, Edom had a complex and often hostile relationship with Israel, their close relatives. The territory of Edom lay south of the Dead Sea, and its capital was Bozrah, later Petra.
From the beginning, Edom opposed Israel. When Israel sought to pass through Edomite territory during the wilderness journey, Edom refused and came out against them with force (Numbers 20:14–21). For this, God forbade Israel from engaging Edom in battle at that time, but He also declared that Edom would not go unpunished in the long term (Deuteronomy 2:4–5).
The prophets issued strong condemnations against Edom for their violence against Judah. Obadiah 1:10 says:
“For violence against your brother Jacob, shame shall cover you, and you shall be cut off forever.”
Edom rejoiced when Jerusalem fell to Babylon and even took part in the destruction. Because of this betrayal, multiple prophets declared judgment. Isaiah 34:5–6 and Jeremiah 49:7–22 speak of Edom’s ruin, and Ezekiel 35 addresses the perpetual enmity of Mount Seir (Edom) toward Israel.
Edom’s pride is especially condemned. Obadiah 1:3 states:
“The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who dwell in the clefts of the rock…”
Despite their strength and high position in the mountains, God promised their complete desolation.
Interestingly, Edom also has a prophetic role. Some scholars connect Edom with end-times judgments, symbolizing nations opposed to God’s people. Isaiah 63:1–4 speaks of the Lord coming from Edom, stained with blood, executing vengeance.
Edom represents the dangers of pride, bitterness, and hatred toward God’s chosen people. Though closely related to Israel, Edom consistently chose opposition, and their legacy in Scripture is one of judgment due to persistent rebellion and violence.
