Jeremiah 49:17

"Edom will become an object of horror. All who pass by will be appalled and will scoff at all her wounds.

Study Bible

Edom
The name "Edom" refers to the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, and the nation they established. Historically, Edom was located south of the Dead Sea and was known for its rocky terrain and strategic trade routes. Theologically, Edom often symbolizes pride and opposition to God's people, as seen in their longstanding enmity with Israel. The Hebrew root for Edom is "אֱדוֹם" (Edom), which is related to "אָדוֹם" (adom), meaning "red," possibly referring to the red sandstone of the region or Esau's red complexion. This verse prophesies Edom's downfall, a theme consistent with the biblical narrative of divine justice against nations that oppose God's covenant people.

will become an object of horror
The phrase "will become an object of horror" indicates a transformation from a once-proud nation to one that is feared and pitied. The Hebrew word for "horror" is "שַׁמָּה" (shammah), which conveys desolation and astonishment. This transformation is a result of divine judgment, serving as a warning to other nations about the consequences of pride and hostility towards God. The imagery of horror underscores the severity of Edom's punishment and the totality of its desolation.

All who pass by
This phrase suggests that Edom's downfall will be so complete and visible that it will serve as a public spectacle. The travelers or passersby represent the broader world witnessing God's judgment. In ancient times, trade routes would have brought many travelers through Edom, making its desolation widely known. This public nature of judgment serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and justice, reminding all who witness it of the consequences of defying Him.

will be appalled
The word "appalled" comes from the Hebrew "שָׁמַם" (shamam), meaning to be desolate or astonished. This reaction of shock and dismay highlights the unexpected and severe nature of Edom's judgment. The appalling sight serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine retribution. It calls believers to reflect on their own lives and the importance of aligning with God's will.

and will scoff at all her wounds
The phrase "will scoff at all her wounds" indicates a reaction of derision and mockery towards Edom's suffering. The Hebrew word for "scoff" is "לָעַג" (laag), which means to mock or scorn. This reflects the complete reversal of Edom's fortunes, from a nation of pride to one of ridicule. The "wounds" symbolize the physical and spiritual devastation inflicted upon Edom as a result of their actions. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of pride and rebellion against God, encouraging believers to seek humility and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. Historically, Edom was often in conflict with Israel and is frequently mentioned in the prophetic books as an example of God's judgment against pride and hostility towards His people.

2. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of judgment and hope. He prophesied during the final years of the kingdom of Judah, warning of impending destruction due to the people's unfaithfulness.

3. Judgment of Nations
This event refers to God's pronouncement of judgment against various nations, including Edom, for their sins and opposition to Israel. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Pride
Edom's downfall serves as a warning against pride and arrogance. Pride can lead to a nation's or individual's downfall, as it blinds us to our need for God.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
The judgment against Edom demonstrates God's control over all nations and His commitment to justice. No nation or person is beyond His reach.

The Importance of Humility
In contrast to Edom's pride, believers are called to live humbly before God, recognizing our dependence on Him for everything.

The Role of Prophecy
Prophecies like those against Edom remind us of the importance of listening to God's warnings and aligning our lives with His will.

The Impact of Sin on Communities
Edom's judgment shows how sin can affect entire communities and nations, leading to widespread devastation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the judgment of Edom in Jeremiah 49:17 reflect God's attitude towards pride and arrogance? Can you identify areas in your life where pride might be an issue?

2. In what ways does the prophecy against Edom demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations? How can this understanding impact your view of current world events?

3. Compare the judgment of Edom in Jeremiah 49:17 with the prophecy in Obadiah. What similarities and differences do you notice, and what do they teach us about God's justice?

4. How can the downfall of Edom serve as a warning for us today in our personal lives and communities? What steps can we take to avoid similar pitfalls?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of pride or witnessed it in others. How did that situation change your perspective on humility and dependence on God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Obadiah 1
The entire book of Obadiah is a prophecy against Edom, highlighting similar themes of judgment due to pride and violence against Israel.

Isaiah 34
This chapter also speaks of God's judgment against Edom, using vivid imagery to describe its desolation and the consequences of its actions.

Psalm 137
Reflects the animosity between Edom and Israel, where Edom is remembered for its role in the destruction of Jerusalem.