◄ Ezekiel 35 ►
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A Prophecy against Mount Seir 1Moreover, the word of the LORD came to me, saying, 2“Son of man, set your face against Mount Seir and prophesy against it, 3and declare that this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I am against you, O Mount Seir. I will stretch out My hand against you and make you a desolate waste. 4I will turn your cities into ruins, and you will become a desolation. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 5Because you harbored an ancient hatred and delivered the Israelites over to the sword in the time of their disaster at the final stage of their punishment, 6therefore as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, I will give you over to bloodshed and it will pursue you. Since you did not hate bloodshed, it will pursue you. 7I will make Mount Seir a desolate waste and will cut off from it those who come and go. 8I will fill its mountains with the slain; those killed by the sword will fall on your hills, in your valleys, and in all your ravines. 9I will make you a perpetual desolation, and your cities will not be inhabited. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 10Because you have said, ‘These two nations and countries will be ours, and we will possess them,’ even though the LORD was there, 11therefore as surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, I will treat you according to the anger and jealousy you showed in your hatred against them, and I will make Myself known among them when I judge you. 12Then you will know that I, the LORD, have heard every contemptuous word you uttered against the mountains of Israel when you said, ‘They are desolate; they are given to us to devour!’ 13You boasted against Me with your mouth and multiplied your words against Me. I heard it Myself! 14This is what the Lord GOD says: While the whole earth rejoices, I will make you desolate. 15As you rejoiced when the inheritance of the house of Israel became desolate, so will I do to you. You will become a desolation, O Mount Seir, and so will all of Edom. Then they will know that I am the LORD. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 35 Summary A Prophecy against Mount Seir Verses 1–4) The Call to Prophesy against Mount Seir Ezekiel is told to face Mount Seir—Edom’s mountainous heartland—and announce God’s verdict: “I will stretch out My hand against you and make you a desolate waste” (v 3). Ruined cities and unmistakable desolation will force Edom to recognize the LORD’s identity. Verses 5–9) Judgment for Ancient Hatred Because Edom “harbored an ancient hatred and delivered the Israelites over to the sword” (v 5), bloodshed will now chase her. Corpses will cover hills, valleys, and ravines; her desolation will be “perpetual” (v 9). The same sword Edom loved will return upon her. Verses 10–13) Boasting against God and Israel Exposed Edom coveted the lands of both Judah and Israel, declaring, “These two nations…will be ours” (v 10). God hears every word: “You boasted against Me with your mouth and multiplied your words against Me. I heard it Myself!” (v 13). Their arrogant claims are, in fact, challenges to the LORD. Verses 14–15) Rejoicing Turned to Ruin When the rest of the world rejoices, Mount Seir will lie in ruins. Just as Edom celebrated Israel’s fall, so God will repay in kind: “You will become desolation, O Mount Seir, you and all of Edom” (v 15). The result, repeated four times, is that they will know He is the LORD. Ezekiel 35 is a powerful and intense chapter in the biblical book of Ezekiel. Through prophetic oracle, the Prophet Ezekiel announces God's judgment on Mount Seir, home of the Edomites, who had harbored age-old enmity against Israel. The chapter explores themes of divine justice and retribution, emphasizing God's wrath on those who harm his chosen people. Historical Background: Edom’s Long Feud with Israel • Family Roots: Edom descended from Esau, Jacob’s twin (Genesis 36). Sibling rivalry became national hostility. • Wilderness Refusal: Edom blocked Israel’s passage to Canaan (Numbers 20:14-21). • Fall of Jerusalem: Edom cheered Babylon’s attack in 586 BC (Obadiah 10-14; Psalm 137:7). • Prophetic Pattern: Isaiah 34, Jeremiah 49:7-22, and Malachi 1:2-4 echo Ezekiel’s charge—Edom’s violence and gloating guarantee divine judgment. Geography and Archaeology: Mount Seir, Petra, and the Highlands Mount Seir stretches from the Dead Sea’s southeast rim to the Gulf of Aqaba in modern Jordan. Rugged sandstone ridges hide passes and caves—ideal for guerilla raids on Judah’s south. The rock-carved city later known as Petra, though after Ezekiel’s day, illustrates Edom’s pride in seemingly impregnable heights (“who can bring me down?” — Obadiah 3). Surveys of the region reveal abandoned settlements, Nabatean layers built over earlier Edomite sites, and widespread evidence of sudden decline around the 6th–5th centuries BC, consistent with these prophecies. Key Themes 1. Ancient Hostility Meets Timely Justice “Because you did not hate bloodshed, bloodshed will pursue you” (v 6). Violence boomerangs. 2. God Hears Gloating Words Every taunt against Israel is counted as a slight against God (vv 12-13). Cf. Zechariah 2:8, “He who touches you touches the apple of His eye.” 3. Repetition of “Then you will know that I am the LORD” Sixteen times in Ezekiel 35–39, God highlights His self-revelation through judgment and restoration. Connections to Other Scriptures • Genesis 12:3—Those who curse Abraham’s offspring are themselves cursed. • Proverbs 24:17-18—Gloating over an enemy’s stumble displeases the LORD. • Romans 12:19—“Vengeance is Mine; I will repay,” quoting Deuteronomy 32:35; Ezekiel 35 embodies that promise. • Obadiah—A whole book echoing the same themes; verses 15-18 parallel Ezekiel 35 word-for-word ideas. • Ezekiel 36—Immediately following, God promises Israel’s restoration, underscoring the contrast with Edom’s ruin. Language and Imagery • “Ancient hatred” (v 5) translates a term meaning perpetual or eternal—hostility so entrenched it spans generations. • “Bloodshed will pursue you” (v 6) pictures blood as a relentless hunter—a poetic reversal of Edom’s own pursuits. • “Perpetual desolation” (v 9) is a double emphasis in Hebrew, forecasting not a brief setback but an enduring waste. Practical Takeaways for Today’s Reader • Harboring grudges—even “ancient” ones—corrodes the soul and invites consequences. • National or personal pride that mocks another’s hardship is seen—and judged—by God. • God’s timing may seem delayed, yet His justice is certain; believers can rest in that assurance rather than retaliate. • Knowing the LORD is the ultimate goal of both judgment and mercy; every event pushes people toward that recognition. Timeline Snapshot c. 1440 BC — Edom refuses passage (Numbers 20) c. 586 BC — Babylon destroys Jerusalem; Edom gloats c. 585 BC — Approximate date for Ezekiel 35 prophecy c. 553 BC — Nabonidus of Babylon campaigns in Edom; region declines 4th century BC — Nabateans take over, displacing remaining Edomites Contrast with Israel’s Future (Ezekiel 36) Edom: perpetual desolation Israel: mountains bloom again, people return, cities rebuilt The pairing highlights God’s faithfulness to His covenant people and His justice against persistent enemies. In a Nutshell Ezekiel 35 shows that no grudge, however old, escapes God’s notice; no proud boast goes unheard. Edom’s fate warns every heart and nation: the God who keeps score also keeps His promises—to punish hatred and to vindicate His own. Connections to Additional Scriptures Obadiah 1:10-14 This passage also addresses Edom's violence against Israel and serves as a parallel to Ezekiel 35, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution for hostility. Romans 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.' This New Testament verse echoes the principle of trusting God's justice. Matthew 5:44 Jesus teaches, But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, offering a counter to the destructive path of hatred. Teaching Points Divine Judgment on Edom Ezekiel 35:3-4 states, Behold, I am against you, O Mount Seir, and I will stretch out My hand against you and make you a desolate waste. God declares His opposition to Edom due to their hostility towards Israel, emphasizing His role as a just judge. Perpetual Hatred and Its Consequences In Ezekiel 35:5, God condemns Edom for their ancient hostility and for shedding the blood of the Israelites. This highlights the destructive nature of long-held grudges and the inevitable consequences they bring. God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness Despite Edom's actions, God reaffirms His commitment to His people. Ezekiel 35:10-11 shows that God will act to uphold His name and protect His covenant with Israel, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness. The Certainty of God's Word The repeated phrase then you will know that I am the LORD (Ezekiel 35:4, 9, 12, 15) underscores the certainty and authority of God's declarations. His words are not empty threats but assured outcomes. Practical Applications Guard Against Hatred Reflect on any lingering animosities in your heart. Seek reconciliation and forgiveness, understanding that unchecked hatred can lead to spiritual desolation. Trust in God's Justice In times of injustice, remember that God is a righteous judge. Trust in His timing and His ability to right wrongs, rather than taking matters into your own hands. Acknowledge God's Sovereignty Recognize God's control over nations and history. In a world of uncertainty, find peace in His unchanging nature and His promises to His people. Live with Integrity Let the certainty of God's word inspire you to live a life that honors Him. Align your actions with His teachings, knowing that He sees and knows all. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The chapter begins with the word of the LORD coming to Ezekiel. The LORD is the speaker of the prophecy, declaring judgment against Mount Seir. In the Hebrew text, the name used is "YHWH," which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. The LORD is depicted as the sovereign God who judges nations. 2. Ezekiel Although not directly named in this chapter, Ezekiel is the prophet through whom the LORD delivers the message. He is the son of Buzi and a priest, called by God to be a prophet to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. 3. Mount Seir While not a person, Mount Seir is personified in the prophecy. It represents the Edomites, the descendants of Esau, who are the target of God's judgment. The Edomites are accused of perpetual enmity against the Israelites. 4. The Edomites The descendants of Esau, brother of Jacob (Israel). They are the inhabitants of Mount Seir and are condemned for their longstanding hostility towards the Israelites. The Edomites are not named individually but are collectively addressed through the prophecy against Mount Seir. The chapter does not mention any other specific individuals or groups by name. The focus is on the judgment against the Edomites and the reasons for this divine retribution. Places 1. Mount Seir Mount Seir is the central focus of Ezekiel 35. It is a mountainous region historically associated with the descendants of Esau, also known as the Edomites. The prophecy in this chapter is directed against Mount Seir, symbolizing the judgment against Edom for its perpetual enmity against Israel. The Hebrew root for Seir (שֵׂעִיר) can mean "hairy" or "shaggy," which is fitting for a mountainous and rugged terrain. Events 1. Prophecy Against Mount Seir The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel, instructing him to set his face against Mount Seir and prophesy against it. This is a declaration of judgment against the region, which is associated with Edom. The Hebrew root for "set your face" (שִׂים פָּנֶיךָ, sim panecha) implies a determined and resolute stance. 2. Declaration of Desolation God declares that He is against Mount Seir and will stretch out His hand against it, making it a desolate waste. The use of "desolate" (שְׁמָמָה, shemamah) emphasizes complete devastation and ruin. 3. Judgment for Perpetual Enmity The LORD accuses Mount Seir of harboring perpetual enmity and shedding the blood of the Israelites. This enmity is rooted in the historical hostility between Edom and Israel, as Edom descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. 4. Bloodshed and Retribution Because Mount Seir pursued bloodshed, God promises that blood will pursue them. This is a principle of divine retribution, where the punishment mirrors the crime. 5. Desolation of Cities The cities of Mount Seir will be laid waste, and the land will become desolate. This serves as a sign of God's judgment and a demonstration of His sovereignty. 6. Recognition of the LORD The desolation will lead to the recognition that He is the LORD. This acknowledgment of God's authority and power is a recurring theme in Ezekiel. 7. Judgment for Rejoicing Over Israel's Misfortune Mount Seir is judged for rejoicing over the misfortune of the house of Israel. This schadenfreude, or taking pleasure in another's suffering, is condemned by God. 8. Perpetual Desolation God declares that Mount Seir will be a perpetual desolation, and its inhabitants will know that He is the LORD. The term "perpetual" (עוֹלָם, olam) indicates an enduring state of ruin. 9. Vindication of God's Name Through the judgment of Mount Seir, God's name will be vindicated. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's concern for His holy name and reputation among the nations. Lessons from Ezekiel 35 1. The Sovereignty of God Ezekiel 35 reminds us of the ultimate sovereignty of God over all nations and peoples. The chapter opens with a prophecy against Mount Seir, symbolizing God's authority to judge and direct the course of history. As it is written, "Thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I am against you, Mount Seir, and I will stretch out My hand against you" (Ezekiel 35:3). This serves as a powerful reminder that no matter the circumstances, God is in control, and His plans will prevail. 2. The Consequences of Hatred The chapter highlights the destructive nature of harboring hatred. Mount Seir is judged for its perpetual enmity against Israel. "Because you harbored an ancient hatred and delivered the Israelites over to the sword at the time of their calamity" (Ezekiel 35:5). This teaches us that holding onto grudges and animosity can lead to our downfall. Instead, we are called to love and forgive, reflecting the grace we have received through Christ. 3. The Certainty of Divine Justice Ezekiel 35 assures us that God's justice is certain and will be executed in His perfect timing. The prophecy against Mount Seir is a testament to the fact that God will not overlook wrongdoing. "I will make you a desolation and a waste, and your cities will not be inhabited" (Ezekiel 35:9). This encourages us to trust in God's righteous judgment and to live in a way that honors Him. 4. The Importance of Humility Pride and arrogance are themes addressed in this chapter. Mount Seir's downfall is partly due to its prideful attitude. "Because you have said, ‘These two nations and countries will be ours, and we will possess them,’ although the LORD was there" (Ezekiel 35:10). This serves as a reminder to remain humble, recognizing that all we have is by God's grace and for His glory. 5. The Power of God's Word The prophecy in Ezekiel 35 demonstrates the power and authority of God's Word. When God speaks, His words are fulfilled. "Then you will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 35:12). This encourages us to immerse ourselves in Scripture, trusting that God's promises are true and His Word is a firm foundation for our lives. 6. The Call to Repentance While the chapter focuses on judgment, it also implicitly calls for repentance. The judgment against Mount Seir serves as a warning to turn from sin and seek God's mercy. "I will make you a perpetual desolation, and your cities will not be inhabited" (Ezekiel 35:9). This is a call to examine our hearts and align our lives with God's will. 7. The Assurance of God's Presence Despite the judgment pronounced, there is an underlying assurance of God's presence with His people. "Although the LORD was there" (Ezekiel 35:10) reminds us that God is always with us, even in times of trial. This provides comfort and strength, knowing that we are never alone. 8. The Role of Prophecy Ezekiel 35 highlights the role of prophecy in revealing God's plans and purposes. Prophecy serves as both a warning and a source of hope. "Then you will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 35:15). This encourages us to pay attention to God's prophetic Word, understanding that it is meant to guide and prepare us for what is to come. 9. The Promise of Restoration While the chapter focuses on judgment, it also points to the promise of restoration for God's people. The judgment of Mount Seir is contrasted with the future hope for Israel. This reminds us that God's ultimate plan is one of redemption and restoration, offering hope and a future through Christ. 10. The Call to Trust in God's Plan Finally, Ezekiel 35 calls us to trust in God's plan, even when we don't fully understand it. The chapter shows that God's ways are higher than ours, and His purposes are beyond our comprehension. "Then they will know that I am the LORD" (Ezekiel 35:15). This encourages us to walk by faith, trusting that God is working all things together for good for those who love Him. Topics 1. Prophecy Against Mount Seir Ezekiel 35 begins with a prophecy directed against Mount Seir, which represents the nation of Edom. The Lord commands Ezekiel to set his face against Mount Seir and prophesy against it. This reflects God's judgment on Edom for its perpetual enmity against Israel. The Hebrew root for "Seir" (שֵׂעִיר) can mean "hairy" or "shaggy," often associated with the rugged terrain of Edom. 2. Divine Judgment for Hostility The chapter details the reasons for God's judgment, emphasizing Edom's longstanding hostility and violence against the people of Israel. The text highlights Edom's actions during Israel's calamity, showing a lack of brotherly compassion. The Hebrew word for "hostility" (אֵיבָה, 'ebah) underscores the deep-seated enmity Edom harbored. 3. Desolation and Bloodshed God declares that Mount Seir will become a desolate waste, and its cities will be laid to ruin. The prophecy includes a vivid depiction of bloodshed, as Edom is judged for its bloodthirsty actions. The Hebrew term for "desolation" (שְׁמָמָה, shemamah) conveys utter devastation and ruin. 4. Retribution for Rejoicing Over Israel's Misfortune The text accuses Edom of rejoicing over Israel's misfortune and taking advantage of their distress. This schadenfreude is met with divine retribution, as God promises to treat Edom with the same measure of judgment. The Hebrew root for "rejoice" (שָׂמַח, samach) indicates a malicious joy at another's downfall. 5. Recognition of the Sovereign Lord The chapter concludes with the assertion that through these judgments, Edom will know that the Lord is God. This recognition of divine sovereignty is a recurring theme in Ezekiel, emphasizing that God's actions serve to reveal His power and authority. The Hebrew name for God used here, יְהוָה (YHWH), is often translated as "the LORD," signifying His covenantal relationship with Israel. Themes 1. Judgment Against Mount Seir The chapter opens with a prophecy against Mount Seir, representing Edom. God declares His judgment due to their perpetual enmity against Israel. The Hebrew root for "enmity" (אֵיבָה, 'ebah) emphasizes a deep-seated hostility. ^“Son of man, set your face against Mount Seir and prophesy against it.”^ (Ezekiel 35:2) 2. Divine Retribution God promises to make Mount Seir desolate as a consequence of their actions. This theme highlights the principle of divine retribution, where actions against God's people lead to severe consequences. ^“I will make you a desolate waste, and your cities will not be inhabited. Then you will know that I am the LORD.”^ (Ezekiel 35:4) 3. Perpetual Hatred and Bloodshed The Edomites are condemned for their perpetual hatred and bloodshed against the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "bloodshed" (דָּם, dam) underscores the violence and guilt associated with their actions. ^“Because you harbored an ancient hatred and delivered the Israelites over to the sword at the time of their calamity, at the final stage of their punishment.”^ (Ezekiel 35:5) 4. Vindication of God's Holiness The judgment serves to vindicate God's holiness and justice. The theme underscores that God's actions are ultimately aimed at revealing His character and righteousness. ^“Then you will know that I am the LORD.”^ (Ezekiel 35:9) 5. Consequences of Arrogance The Edomites' arrogance and presumption in claiming the lands of Israel and Judah are condemned. This theme highlights the consequences of pride and overstepping divine boundaries. ^“Because you have said, ‘These two nations and countries will be ours, and we will possess them,’ even though the LORD was there.”^ (Ezekiel 35:10) 6. Divine Justice and Vengeance God declares that He will deal with Edom according to their anger and envy. This theme emphasizes God's role as the ultimate judge who enacts justice and vengeance. ^“As you rejoiced when the inheritance of the house of Israel became desolate, so will I deal with you. You will become a desolation, O Mount Seir, and so will all of Edom.”^ (Ezekiel 35:15) Prayer Points Pray for a heart free from bitterness and hatred, asking God to help you forgive and love others as He commands. Seek God's justice in situations of personal or global injustice, trusting in His perfect timing and righteousness. Ask for a deeper understanding of God's sovereignty and faithfulness, that you may find peace and assurance in His promises. Pray for the strength to live with integrity, aligning your life with the truth of God's word and His will for you. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ezekiel 35:3–4, can archaeological evidence confirm the eternal desolation of Mount Seir as prophesied? 2. If Ezekiel 35:5 describes Edom’s “perpetual hatred,” does historical record support such an unbroken hostility? 3. How can we reconcile the prophecy of total destruction in Ezekiel 35:7–9 with any evidence that Edomites or their descendants continued to exist? 4. Does Ezekiel 35 conflict with other scriptures that suggest different fates or timelines for Edom? 5. Why would a just God, as portrayed in Ezekiel 35, enact collective punishment on entire generations of Edom? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Ezekiel 35 reflect on the theme of divine justice and retribution? 2. How does the prophecy against Mount Seir relate to the concept of "you reap what you sow"? 3. Why do you think the Edomites' enmity was referred to as "perpetual hatred"? 4. How does the concept of divine justice presented in this chapter align with other parts of the Bible? 5. How does God's wrath on Edom reflect His protective nature towards His chosen people? 6. In what ways do you see the consequences of enmity manifested in our world today? 7. How might the Edomites' assumption of seizing Israel and Judah's lands reflect a sense of entitlement? Can you see any parallels in today's society? 8. In what ways might we be guilty of rejoicing over the misfortunes of others, even subtly, and what consequences might that have? 9. How does Ezekiel 35 underscore the importance of heeding prophetic warnings? 10. Reflect on a time when you felt God's justice in your own life. What did that experience teach you? 11. How can you apply the lessons from Ezekiel 35 to promote peace and unity in your community? 12. How does this chapter illustrate the danger of harboring and acting on long-standing negative emotions? 13. How does God's promise to hear and see our struggles provide comfort in difficult times? 14. If you were in the position of the Edomites, what would you do differently? 15. How does God's response to the Edomites' actions challenge our understanding of His character? 16. What practical steps can we take to avoid the pitfalls of envy and hatred in our lives? 17. How can we ensure that our words and actions align with God's expectations, as revealed in this chapter? 18. How can the events of Ezekiel 35 guide us in standing up for those who are marginalized or oppressed today? 19. What does this chapter teach us about the relationship between actions and consequences, particularly in a spiritual context? 20. How can we lean on the lessons from Ezekiel 35 to seek and administer justice in our daily lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions