The command to pass through Edom is a significant event in the journey of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings, as recorded in the Old Testament. This event is primarily documented in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Deuteronomy, where the Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, sought passage through the land of Edom on their way to the Promised Land.

Biblical Context

The Israelites, after their exodus from Egypt and subsequent wanderings in the wilderness, approached the territory of Edom. Edom, located to the southeast of the Dead Sea, was inhabited by the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob (Israel). The relationship between the Israelites and the Edomites was complex, marked by both kinship and tension.

Request for Passage

In Numbers 20:14-21, Moses sent messengers from Kadesh to the king of Edom with a request for peaceful passage through their land. The message emphasized the kinship between the Israelites and the Edomites, referring to them as "your brother Israel." Moses assured the king that the Israelites would not pass through fields or vineyards, nor drink water from wells, but would stay on the King's Highway, a major trade route, and pay for any water consumed.

The Berean Standard Bible records the initial request: "Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through any field or vineyard or drink water from any well. We will stay on the King's Highway; we will not turn to the right or to the left until we have passed through your territory" (Numbers 20:17).

Edom's Refusal

Despite the respectful request, the king of Edom refused passage and came out against Israel with a large and powerful army. The Edomites' refusal forced the Israelites to take a longer route around Edom, as they were commanded by God not to engage in conflict with their kin. This is further elaborated in Deuteronomy 2:4-6, where God instructed the Israelites: "You are about to pass through the territory of your brothers the descendants of Esau, who live in Seir. They will be afraid of you, so be very careful. Do not provoke them, for I will not give you any of their land, not even a foot of it, because I have given Esau the hill country of Seir as his own" (Deuteronomy 2:4-5).

Theological Significance

The command to pass through Edom and the subsequent refusal highlight several theological themes. Firstly, it underscores the sovereignty of God in guiding the Israelites and His respect for the territorial rights He had granted to the descendants of Esau. Secondly, it reflects the importance of peaceful relations and the avoidance of unnecessary conflict, even when faced with opposition. Lastly, it serves as a reminder of the fulfillment of God's promises, as the Israelites continued their journey towards the land promised to their forefathers.

Historical and Cultural Context

Edom's strategic location along the King's Highway made it a significant player in regional trade and politics. The refusal to allow Israel passage can be seen as a protective measure to maintain control over their territory and resources. The Edomites' response also reflects the historical animosities and rivalries that often existed between neighboring nations in the ancient Near East.

In summary, the command to pass through Edom and the subsequent events are a testament to the complex interplay of kinship, divine guidance, and geopolitical realities faced by the Israelites during their journey to the Promised Land.