The Kings of Edom are a significant part of the biblical narrative, particularly in the Old Testament, where they are mentioned in the context of the history and genealogy of the Edomite people. Edom, located to the southeast of Israel, is often associated with Esau, the brother of Jacob, who is considered the progenitor of the Edomites. The history of Edom and its kings is intertwined with the account of Israel, often marked by conflict and rivalry.

Genealogical Background

The Edomites trace their lineage back to Esau, the elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, and the twin brother of Jacob. Esau is described as a skillful hunter and a man of the field, in contrast to Jacob, who is depicted as a quiet man dwelling in tents (Genesis 25:27). The tension between Esau and Jacob, which began in the womb (Genesis 25:22-23), set the stage for the future enmity between their descendants, the Israelites and the Edomites.

List of Kings

The Bible provides a list of the kings who reigned in Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites. This list is found in Genesis 36:31-39 and 1 Chronicles 1:43-51. The Berean Standard Bible records:

"These are the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites: Bela son of Beor reigned in Edom; the name of his city was Dinhabah. When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place. When Jobab died, Husham from the land of the Temanites reigned in his place. When Husham died, Hadad son of Bedad, who defeated Midian in the field of Moab, reigned in his place; the name of his city was Avith. When Hadad died, Samlah from Masrekah reigned in his place. When Samlah died, Shaul from Rehoboth on the Euphrates reigned in his place. When Shaul died, Baal-hanan son of Achbor reigned in his place. When Baal-hanan son of Achbor died, Hadad reigned in his place; the name of his city was Pau. His wife’s name was Mehetabel daughter of Matred, the daughter of Me-zahab." (Genesis 36:31-39)

Historical Context

The list of Edomite kings is notable for its mention of rulers before the establishment of the monarchy in Israel, highlighting the early development of political structures in Edom. The Edomite kingship appears to have been established and recognized long before Saul became the first king of Israel. This suggests a level of organization and governance in Edom that was significant in the ancient Near Eastern context.

Edom's Relationship with Israel

Throughout the biblical narrative, Edom's relationship with Israel is characterized by both kinship and conflict. Despite their shared ancestry, the two nations often found themselves at odds. The Israelites were instructed not to abhor an Edomite, "for he is your brother" (Deuteronomy 23:7), yet the history between the two peoples is marked by hostility and warfare.

During the Exodus, the Edomites refused passage to the Israelites through their land (Numbers 20:14-21), an act that set the tone for future hostilities. The prophets frequently spoke against Edom for its actions against Israel, with Obadiah and Ezekiel delivering particularly strong oracles of judgment against Edom for its violence and betrayal (Obadiah 1:10-14; Ezekiel 25:12-14).

Cultural and Religious Influence

The Edomites, like many of their neighbors, were polytheistic, worshiping a variety of deities. The biblical narrative does not provide extensive details about their religious practices, but it is clear that their religious and cultural identity was distinct from that of Israel. The Edomites' worship practices and their interactions with other nations in the region would have influenced their political and social structures.

Legacy

The legacy of the Edomite kings is preserved in the biblical record as a testament to the complex relationships between the nations of the ancient Near East. The Edomites, though often in conflict with Israel, played a significant role in the region's history. Their account, as recorded in the Bible, serves as a reminder of the enduring themes of kinship, conflict, and the sovereignty of God over the nations.