Topical Encyclopedia The historical and prophetic narrative concerning Edom's revolt against Israel is a significant theme in the Old Testament, reflecting the tumultuous relationship between the descendants of Esau (Edom) and Jacob (Israel). This entry explores the biblical prophecies and historical accounts related to Edom's rebellion, as well as the theological implications of these events.Historical Context Edom, located to the southeast of Israel, was inhabited by the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. The relationship between Israel and Edom was marked by conflict and tension, stemming from the sibling rivalry between Esau and Jacob. Despite their shared ancestry, the nations often found themselves at odds. During the reign of King David, Edom was subjugated and became a vassal state to Israel (2 Samuel 8:13-14). This subjugation continued under Solomon, but after his death, Edom sought to regain its independence. Edom's Revolt The revolt of Edom is recorded during the reign of King Jehoram of Judah. The biblical account in 2 Kings 8:20-22 states: "In his days Edom revolted from the hand of Judah and set up a king of their own. So Jehoram crossed over to Zair with all his chariots. Then at night he and his chariot commanders attacked the Edomites who had surrounded him, but his army fled home. So to this day Edom has been in rebellion against Judah’s hand." This revolt marked a significant turning point, as Edom successfully broke free from Judah's control, establishing its own monarchy and asserting its independence. Prophetic Pronouncements The prophets of the Old Testament frequently addressed the fate of Edom, often in the context of divine judgment. The book of Obadiah is entirely dedicated to the prophecy against Edom, highlighting its pride and violence against Israel. Obadiah 1:3-4 declares: "The pride of your heart has deceived you, O dwellers in the clefts of the rocks, whose habitation is high, who say in your heart, ‘Who can bring me down to the ground?’ Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, even from there I will bring you down, declares the LORD." Isaiah also prophesied against Edom, foretelling its desolation. Isaiah 34:5-6 states: "For My sword is drunk with blood in the heavens; behold, it descends in judgment upon Edom, the people I have devoted to destruction. The sword of the LORD is bathed in blood; it is covered with fat, with the blood of lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams. For the LORD has a sacrifice in Bozrah, a great slaughter in the land of Edom." Theological Implications The prophecies concerning Edom's revolt and subsequent judgment underscore the themes of divine justice and the sovereignty of God over the nations. Edom's pride and hostility towards Israel are met with divine retribution, serving as a reminder of the consequences of enmity against God's chosen people. Furthermore, the prophetic literature emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate triumph of His purposes. Despite temporary setbacks, such as Edom's revolt, the overarching narrative of Scripture assures the restoration and vindication of Israel in accordance with God's covenantal promises. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 8:20-22In his days Edom revolted from under the hand of Judah, and made a king over themselves. Nave's Topical Index Library Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) A Traveler's Note-Book The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Resources Are Israel and the church the same thing? Does God still have a plan for Israel? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is spiritual Israel? | GotQuestions.org Did God divorce Israel? | GotQuestions.org Israel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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