The War Against Edom refers to a series of conflicts between the Israelites and the Edomites, descendants of Esau, throughout biblical history. These conflicts are rooted in the longstanding enmity between the two nations, which can be traced back to the familial discord between Esau and Jacob, the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. The Edomites, who settled in the region south of the Dead Sea, were often in conflict with the Israelites, who descended from Jacob.

Historical Context

The animosity between Israel and Edom is first hinted at in Genesis, where Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a meal (Genesis 25:29-34). This transaction, along with Jacob's later deception to receive Isaac's blessing (Genesis 27), sets the stage for future hostilities. The Edomites are mentioned as a distinct nation during the Exodus, when they refused passage to the Israelites through their territory (Numbers 20:14-21). This refusal is indicative of the strained relations that would continue for centuries.

Key Conflicts

1. During the Reign of Saul and David: The first significant military engagement with Edom recorded in the Bible occurs during the reign of King Saul. Although specific details are sparse, 1 Samuel 14:47 notes that Saul fought against Edom among other neighboring nations. The conflict intensified under King David, who achieved a decisive victory over the Edomites. According to 2 Samuel 8:13-14, David established garrisons in Edom, and the Edomites became subject to Israelite rule: "And he put garrisons in Edom; all the Edomites became subject to David. And the LORD gave David victory wherever he went."

2. During the Reign of Jehoshaphat: The Edomites, along with the Moabites and Ammonites, later formed a coalition against King Jehoshaphat of Judah. This alliance is described in 2 Chronicles 20, where Jehoshaphat seeks the LORD's guidance. The LORD assures him of victory, and the coalition is miraculously defeated without Judah having to fight: "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's" (2 Chronicles 20:15).

3. During the Reign of Amaziah: Another significant conflict occurred during the reign of King Amaziah of Judah. In 2 Kings 14:7, Amaziah is recorded as having defeated ten thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt and capturing the city of Sela, renaming it Joktheel. This victory is seen as a demonstration of Judah's military prowess and God's favor.

4. Prophetic Denunciations: The prophets frequently denounced Edom for its hostility towards Israel. Obadiah, in particular, prophesies against Edom, condemning them for their violence against their brother Jacob and predicting their downfall: "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever" (Obadiah 1:10). Similarly, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel also pronounce judgments against Edom, highlighting the divine retribution that would befall them for their actions against Israel.

Theological Significance

The conflicts between Israel and Edom are emblematic of the broader theme of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's promises. The enmity between the two nations serves as a backdrop for demonstrating God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant people. The victories granted to Israel over Edom are often portrayed as acts of divine intervention, underscoring the belief that God fights on behalf of His chosen people.

The War Against Edom, therefore, is not merely a historical account of military engagements but also a narrative rich with theological implications, reflecting the ongoing struggle between God's people and their adversaries, and the ultimate triumph of divine justice.