1. Name / Role
Edomites
2. Category
Nations / Peoples
3. Time Period / Biblical Context
The Edomites appear throughout the Old Testament, from the patriarchal narratives to the prophetic books. They are regularly mentioned during Israel’s wilderness journey, the monarchy period, and in prophetic oracles of judgement. Their conflict with Israel spans centuries.
4. Origin / Background
The Edomites were descendants of Esau, the twin brother of Jacob (Genesis 36:1). The nation of Edom settled in the rugged hill country of Seir, located southeast of Judah, in what is today southern Jordan. Though they shared a common ancestry with Israel, Edom’s history is marked by rivalry, betrayal, and hostility towards the Israelites.
5. Primary Role / Function
Edom functioned as a near-relative nation, military adversary, and symbol of prideful opposition. Despite being kin to Israel, the Edomites repeatedly opposed or betrayed them, particularly during times of crisis such as the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem. Their actions became the subject of severe prophetic rebuke.
6. Key Characteristics / Traits
- Geographically mountainous, with strongholds like Bozrah and Petra
- Known for pride, wisdom traditions, and strategic location on trade routes
- Frequently hostile to Israel despite shared lineage
- Practised idolatry and engaged in territorial aggression
- Symbolically linked with arrogance and betrayal
7. Symbolism / Spiritual Significance
Edom symbolises prideful resistance, fraternal hostility, and judgement against covenant betrayal. As a brother nation that refused aid and exploited Israel’s downfall, Edom represents the grief of broken kinship and the severity of divine justice. Spiritually, Edom serves as a warning against gloating over others’ suffering and against relying on human wisdom and defences.
8. Notable Figures / Examples
- Esau – Patriarch of Edom, who sold his birthright and lived by the sword (Genesis 25–36)
- Kings of Edom – Listed before Israel had kings (Genesis 36:31–43)
- Edomite raiders – Attacked Judah during King Jehoram’s reign (2 Chronicles 21:8–10)
- Herod the Great – A descendant of Edomites (Idumaeans), ruling Judea at the time of Jesus’ birth (Matthew 2)
9. Related Bible References
- Genesis 25:19–34; 36 – Origins of Edom through Esau
- Numbers 20:14–21 – Edom refuses Israel passage during the Exodus
- Deuteronomy 2:4–6 – Israel commanded not to provoke Edom
- Psalm 137:7 – Edom’s rejoicing over Jerusalem’s fall
- Obadiah 1 – Entire prophetic book condemning Edom’s pride and betrayal
- Isaiah 34:5–17; Jeremiah 49:7–22; Ezekiel 25:12–14; Amos 1:11–12 – Oracles of judgement against Edom
10. Summary / Reflection
The Edomites were more than just neighbours—they were Israel’s estranged family, whose hostility wounded all the more because of their shared ancestry. Their prideful stance, especially during Israel’s suffering, provoked God’s severe rebuke through multiple prophets. Yet within this tragic rivalry is a sobering reflection on how pride and bitterness can harden hearts, even between brothers. Edom reminds us that kinship does not guarantee unity, and that God sees and judges betrayal—especially when it targets His covenant people. Their downfall is a timeless warning against arrogance and the sin of rejoicing over others’ calamity.