Ezekiel 35:5

Because you harbored an ancient hatred and delivered the Israelites over to the sword in the time of their disaster at the final stage of their punishment,

Study Bible

Because you harbored an ancient hatred
This phrase refers to the longstanding enmity between the Edomites and the Israelites. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, and this animosity can be traced back to the sibling rivalry between Esau and Jacob (Genesis 25:23-34). The "ancient hatred" signifies a deep-seated hostility that persisted over generations. This enmity is also mentioned in other scriptures, such as Amos 1:11, where Edom's perpetual anger is condemned. The historical context shows that Edom often took advantage of Israel's vulnerabilities, exacerbating the conflict.

and delivered the Israelites over to the sword
This phrase highlights Edom's betrayal and active participation in the violence against Israel. During times of Israel's distress, particularly during the Babylonian invasion, Edom sided with the enemies of Israel, contributing to their downfall (Obadiah 1:10-14). This act of delivering Israel to the sword is seen as a grave sin, as it involved not only passive indifference but active aggression against their kin. The sword symbolizes warfare and destruction, emphasizing the severity of Edom's actions.

in the time of their disaster
The "time of their disaster" refers to the period of calamity for Israel, particularly the Babylonian conquest and the subsequent exile in 586 BC. This was a time of great suffering and loss for the Israelites, as Jerusalem was destroyed, and many were taken captive. The disaster was a fulfillment of prophetic warnings given by prophets like Jeremiah and Ezekiel, who had forewarned of the consequences of Israel's disobedience to God.

at the final stage of their punishment
This phrase indicates that the disaster was part of God's judgment upon Israel for their sins, as prophesied by Ezekiel and other prophets. The "final stage" suggests the culmination of a series of divine judgments that had been progressively unfolding. It underscores the idea that while God used other nations as instruments of His judgment, those nations, like Edom, were still held accountable for their actions. This reflects the biblical principle that God is sovereign over history, using it to accomplish His purposes while maintaining justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, known for its longstanding enmity with Israel. In Ezekiel 35, Edom is condemned for its perpetual hostility towards Israel.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They faced numerous adversities, including attacks from neighboring nations like Edom.

3. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who ministered during the Babylonian exile. He delivered messages of judgment and hope to Israel and its surrounding nations.

4. Ancient Hostility
Refers to the deep-seated enmity between Edom and Israel, which dates back to the conflict between Esau and Jacob.

5. Time of Disaster
This refers to periods of calamity for Israel, such as the Babylonian conquest, when Edom took advantage of Israel's vulnerability.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Perpetual Hatred
Edom's ancient hostility towards Israel serves as a warning about the destructive nature of harboring long-term animosity. As Christians, we are called to forgive and seek reconciliation, following the example of Christ.

God's Justice and Sovereignty
The judgment pronounced on Edom reminds us that God is just and sovereign over all nations. He holds individuals and nations accountable for their actions, especially when they exploit the vulnerable.

The Importance of Brotherhood
The conflict between Edom and Israel, rooted in the familial strife of Esau and Jacob, underscores the importance of maintaining peace and unity within families and communities.

Responding to Others' Misfortunes
Edom's actions during Israel's disaster highlight the moral imperative to support rather than exploit those in distress. Christians are called to be compassionate and to aid those in need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the ancient hostility between Edom and Israel reflect the broader theme of sibling rivalry and reconciliation in the Bible?

2. In what ways can harboring long-term animosity affect our personal relationships and spiritual well-being?

3. How does God's judgment on Edom demonstrate His concern for justice and His protection of His people?

4. What lessons can we learn from Edom's failure to support Israel during their time of disaster, and how can we apply these lessons in our communities today?

5. How do the prophecies against Edom in Ezekiel and other books of the Bible encourage us to trust in God's ultimate plan for justice and restoration?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
The prophecy about the struggle between Esau and Jacob, which sets the stage for the ongoing conflict between Edom and Israel.

Obadiah 1:10-14
A parallel prophecy against Edom, highlighting their violence against Israel during times of distress.

Psalm 137:7
A lament that recalls Edom's role in the destruction of Jerusalem, urging God to remember Edom's actions.

Amos 1:11
Another prophetic condemnation of Edom for their relentless pursuit of violence against their brother nation, Israel.