Ezekiel 35:7

I will make Mount Seir a desolate waste and will cut off from it those who come and go.

Study Bible

I will make Mount Seir a desolate waste
Mount Seir is historically the region inhabited by the Edomites, descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. This prophecy against Mount Seir symbolizes God's judgment against Edom for its longstanding enmity with Israel. The desolation signifies complete destruction, reflecting the divine retribution for Edom's actions. The imagery of desolation is consistent with other biblical prophecies where God judges nations for their sins (Isaiah 34:9-11). The desolation of Mount Seir serves as a warning to all nations about the consequences of opposing God's chosen people.

and will cut off from it those who come and go
This phrase indicates the cessation of all activity and life in the region, emphasizing the totality of the judgment. The cutting off of those who "come and go" suggests the end of trade, travel, and communication, which were vital for the survival and prosperity of ancient cities. This reflects the broader biblical theme of divine judgment leading to isolation and ruin, as seen in the fall of other cities like Babylon (Jeremiah 51:37). The phrase also underscores the finality of God's judgment, leaving no room for recovery or restoration, which is a common motif in prophetic literature.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mount Seir
A mountainous region inhabited by the Edomites, descendants of Esau. It symbolizes the nation of Edom, which had a long-standing enmity with Israel.

2. Edomites
The people descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. Historically, they were often in conflict with the Israelites.

3. Prophet Ezekiel
A major prophet in the Old Testament who conveyed God's messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

4. Desolation
The state of being deserted and empty, which God declares will befall Mount Seir as a judgment for its hostility towards Israel.

5. Judgment
The divine retribution that God promises to execute on Mount Seir for its actions against His people.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is sovereign and just in His judgments. The desolation of Mount Seir serves as a reminder that God will hold nations accountable for their actions against His people.

The Consequences of Enmity
Harboring enmity and acting against God's chosen people leads to severe consequences. This serves as a warning against harboring hatred and acting unjustly.

The Certainty of God's Promises
God's declarations, whether of blessing or judgment, are certain and will come to pass. Believers can trust in the fulfillment of God's word.

The Importance of Reconciliation
The historical enmity between Edom and Israel highlights the need for reconciliation and peace. Believers are called to seek peace and reconciliation in their relationships.

Reflecting on Our Own Actions
Just as Edom faced judgment for its actions, individuals should reflect on their own lives and ensure they are living in accordance with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What historical events led to the enmity between Edom and Israel, and how does this context help us understand God's judgment on Mount Seir?

2. How does the prophecy against Mount Seir in Ezekiel 35:7 relate to the broader theme of divine justice found throughout the Bible?

3. In what ways can the judgment of Mount Seir serve as a warning for nations and individuals today?

4. How can believers apply the lessons of reconciliation and peace from the history of Edom and Israel to their own lives and communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced or witnessed enmity. How can the teachings from Ezekiel 35:7 guide you in seeking reconciliation and peace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 36
Provides the genealogy of Esau and the establishment of the Edomites in Mount Seir, setting the historical context for their enmity with Israel.

Obadiah 1
A prophecy against Edom, echoing the themes of judgment and desolation due to their pride and violence against Israel.

Psalm 137
Reflects the pain and longing of the Israelites during the Babylonian exile, a period when Edom rejoiced over Jerusalem's downfall.

Isaiah 34
Describes God's judgment against nations, including Edom, emphasizing the theme of divine retribution.