Introduction:
Mount Seir is a mountainous region historically associated with the Edomites, descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. The biblical narrative often portrays Edom as a nation in conflict with Israel, and Mount Seir becomes emblematic of this enmity. The prophecy against Mount Seir is primarily found in the book of Ezekiel, where it serves as a divine pronouncement of judgment against Edom for its perpetual hostility towards Israel.

Biblical Context:
The prophecy against Mount Seir is located in Ezekiel 35. This chapter is part of a larger section of Ezekiel that includes prophecies against various nations. The focus on Mount Seir highlights the specific grievances God holds against Edom, reflecting the broader theme of divine justice and retribution.

Ezekiel 35:1-15 :
The word of the LORD came to Ezekiel, instructing him to set his face against Mount Seir and prophesy against it. The prophecy begins with a declaration of God's opposition: "Behold, I am against you, Mount Seir, and I will stretch out My hand against you and make you a desolate waste" (Ezekiel 35:3). This opening sets the tone for the entire chapter, emphasizing the severity of the judgment to come.

Reasons for Judgment:
The prophecy outlines several reasons for the impending judgment on Mount Seir:

1. Perpetual Enmity: The Edomites harbored an "ancient hostility" against the Israelites, which manifested in acts of violence and betrayal. This enmity is highlighted in Ezekiel 35:5: "Because you harbored an ancient hostility and delivered the Israelites over to the sword at the time of their calamity, at the final stage of their punishment" .

2. Desire for Possession: Edom's covetous desire to possess the lands of Israel and Judah is condemned. The prophecy accuses Edom of saying, "These two nations and countries will be ours, and we will possess them" (Ezekiel 35:10). This ambition is seen as an affront to God's sovereignty over the land.

3. Blasphemy and Rejoicing over Israel's Misfortune: Edom is also accused of blasphemy and taking pleasure in Israel's suffering. The prophecy states, "You boasted against Me with your mouth and multiplied your words against Me. I heard it Myself!" (Ezekiel 35:13). This arrogance and malice further justify the divine judgment.

Consequences of Judgment:
The prophecy details the desolation that will befall Mount Seir as a result of God's judgment:

· Desolation and Ruin: God promises to make Mount Seir a "desolate waste," with its cities laid to ruin (Ezekiel 35:4). This imagery underscores the totality of the destruction that will come upon Edom.

· Retribution: The principle of retributive justice is central to the prophecy. As Edom acted against Israel, so will God act against Edom: "As you rejoiced when the inheritance of the house of Israel became desolate, so will I deal with you" (Ezekiel 35:15).

· Recognition of God's Sovereignty: The ultimate purpose of the judgment is to demonstrate God's sovereignty and justice. The repeated refrain, "Then you will know that I am the LORD," (Ezekiel 35:9) emphasizes that the judgment serves as a revelation of God's power and authority.

Theological Significance:
The prophecy against Mount Seir reflects broader themes in the biblical narrative, including the justice of God, the consequences of enmity against His chosen people, and the fulfillment of divine promises. It serves as a reminder of the moral and spiritual accountability of nations and individuals before God. The prophecy also underscores the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and the futility of opposing His will.