The Edomites, descendants of Esau, play a significant role in the biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the Israelites. The relationship between these two nations is marked by conflict, subjugation, and occasional cooperation. One of the notable aspects of this relationship is the establishment of garrisons by the Israelites in Edomite territory, which is a testament to the fluctuating power dynamics between the two groups.

Historical Context

The Edomites inhabited the region south of the Dead Sea, an area known for its rugged terrain and strategic trade routes. Their proximity to Israel made them both a potential ally and a frequent adversary. The tension between the Edomites and Israelites is rooted in the familial discord between Esau and Jacob, the patriarchs of the two nations.

Biblical References

The Bible records several instances where the Israelites established garrisons in Edomite territory, reflecting periods of Israelite dominance. One of the most significant references is found during the reign of King David. In 2 Samuel 8:14 , it is recorded: "He placed garrisons throughout Edom, and all the Edomites became subject to David. So the LORD gave victory to David wherever he went." This verse highlights David's military prowess and the subjugation of Edom under his rule, which was seen as a fulfillment of divine promise and favor.

The establishment of garrisons served multiple purposes: it ensured control over the region, secured trade routes, and prevented rebellion. These military outposts were a means of exerting political and military influence, ensuring that the Edomites remained under Israelite control.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the subjugation of Edom and the establishment of garrisons can be seen as part of God's broader plan for Israel. The victories granted to David were perceived as divine endorsement of his kingship and a fulfillment of the covenant promises made to the patriarchs. The control over Edom also symbolized the broader theme of God's sovereignty over the nations and His ability to use Israel as an instrument of His will.

Later Developments

The relationship between Israel and Edom continued to evolve after David's reign. The Edomites regained independence during the reign of King Jehoram, as recorded in 2 Kings 8:20-22 : "In the days of Jehoram, Edom rebelled against the hand of Judah and appointed their own king. So Jehoram crossed over to Zair with all his chariots. And the Edomites surrounded him and his chariot commanders, but he rose up and attacked by night. Thus to this day Edom has been in rebellion against the hand of Judah."

This passage illustrates the persistent struggle for autonomy by the Edomites and the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining control over their neighbors. The fluctuating control over Edom serves as a reminder of the complex and often tumultuous relationships between the nations of the ancient Near East.

Conclusion

The establishment of garrisons in Edom by the Israelites is a significant historical and theological event in the biblical narrative. It reflects the broader themes of divine providence, the fulfillment of covenant promises, and the intricate interplay of power among the nations surrounding Israel.2 Samuel 8:14
And he put garrisons in Edom; throughout all Edom put he garrisons, and all they of Edom became David's servants. And the LORD preserved David wherever he went.
Nave's Topical Index

How Solomon Grew Rich, and Fell Desperately in Love with Women and ...
... He was a child of the stock of the Edomites, and of the blood royal; and ... to make
the people forsake Solomon, for it was kept under by many garrisons, and an ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 7 how solomon grew.htm

How the Philistines Made Another Expedition against the Hebrews ...
... the Jews, and taken their weapons away, and had put garrisons into the ... and subdued
the Ammonites, and Moabites, and Philistines, and Edomites, and Amalekites ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 6 how the philistines.htm

Canaan
... the country, burning and spoiling, and securing the passes by means of permanent
garrisons. ... Edomites, rather than Hebrews, were the founders of the future Judah ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter ii canaan.htm

The Israelites
... The Edomites refused them a passage along the high-road of trade which ... Jabesh-gilead
was rescued from the Ammonite king, the Philistine garrisons were driven ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter i the israelites.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... reaching Kadesh-barnea, the Israelites in their wanderings had come into contact
with various Bedawin tribes"Kenites, Jerahmelites, Edomites, and Midianites ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst consumed it, whereas now thou shalt smite
Syria but thrice."* Amaziah, on his side, had routed the Edomites in the ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... An enemy who succeeded in destroying or driving back the garrisons stationed as
outposts on the rim of the plateau, from Kharkhar to Parsua, if he ventured to ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... He placed garrisons in the principal towns"-at Parsindu, Zamru, and at Arakdi in
Lullume, which one of his predecessors had re-named Tukulti-Ashshur-azbat ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

Who were the Edomites? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of Edom in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who/what is Edom (Obadiah 1:1, 8)? | GotQuestions.org

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