The Edomites, descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, have a significant place in biblical history, particularly in their interactions with the Kingdom of Judah. The revolt of the Edomites during the reign of Joram, King of Judah, marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between these two nations.

Historical Context

The Edomites inhabited the region south of the Dead Sea, a territory known for its rugged terrain and strategic trade routes. Throughout biblical history, Edom maintained a complex relationship with Israel and Judah, often characterized by conflict and subjugation. The Edomites were subject to the rule of King David and later King Solomon, as recorded in 2 Samuel 8:14 and 1 Kings 9:26-28, respectively. However, their subjugation was not permanent, and they sought opportunities to assert their independence.

Revolt Against Joram

The revolt of the Edomites occurred during the reign of Joram (also known as Jehoram), the son of Jehoshaphat, who ruled over Judah. Joram's reign is noted for its departure from the religious reforms of his father, as he followed the idolatrous practices of the house of Ahab, into which he had married (2 Kings 8:18). This spiritual decline coincided with political instability, providing an opportune moment for Edom to rebel.

The biblical account of the Edomite revolt is found in 2 Kings 8:20-22 : "In the days of Joram, Edom rebelled against the hand of Judah and appointed their own king. So Joram crossed over to Zair with all his chariots. Then at night he set out to attack the Edomites who had surrounded him and the commanders of his chariots, but his army fled to their tents. So to this day Edom has been in rebellion against the hand of Judah."

This passage highlights the decisive nature of the Edomite revolt. Despite Joram's military campaign to suppress the rebellion, the Edomites successfully established their independence, appointing their own king and maintaining their autonomy from Judah.

Significance in Biblical Narrative

The revolt of the Edomites is significant for several reasons. It underscores the weakening of Judah's political power during Joram's reign, a period marked by internal strife and external threats. The loss of Edom as a vassal state not only diminished Judah's territorial control but also its economic influence, as Edom controlled vital trade routes.

Furthermore, the Edomite revolt is emblematic of the broader theme of divine retribution and the consequences of turning away from God's commandments. Joram's departure from the ways of his father Jehoshaphat and his alignment with the idolatrous practices of Ahab's house are seen as contributing factors to the instability and challenges faced during his reign.

Prophetic and Eschatological Implications

The relationship between Edom and Israel is further explored in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. Prophets such as Obadiah and Isaiah prophesied against Edom, foretelling its eventual downfall due to its pride and hostility towards Israel (Obadiah 1:1-4, Isaiah 34:5-6). These prophecies reflect the enduring tension between the two nations and serve as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice.

In the eschatological context, the fate of Edom is often viewed as a symbol of God's ultimate victory over His enemies and the restoration of His people. The Edomite revolt during Joram's reign, therefore, is not only a historical event but also a part of the larger biblical narrative of redemption and divine justice.2 Kings 8:20-22
In his days Edom revolted from under the hand of Judah, and made a king over themselves.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 21:8-10
In his days the Edomites revolted from under the dominion of Judah, and made themselves a king.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... into Sibir, and we should have to identify it with that of the Sibir mentioned by
Assur-nazir-pal in his Annals, Colossians 2:1.84, as a king of Karduniash who ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... inhabitants in that case would have been Edomites and Midianites ... one resembled the
children of a king." "And he ... as they were, the chiefs' pride revolted at the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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