Edom

Edom was the nation descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob, and was located southeast of the Dead Sea in the rugged hill country of Seir. Throughout Israel's history the Edomites repeatedly opposed God's people, denying them passage during the Exodus and later allying with invading armies, actions that provoked ongoing conflict and eventual Israelite dominance under David and his successors. These events form the backdrop for multiple prophetic oracles, especially in Obadiah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel, which condemn Edom's pride, treachery, and territorial ambitions while foretelling its downfall. In Scripture Edom therefore functions as a concrete example of divine justice against nations that harbor lasting enmity toward Israel, illustrating broader themes of covenant faithfulness and judgment.