Petra/Edom
Edom was the rugged territory southeast of the Dead Sea inhabited by the descendants of Esau, who became known as the Edomites and maintained a distinct kingdom from the time of the Israelite monarchy onward. The Edomites repeatedly opposed Israel, refusing passage during the Exodus and later allying with invaders, which prompted strong prophetic denunciations in books such as Obadiah, Isaiah, and Jeremiah that foretold the nationโs downfall and desolation. The rock-cut city of Petra, later developed by the Nabataeans, is popularly identified with Edomite strongholds like Sela and served as a strategic capital whose cliffs provided natural defenses. These accounts illustrate Scriptureโs broader theme of divine justice exercised against nations that harbor lasting hostility toward Godโs people.
Details
- Region
- Canaan
- Modern Location
- Petra, southern Jordan
Journey Paths
Key Passages
Esau Settles in Seir
Genesis 36:6-8
Esau's descendants establish themselves in Edom's rugged terrain - the brother who sold his birthright founds a nation that becomes Israel's persistent rival.
6nd Esau took his wives, and his sons, and his daughters, and all the persons of his house, and his cattle, and all his beasts, and all his substance, which he had got in the land of Canaan; and went into the country from the face of his brother Jacob.
Prophecy Against Edom
Obadiah 1:1-4
Obadiah pronounces judgment on Edom for violence against brother Jacob - warning that those who exploit God's people in their distress will face divine reckoning.
1he vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning Edom; We have heard a rumour from the LORD, and an ambassador is sent among the heathen, Arise ye, and let us rise up against her in battle.