What was Edomites?

The Edomites were a nation descending from Esau, the twin brother of Jacob (Israel), and are frequently mentioned throughout the Old Testament as a people living to the southeast of Israel. The name “Edom” (אֱדוֹם, ʾĕdôm) means “red,” likely referring both to the red stew Esau traded his birthright for (Genesis 25:30) and possibly to the reddish terrain of their land, also called Seir (Genesis 32:3). In Greek, they are referred to as Idoumaioi (Ἰδουμαῖοι).

Genesis 36 provides a detailed genealogy of Esau and the early formation of Edomite leadership and settlement. Edom was both a person (Esau, who is called Edom) and a nation that came from his descendants. Their history is marked by tension and conflict with Israel, even though they were family by blood.

Biblical References and Cross References

• Genesis 25:30 – Esau is given the name Edom after selling his birthright for red stew.

• Genesis 36 – Genealogy and the formation of Edom’s tribal chiefs and kings.

• Deuteronomy 2:4-5 – God instructs Israel not to provoke Edom, acknowledging their ancestral connection.

• Numbers 20:14-21 – Edom refuses to let Israel pass through their land.

• 2 Samuel 8:13-14; 1 Kings 11:14-25 – Ongoing conflicts and subjugation.

• Obadiah 1 – Prophetic judgment against Edom for their violence against Judah.

• Malachi 1:2-4 – God expresses His sovereign choice in loving Jacob but hating Esau.

• Romans 9:10-13 – Paul refers to the election of Jacob over Esau to illustrate God‘s sovereign grace.

What Happened in the Bible?

The Edomites trace their origin to Esau, the elder twin son of Isaac and Rebekah. While Esau initially settled in the hill country of Seir (Genesis 32:3), his descendants eventually formed a confederation of tribal leaders known as “chiefs” or “dukes” (Genesis 36:15-43). Later, Edom developed into a kingdom before Israel even had a king (Genesis 36:31).

Throughout the biblical narrative, the Edomites played the role of a consistent adversary to Israel. Despite their shared lineage, they refused to help Israel during their wilderness journey (Numbers 20), participated in violent opposition (Psalm 137:7), and rejoiced over Jerusalem’s destruction (Obadiah 1:10-14). God’s judgment against Edom is repeatedly foretold, and they serve as a symbol of pride and rebellion against God‘s people.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

The story of the Edomites serves as a sobering lesson on the consequences of despising spiritual inheritance and harboring ongoing enmity. Esau’s choice to prioritize immediate gratification over God’s covenant blessings set a trajectory for his descendants—a path that led to opposition against God’s chosen people.

Christians today are reminded not to treat lightly the spiritual blessings available in Christ. The Edomites’ example also challenges believers to examine whether they are harboring bitterness or rivalry against others, especially within the family of faith.

At the same time, Edom’s story is a testimony to God’s justice. Though Edom was a nation with strong ties to Israel, their consistent rebellion and pride led to divine judgment, showing that heritage alone does not guarantee God’s favor—obedience and faith do.

How Their Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The contrast between Jacob (Israel) and Esau (Edom) is used in Scripture to highlight God‘s sovereign election. As seen in Romans 9, Paul draws on this contrast to underscore that salvation comes not by human effort or descent but through God’s mercy and purpose. Jesus, the promised Seed of Abraham through Jacob’s line, brings the blessing of redemption not based on works or heritage, but grace.

Furthermore, Jesus breaks down dividing walls between people groups (Ephesians 2:14). Though the Edomites were enemies, the gospel of Christ calls people from every tribe and nation—including descendants of Edom—to reconciliation with God and one another.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Sovereignty and Election

Edom’s origin from Esau, who was not chosen as the covenant bearer, illustrates God’s sovereign purposes in salvation history (Malachi 1; Romans 9).

2. Family and Nationhood

The Edomites are a case study of how family rifts can become national rivalries when unresolved. Scripture invites healing and unity through God’s work.

3. Justice and Judgment

The repeated prophecies against Edom (Isaiah 34, Jeremiah 49, Obadiah) emphasize that God holds nations accountable for pride and violence.

4. The Danger of Bitterness

Hebrews 12:16-17 uses Esau as a warning not to fall short of God’s grace, becoming bitter and forfeiting blessings.

Reflection Questions

1. How does Esau’s decision to sell his birthright speak to the choices we make today regarding spiritual matters?

2. Are there areas in my life where I’m resisting God‘s plan due to pride or bitterness, as Edom did?

3. How does the story of Edom challenge my view of God’s justice and sovereignty?

4. In what ways am I tempted to prioritize worldly gain over spiritual inheritance?

5. How can I pursue reconciliation in my relationships, especially with those who are “close” like Israel and Edom?

The Edomites stand as a stark reminder in Scripture that proximity to God‘s covenant does not equal participation in it. Their story challenges believers to cling to God‘s promises through faith in Christ, to resist pride, and to walk in love even toward those with whom we have conflict.