Bible Dictionary
Edomites
The Edomites were the descendants of Esau who inhabited Edom, also called Mount Seir and Idumea. They were closely related to the Israelites but were often hostile toward them.
Definition
The Edomites were the descendants of Esau who inhabited Edom, also called Mount Seir and Idumea. They were related by descent to the Israelites through Isaac and Esau’s family.
Biblical Usage
The Edomites often opposed Israel, refused passage during the Exodus, fought Israelite rulers, and participated in the hostility surrounding Jerusalem’s fall. Their conduct toward Israel became a subject of prophetic denunciation.
Historical Background
They occupied a mountainous region east of the Arabah and were associated with places such as Bozrah and Sela. The supplied material describes Edom as a rugged land and the Edomites as a people closely related to Israel in blood and language.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
[Edom, Idumaea Or Idumea]