Jeremiah 25:21
Edom, and Moab, and the children of Ammon,
Original Language Analysis
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
אֱד֥וֹם
Edom
H123
אֱד֥וֹם
Edom
Strong's:
H123
Word #:
2 of 7
edom, the elder twin-brother of jacob; hence the region (idumaea) occupied by him
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
מוֹאָ֖ב
and Moab
H4124
מוֹאָ֖ב
and Moab
Strong's:
H4124
Word #:
4 of 7
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Cross References
Psalms 137:7Remember, O LORD, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem; who said, Rase it, rase it, even to the foundation thereof.Jeremiah 9:26Egypt, and Judah, and Edom, and the children of Ammon, and Moab, and all that are in the utmost corners, that dwell in the wilderness: for all these nations are uncircumcised, and all the house of Israel are uncircumcised in the heart.
Historical Context
Archaeological and historical records confirm these nations' destruction. Edom was conquered by Babylon, then pushed south by Nabatean Arabs, eventually disappearing as a distinct people. The term 'Idumea' in the NT refers to Edomite refugees south of Judea, including Herod's family. Moab and Ammon also fell to Babylon and later were absorbed by Arab peoples. Their territories east of the Jordan became predominantly gentile, fulfilling the prophecies. Petra, the magnificent rock city, stands as monument to Edom's former glory and current desolation—no Edomites remain.
Questions for Reflection
- How do these judgments on Israel's relatives demonstrate that spiritual privilege (knowing the true God) brings accountability when rejected?
- What does God's varied treatment—Edom's permanent desolation versus Moab and Ammon's eventual restoration—teach about degrees of judgment?
- In what ways might Christians today be guilty of Edom's sin—watching God's people suffer with indifference or even satisfaction?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Edom, and Moab, and the children of Ammon. These three nations were Israel's closest relatives and perpetual antagonists. Edom descended from Esau (Jacob's brother), while Moab and Ammon descended from Lot (Abraham's nephew) through incest (Genesis 19:30-38). Despite kinship, these nations refused Israel passage during the Exodus (Numbers 20:14-21), frequently oppressed Israel during the judges period, and celebrated Judah's destruction. The prophets pronounced devastating judgments: Edom would be perpetually desolate (Obadiah, Malachi 1:2-5), Moab would be destroyed (Isaiah 15-16, Jeremiah 48), and Ammon would be given to desert tribes (Ezekiel 25:1-7).
These judgments reveal God's perfect knowledge and just recompense. Edom's pride and violence against brother Jacob (Obadiah 10-14), Moab's seduction of Israel into Baal worship (Numbers 25), and Ammon's brutality (Amos 1:13) all warranted judgment. Yet the prophecies also show mercy—Moab and Ammon would be restored 'in the latter days' (Jeremiah 48:47, 49:6), while Edom's judgment appears final. This demonstrates both the severity and kindness of God, judging evil while showing unexpected mercy.