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.
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.