Reading for March 10th

Read Ezekiel 35.1-15 In 35.1=36.15: Edom and Israel. Ezekiel delievers contrasting oracles concerning judgment against Edom (Isa 34; Jer 49.7-22) and restoration of Israel. The oracles presuppose Edom's actions against Jerusalem at the time of the Babylonian assult (Ob 11-14; Ps 137.7-9). In 35.1-15: The prophecy concerning Edom begins with an initial oracle in vv. 3-4, followed by "proof sayings" in vv. 5-9, 10-13 that establish the grounds for punishment. In verses 1-2aMount Seir: The moutnain range extending south from the Dead Sea and east of the Arabah that was Edom's homeland (Gen 36.8; Num 24.18; compare Gen 33.16). In verses 2b-4: The initial oracle calls for Edom's destruction. In verses 5-9: The first "proof saying" indicates Edom played a role in Israel's destruction. Ancient enemy may alluude to the fued between Esau and Jacob or the living history of conflict between Israel and Edom (Num 20.14-21). In verse 10-13: These two nations and these two countries: In additin to the conflict between Esau and Jacob, there is a tradition of God's self-revelation from Seir (Deut 33.2;Judg 5.4). In verses 14-15: Edom disappered following the sixth century when it was overrun by nomads who later became known as the Nabateans. Comments or Questions..