Book of 2 Chronicles - Chapter 28 - Verse 17

During biblical times, the Edomites were known as the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. The rivalry between the Edomites and the Israelites, who descended from Jacob, was centuries old and often resulted in conflict. In this verse, it is mentioned how the Edomites once again attacked the tribe of Judah, a region in the Southern Kingdom of Israel. The Edomites not only defeated the people of Judah but also took many of them captive, causing great distress and suffering. This event serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the Israelites against their neighboring enemies and the historical animosity between these two nations. By understanding the context of this verse, readers can appreciate the intricate dynamics and complexities of relationships in ancient biblical times, shedding light on the challenges faced by the people of Judah in maintaining their sovereignty and security.

In the verse "For again the Edomites had come and smitten Judah, and carried away captives," there is a theological interpretation that highlights the recurring theme of conflict and captivity in the history of the Israelites. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, who was Jacob's brother and the patriarch of the Edomites. The ongoing conflict between the Edomites and the Judahites reflects the struggle between the two nations that stemmed from ancient sibling rivalry. The act of carrying away captives not only signifies the physical loss of people but also represents the spiritual bondage that the Israelites experienced when they strayed from God's commandments. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of remaining faithful to God in order to avoid being oppressed and taken captive by our enemies. Through word studies, the significance of terms such as "Edomites," "smitten," and "captives" can be further explored to glean additional insights into the historical context and implications of this verse.