The ancient hatred of Edom for Israel began with their ancestors, Esau and Jacob (see Genesis 25:19–34; 27:1–46; Numbers 20:14–21; 24:18; 2 Samuel 8:13–14; 1 Kings 11:14). Because of this hatred, the Edomites took advantage of Babylon’s destruction of Jerusalem. They attacked the Israelites when they were weak and helpless. They tried to destroy the descendants of Jacob and take the lands of Israel and Judah.
The Edomites enjoyed killing the Israelites. But the violence they brought on others would return to them. Their own people would die by the sword. God would punish their lasting hatred. Their land would become empty and ruined forever.
This prophecy came true in the 400s BC. During that time, a group of Arab tribes forced the Edomites out of their land.