Why did Edom refuse passage to the Israelites in Numbers 20?

In the book of Numbers, chapter 20, we encounter a poignant episode in the journey of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. After leaving Egypt, the Israelites were on their way to the Promised Land, and they faced numerous challenges, both external and internal. One of these challenges was their attempt to pass through the territory of Edom, a region inhabited by the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. The refusal of passage by Edom is a significant event, and understanding the reasons behind this refusal requires delving into the historical, familial, and theological context.

The Israelites' request to pass through Edom is recorded in Numbers 20:14-21. Moses, the leader of the Israelites, sent messengers to the king of Edom with a courteous and respectful message:

"Thus says your brother Israel: You know all the hardship that we have met: how our fathers went down to Egypt, and we lived in Egypt a long time. And the Egyptians dealt harshly with us and our fathers. And when we cried to the Lord, he heard our voice and sent an angel and brought us out of Egypt. And here we are in Kadesh, a city on the edge of your territory. Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through field or vineyard, or drink water from a well. We will go along the King's Highway. We will not turn aside to the right hand or to the left until we have passed through your territory." (Numbers 20:14-17, ESV)

Moses appeals to their shared ancestry, referring to Israel as "your brother," highlighting the kinship between the Israelites and the Edomites. This kinship goes back to the patriarchal narratives in Genesis, where Esau and Jacob were the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. Despite their familial ties, the history between Esau and Jacob was fraught with tension and conflict, beginning with Jacob's deception to obtain Esau's birthright and blessing (Genesis 25:29-34, 27:1-40). This historical backdrop sets the stage for understanding the strained relationship between their descendants.

Edom's response to Moses' request was unequivocal:

"But Edom said to him, 'You shall not pass through, lest I come out with the sword against you.' And the people of Israel said to him, 'We will go up by the highway, and if we drink of your water, I and my livestock, then I will pay for it. Let me only pass through on foot, nothing more.' But he said, 'You shall not pass through.' And Edom came out against them with a large army and with a strong force. Thus Edom refused to give Israel passage through his territory, so Israel turned away from him." (Numbers 20:18-21, ESV)

Several factors can be considered to understand why Edom refused passage to the Israelites:

1. Historical Animosity: The relationship between the descendants of Esau (Edomites) and Jacob (Israelites) was complicated by their ancestral history. The animosity that began with the two brothers likely persisted through generations. The Edomites may have harbored resentment and distrust towards the Israelites, remembering the stories of how Jacob had taken Esau's birthright and blessing.

2. Political and Military Concerns: Allowing a large group of people, potentially numbering in the millions, to pass through their territory could be seen as a significant security risk. The Edomites might have feared that the Israelites, despite their assurances, could cause disruption, consume resources, or even pose a military threat. The presence of a large, organized group moving through their land could have been perceived as a potential invasion or occupation.

3. Economic Considerations: The Israelites promised not to take any resources without payment, but the sheer number of people and livestock could have put a strain on Edom's resources. The Edomites might have been concerned about the impact on their fields, vineyards, and water supplies, even with the promise of compensation.

4. Divine Providence and Prophecy: From a theological perspective, the refusal of passage can also be seen as part of God's providential plan for the Israelites. In Deuteronomy 2:4-6, God instructs the Israelites not to engage in conflict with the Edomites because He had given Mount Seir to Esau's descendants as their possession. This implies that the refusal was anticipated and that God had a different path in mind for the Israelites. It also underscores the fulfillment of God's promises and the distinct destinies of the two nations.

The refusal of passage by Edom led the Israelites to take a longer and more arduous route around Edom. This detour was not just a physical challenge but also a test of their faith and obedience. Throughout their journey, the Israelites faced numerous trials that revealed their dependence on God and their need to trust in His guidance and provision.

The refusal of passage by Edom is also echoed in later biblical texts and becomes a point of reflection and prophecy. The prophet Amos, for example, condemns Edom for its persistent hostility towards Israel:

"Thus says the Lord: 'For three transgressions of Edom, and for four, I will not revoke the punishment, because he pursued his brother with the sword and cast off all pity, and his anger tore perpetually, and he kept his wrath forever.'" (Amos 1:11, ESV)

This passage highlights the enduring nature of the conflict and the moral implications of Edom's actions. The refusal of passage was not just a political decision but also a reflection of deeper spiritual and ethical issues.

In Christian literature, the relationship between Esau and Jacob, and by extension, Edom and Israel, is often explored to illustrate themes of reconciliation, forgiveness, and the sovereign purposes of God. For instance, in his "City of God," Augustine reflects on the complex interplay of human actions and divine providence, using biblical narratives to demonstrate how God's purposes are ultimately fulfilled despite human failings and conflicts.

In conclusion, Edom's refusal to allow the Israelites passage through their territory in Numbers 20 can be understood through a multifaceted lens that includes historical animosity, political and military concerns, economic considerations, and divine providence. This event is a significant moment in the Israelites' journey, revealing the complexities of their relationships with neighboring nations and their reliance on God's guidance. It also serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of familial and national conflicts and the importance of seeking reconciliation and understanding in the broader narrative of God's redemptive plan.