Ezekiel 35:12 meaning

Throughout history, the Edomites exhibited a long-standing animosity towards Israel, often celebrating their suffering and disaster. This verse highlights the extent of Edom's blasphemy against the mountains of Israel, where they gleefully proclaimed that these lands had become desolate. The context reveals that such contempt did not go unnoticed by God; rather, it provoked divine retribution. The Edomites sought to claim Israel's land as their own in its time of weakness, thinking that their moment of triumph had arrived.

In the larger narrative of Ezekiel, God's reaction to Edom's derision serves as a stark reminder of His fidelity towards His people. The judgment foretold against Edom emphasizes that those who revel in the downfall of God's chosen will themselves face desolation. As stated, “you shall know that I am the Lord,” indicating that through their judgment, even the arrogant enemies of Israel will recognize Yahweh's sovereignty and power.