Judges 11:17

*Then Israel sent messengers to the king of Edom, saying, “Please let us pass through your land,” but the king of Edom would not listen. And they also sent to the king of Moab, but he would not consent. So Israel remained at Kadesh.* (v.17) Here, we see Israel trying to navigate through the territory of Edom on their journey after they departed from Egypt, respectfully requesting safe passage. The king of Edom’s refusal forced Israel to remain in the region temporarily, which also highlights Israel’s willingness to avoid unnecessary conflict. Their next approach was to the king of Moab, but Moab responded similarly with rejection, leaving Israel no option but to wait on God’s direction rather than pushing through by force. This refusal from both Edom and Moab can point us toward a deeper principle about trusting God when we meet resistance, reflecting a humility that Jesus would later exemplify in His interactions with others (Luke 9:51-56, NASB-95).

The geographical location of Kadesh, an oasis region south of the Promised Land, holds special significance in Israel’s history. This is where the Israelites had stayed previously, and from which the twelve spies once departed to survey the land (Numbers 13, NASB-95). Located near the southern border of Canaan, Kadesh served as both a place of prolonged wandering and a starting point for critical events in the nation’s journey. Edom, located southeast of the Dead Sea in mountainous terrain, was historically connected to Esau (the brother of Jacob) who settled there around 1900 BC, placing Edom’s lineage in the broader context of the descendants of Abraham. Moab, situated east of the Dead Sea, can be traced back to Lot’s lineage (Genesis 19:37, NASB-95), and by the time of the Judges (roughly 1380–1050 BC), it was an established kingdom.

In refusing Israel's request, both Edom and Moab added to Israel’s trials on their way to secure the inheritance God promised. Despite the hostility, Israel did not retaliate violently, demonstrating a principle of restraint and dependence on divine guidance rather than relying on force. This concept of waiting faithfully can find its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, who also faced active rejection yet responded with patient purpose and obedience to the Father (1 Peter 2:23, NASB-95).

Israel’s respectful requests to Edom and Moab, followed by peaceful withdrawal to Kadesh, illustrate how barriers and refusals can become avenues for deeper trust in God.