"The Horims also dwelt in Seir beforetime; but the children of Esau succeeded them, when they had destroyed them from before them, and dwelt in their stead; as Israel did unto the land of his possession, which the Lord gave unto them."
Context:Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and is part of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah. The book contains the final sermons of Moses to the Israelites, preparing them for entering the Promised Land after wandering in the wilderness for forty years.
Historical Background:The verse refers to the Horims, an ancient people group who lived in Seir. Seir was a region located in the mountainous area of Edom, southeast of the Dead Sea. The Edomites, descendants of Esau (Jacob’s twin brother), eventually conquered the Horims and settled in their land.
Comparison to Israel’s Conquest:The verse draws a parallel between the conquest of the land by the Edomites (descendants of Esau) and the conquest of the land by the Israelites. It highlights how the Edomites succeeded the Horims by conquering their land, just as Israel succeeded the inhabitants of the land that God had given to them.
God’s Promised Land:The verse acknowledges that the land of possession, which the Lord gave to Israel, was the land they conquered from other nations. In this context, it refers to the land of Canaan, the Promised Land that God had promised to give to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
God’s Faithfulness:The passage reveals God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. He granted the Edomites (Esau’s descendants) victory over the Horims and allowed them to possess their land. Similarly, God enabled the Israelites to conquer and possess the land of Canaan, fulfilling His covenant with Abraham.
Lessons for the Israelites:By mentioning the Edomites’ conquest, Moses reminded the Israelites of God’s power and faithfulness. It served as an encouragement for them to trust in God as they prepared to enter the Promised Land and face their own battles.
Overall Message:Deuteronomy 2:12 reinforces the idea that the land of possession was given by the Lord to the Israelites. It highlights the historical events surrounding the Edomites and their conquest, emphasizing God’s sovereignty and fulfillment of His promises.
As you continue studying the Book of Deuteronomy, it’s important to consider the broader context and the significance of God’s instructions and promises to the Israelites.
