What is the context?
The closing announcement turns Edom’s celebration around. It rejoiced when Israel’s inheritance became desolate; it will now face desolation itself.
The whole earth’s rejoicing stands beside Edom’s loss, while Mount Seir and all Edom are included in the judgment. The chapter ends by repeating that they will know the Lord.
This prepares the contrast with the mountains of Israel in the next chapter. The neighbor that hoped to gain through Israel’s ruin is judged, and the land it coveted will hear a promise of restoration.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Wesley understands the rejoicing earth through the surrounding countries enjoying peace and plenty. Cambridge proposes a closer contrast in which the earth rejoices at Edom’s downfall.
The wording is read differently, but the reversal in verse 15 is plain: Edom’s pleasure in another people’s ruin becomes part of the reason for its own judgment.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.