For three transgressions of Edom, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof.
Edom
1. A threatening. Here a certain number is put for an uncertain. It may be treated jointly. Three and foyer make seven. Thus may be indicated the multitude and magnitude of the wickedness, and the greatness and heaviness of the punishment. It may be treated severally, and in this sense; going on still, even to a fourth time, in provoking Me, and adding obstinacy and impenitency to their side, I will bear them no longer.
2. The equity. These Idumaeans were stubbornly wicked, and heaped up sin upon sin.
3. Execution of judgment. “I win send a fire.” Fire is put in Scripture for a most grievous plague, by sword, or famine, or pestilence. Now for the application.
Edom is a special type of the kingdom of Anti-Christ. Antichristian Esau is Edom. The similitude between them we will consider--
1. In their persons;
2. in their sins; and
3. in their judgments. (T. Taylor, D. D.)