What is Pau?
Pau is a city mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the Old Testament, as the capital of Edom during the reign of King Hadar (also known as Hadad). The name “Pau” is sometimes interpreted to mean “howling” or “crying out,” reflecting a sense of distress or lamentation. The significance of the name could be linked to the tumultuous history of the region and its inhabitants.
Biblical References
The city of Pau is mentioned in Genesis 36:39:
KJV: “And Baalhanan the son of Achbor died, and Hadar reigned in his stead: and the name of his city was Pau; and his wife’s name was Mehetabel, the daughter of Matred, the daughter of Mezahab.”
NIV: “When Baal-Hanan son of Akbor died, Hadad succeeded him as king. His city was named Pau, and his wife’s name was Mehetabel daughter of Matred, the daughter of Me-Zahab.”
Pau is also mentioned in 1 Chronicles 1:50, which parallels the account in Genesis:
KJV: “And when Baalhanan was dead, Hadad reigned in his stead: and the name of his city was Pai; and his wife’s name was Mehetabel, the daughter of Matred, the daughter of Mezahab.”
NIV: “When Baal-Hanan died, Hadad succeeded him as king. His city was named Pau, and his wife’s name was Mehetabel daughter of Matred, the daughter of Me-Zahab.”
Historical Context
Pau, as mentioned in the Bible, was a city within the territory of Edom, a region southeast of Israel and adjacent to the Arabian desert. Edom was inhabited by the descendants of Esau, Jacob’s twin brother. The Edomites, therefore, had a longstanding relationship with the Israelites, often characterized by conflict and enmity.
The name “howling” associated with Pau might metaphorically reflect the turbulent history of Edom, a land often depicted as barren, harsh, and at odds with Israel. This could symbolize the spiritual and physical desolation that often comes upon nations that oppose God’s chosen people.
The Edomites
The Edomites were descendants of Esau, the elder twin brother of Jacob (Genesis 25:23-26). Esau was also known as Edom, which means “red,” a reference to the red stew for which he sold his birthright (Genesis 25:29-34). The relationship between Israel (descendants of Jacob) and Edom was fraught with tension, as reflected in various biblical narratives.
Edom was located in a mountainous region south of the Dead Sea. The Edomites were known for their wisdom and their strongholds, such as the rock city of Sela (likely Petra). However, they were also known for their hostility towards Israel, particularly during the Exodus when they refused passage to the Israelites (Numbers 20:14-21).
The prophets frequently pronounced judgment on Edom for their pride, violence against their brother Israel, and their participation in Israel’s downfall (Obadiah, Isaiah 34:5-8, Jeremiah 49:7-22). Eventually, Edom was conquered and assimilated into other nations, fulfilling the prophetic judgments.
Hagar
Hagar, though not directly connected to Pau or Edom, plays a crucial role in the broader narrative of the descendants of Abraham. Hagar was an Egyptian servant of Sarah, Abraham’s wife, who bore Abraham’s first son, Ishmael (Genesis 16). The descendants of Ishmael are traditionally associated with Arab peoples.
Hagar’s story is one of suffering and God’s mercy. After fleeing from Sarah’s harsh treatment, Hagar encountered the angel of the Lord, who promised her that her offspring would be too numerous to count. Ishmael’s descendants, like the Edomites, would become a nation distinct from Israel but often in conflict with them.
Theological Significance
The city of Pau and the Edomites are part of the broader biblical narrative illustrating the consequences of living in opposition to God’s covenant people. The Edomites, despite their wisdom and strongholds, faced God’s judgment for their pride and enmity towards Israel.
The “howling” associated with Pau can be seen as a symbol of the despair that comes from rejecting God’s covenant and His people. This theme of judgment and restoration is consistent throughout the Bible, pointing ultimately to the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ.
Connection to Jesus Christ
While the city of Pau and the Edomites highlight the themes of judgment and enmity, the New Testament reveals the fulfillment of God’s promise to bring salvation not just to Israel but to all nations through Jesus Christ. Jesus, a descendant of Abraham through Isaac, embodies the fulfillment of the covenant promises, offering reconciliation and peace even to those who were once far off (Ephesians 2:13-17).
Relevance for Today
The story of Pau and the Edomites serves as a reminder of the consequences of living in opposition to God’s will and His people. It also highlights God’s sovereignty in history and His faithfulness to His promises. For today’s Christian, the story encourages us to align ourselves with God’s purposes, trust in His promises, and seek reconciliation and peace, as modeled by Christ.
How Does This Show God Is Loving?
God’s dealings with Edom, like all of His judgments, were rooted in His justice and righteousness. Yet, God’s ultimate purpose is always to bring about redemption and restoration. The New Testament reveals God’s love through Jesus Christ, who came to reconcile all people to God, breaking down the barriers of hostility and offering peace and reconciliation to all who believe in Him.