Edom

Edom, a hilly country to the south of Palestine, extending for 100 miles from the Red Sea to the Gulf of Akabar. The mountains are bare, and consist of chalk and porphyry, but in parts the country is tilled and produces wine. In Biblical history it was inhabited by the descendants of Esau, and the enmity of the sons of Esau to those of Jacob was constantly breaking out with varying result. Later, as Idumea, the country gave birth to the Herod dynasty. Maan, the ancient Maon, is a halting-place for the Mecca pilgrims. Mount Hor is 4,320 feet high.