2 Kings 3:9

“So the king of Israel went, and the king of Judah, etc.] The way of the wilderness of Edom, proposed by the latter: and the king of Edom; whom they took with them in their way, who was not properly a king, but a viceroy or deputy, (see <112247>1 Kings 22:47) and they fetched a compass of seven days journey; they went round the Dead Sea, and through the wilderness of Edom, and so to the borders of Moab: and there was no water for the host, and for the cattle that followed them; neither for the soldiers in the army, nor the cattle that drew the carriages, being in a wilderness.”

“Seven days’ journey - The distance of the route probably followed is not much more than 100 miles. But the difficulties of the way are great; and the army might not be able to move along it at a faster rate than about 15 miles a day. No water - The kings had probably expected to find sufficient water for both men and baggage animals in the Wady-el-Ahsy, which divides Edom from Moab, and which has a stream that is now regarded as perennial. But it was dried up - quite a possible occurrence with any of the streams of this region. return to 'Top of Page'”

“King of Edom - That is, the vice - roy under Jehosaphat, Kg1 22:47, here called king: because that word is sometimes used for any prince or chief ruler. Seven days - Because they made a great army, which could move but slowly; and they fetched a greater compass than was usual, for some advantage which they expected by it. No water - A frequent want in those parts; and now, it seems, increased by the extraordinary heat and dryness of the season. 4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:11”

“Edom: Kg1 22:27 no water: Exo 15:22, Exo 17:1; Num 20:2, Num 20:4, Num 21:5, Num 33:14 that followed them: Heb. at their feet, Exo 11:8 \*marg. Jdg 4:10 4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:10”