Petra (Sela) in the Bible
The rock-cut city of Edom — a symbol of human pride and God's judgment.
Known in the Bible as Sela, Petra was the capital of Edom, carved into rose-red cliffs. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, trusted in their impregnable mountain fortress, but the prophets declared God's judgment against their pride and hostility toward Israel.
Modern Location
Petra, southwestern Jordan
Key Biblical Events
- 1Amaziah captures Sela (2 Kings 14:7)
- 2Obadiah prophesies against Edom's pride
- 3Isaiah pronounces judgment on Edom (Isaiah 34)
Key KJV Scriptures
"The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee, thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, whose habitation is high; that saith in his heart, Who shall bring me down to the ground?"
"He slew of Edom in the valley of salt ten thousand, and took Selah by war, and called the name of it Joktheel unto this day."
"Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength?"
Spiritual Significance
Petra stands as a monument to the futility of human self-reliance. Its grandeur crumbled exactly as the prophets foretold, reminding believers that no earthly fortress can stand against God's sovereign will.
Why Petra (Sela) Matters
Petra (Sela) holds a unique place in Scripture because it stands in the distant lands that remind us God's purposes extend to every corner of the earth. With 3 major biblical events connected to this site — and key figures like Esau, Amaziah, Obadiah linked to its story — Petra (Sela) is far more than a point on an ancient map. It is a place where God acted decisively in human history.
Rooted in the Old Testament narrative, Petra (Sela) is referenced in 3 key scriptures that reveal God's faithfulness across generations. Petra stands as a monument to the futility of human self-reliance. Its grandeur crumbled exactly as the prophets foretold, reminding believers that no earthly fortress can stand against God's sovereign will.
For today's believer, studying Petra (Sela) is more than a geography lesson — it is an invitation to see God's faithfulness written across real places and real people. Every mountain, city, and river in Scripture reminds us that God works within history, not apart from it. When you read about Petra (Sela), you are standing on the same spiritual ground where Esau encountered the living God.
Related Bible Characters
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Petra mentioned in the Bible?
Yes, under the name Sela (meaning 'rock' in Hebrew). It was the capital of Edom and is referenced in 2 Kings 14:7, Obadiah, and Isaiah.
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Related Bible Locations
Dead Sea
The salt sea near Sodom and Gomorrah — the lowest point on earth.
Beersheba
The southern boundary of Israel — where Abraham and Isaac made covenants.
Wilderness of Sinai
The desert where Israel wandered for 40 years between Egypt and the Promised Land.
Beersheba
The southern boundary of Israel — 'from Dan to Beersheba' — where patriarchs made covenants.
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