Edom

Edom, a nation descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob, holds a significant place in biblical history. The Edomites settled in the region south of the Dead Sea, an area characterized by its rugged terrain and strategic trade routes. The relationship between Israel and Edom was complex, marked by both kinship and conflict.

The Bible records several instances of tension between the two nations. In the time of Moses, Edom refused Israel passage through their land (Numbers 20:14-21). Despite this, God commanded the Israelites not to despise the Edomites, as they were their brothers (Deuteronomy 23:7).

The Edomites were subjugated by King David, who established garrisons in Edom, making them his servants (2 Samuel 8:13-14). This subjugation continued into the reign of Solomon, who maintained control over Edom and its valuable trade routes (1 Kings 9:26-28).

Libnah Revolt

The revolt of Edom and Libnah against Judah occurred during the reign of King Jehoram, the son of Jehoshaphat. Jehoram's reign is noted for his departure from the ways of his father, as he led Judah into idolatry and wickedness, influenced by his marriage to Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel (2 Kings 8:16-18).

The Bible records that during Jehoram's reign, Edom revolted against Judah's rule and set up their own king (2 Kings 8:20-22). This revolt marked the end of Judah's control over Edom, which had been established since the time of David. The Berean Standard Bible states: "In his days Edom revolted from under the hand of Judah, and made a king over themselves" (2 Kings 8:20).

Simultaneously, Libnah, a city in the Shephelah region of Judah, also revolted. The reasons for Libnah's revolt are not explicitly detailed in the biblical text, but it is suggested that Jehoram's abandonment of the covenant with God and his idolatrous practices led to internal dissent and rebellion (2 Chronicles 21:10).

The revolts of Edom and Libnah were significant as they reflected the weakening of Judah's political and military power during Jehoram's reign. These events were seen as divine retribution for Jehoram's unfaithfulness to God, as the prophet Elijah had warned him of impending judgment (2 Chronicles 21:12-15).

The Edom and Libnah revolts serve as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the importance of righteous leadership in maintaining national stability and divine favor.