What was Lubims?

The Lubims were an ancient African people associated with the region of Libya in North Africa, most likely a reference to the Libyans in the biblical world. The Hebrew term לוּבִ֖ים (Lûbîm) is generally understood to refer to the Libyan tribes west of Egypt, particularly those dwelling near or in the region known in antiquity as Put or Phut, often associated with modern-day Libya. Their name is derived from the root “lub”, related to the Egyptian Libu or the Greek Libyes, pointing to inhabitants of Libya.

Biblical References

The Lubims are mentioned in 2 Chronicles 12:3 as part of the vast army assembled by Shishak, king of Egypt, when he invaded Judah during the reign of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon. The passage reads:

“With twelve hundred chariots and sixty thousand horsemen and the innumerable troops of Libyans (Lubims), Sukkites and Cushites that came with him from Egypt” (2 Chronicles 12:3, NIV).

They are also referenced in Nahum 3:9, as supporters of No Amon (Thebes):

“Cush and Egypt were her boundless strength; Put and Libya (Lubim) were among her allies.”

Further mention can be seen in Daniel 11:43, where Libyans (Lubim) are again associated with North African nations allied to a powerful king.

Cross-References

• Genesis 10:13 – Mizraim (Egypt) is said to be the father of the Ludim, Anamites, Lehabites, Naphtuhites, etc. Some scholars connect Lehabim or Ludim with the Lubims, although these may refer to distinct but related groups.

• Nahum 3:9 – Shows political alliance and military support involving the Lubims.

• Daniel 11:43 – Prophetic mention of Libya being involved in the conquests of a northern king.

• Jeremiah 46:9 – While not naming the Lubims directly, it includes Cush and Put, often seen as associated or neighboring nations.

Historical Context

The Lubims were known to be skilled warriors and horsemen, often recruited or conscripted as part of Egypt’s military expeditions. During the reign of Rehoboam, the united monarchy had already split, and Rehoboam was ruling over Judah. Because of Judah‘s disobedience to the Lord, Shishak, king of Egypt, invaded with a multinational force, which included the Lubims. This was seen as divine judgment for Judah’s unfaithfulness.

The inclusion of the Lubims among Shishak’s troops illustrates their integration into Egyptian campaigns and their role as mercenary or allied forces. Their presence also highlights the far-reaching influence of Egypt and the interconnectedness of African and Middle Eastern powers during the biblical era.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

The mention of the Lubims in Scripture is more than a historical footnote; it is a reminder of God‘s sovereignty over nations. Even large and distant armies such as those involving the Lubims were tools in the hand of God to carry out His purposes — in this case, discipline His covenant people for disobedience.

It serves as a sober warning that no worldly alliance or military strength can replace obedience to God. Judah, though once led by a wise and prosperous Solomon, quickly fell into sin under Rehoboam. This led to vulnerability and judgment, including foreign invasion.

Furthermore, the participation of foreign nations like the Lubims in biblical narratives underscores the universal scope of God’s dealings with mankind. Even non-Israelite nations were woven into God‘s redemptive history, whether as instruments of judgment or as future recipients of grace (see Isaiah 19:19-25).

How the Lubims Point to Jesus and the Gospel

Though the Lubims were part of an invading force used by God to discipline Judah, their inclusion in the biblical narrative foreshadows the gospel’s reach to all nations. The judgment of God upon His people through Gentile nations would eventually be reversed in the gospel, where Gentiles are no longer instruments of wrath, but recipients of grace.

In Christ, the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile is broken down (Ephesians 2:14). People from every tribe and nation, including places like Libya (Acts 2:10 mentions “visitors from Rome…both Jews and converts”), are gathered into the one body of Christ.

The presence of African nations in both judgment and grace in Scripture reminds us that no people group is outside of God’s sovereign plan. The gospel brings redemption not only to Israel but to the ends of the earth, fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham that “all peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3).

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations

God uses whom He wills — even foreign armies like those of the Lubims — to accomplish His purposes, whether for judgment or restoration.

2. Judgment and Mercy

Just as God judged Judah for their rebellion using the Lubims among others, He also extends mercy when His people repent (2 Chronicles 12:6-7). God is not arbitrary; His justice is always accompanied by calls for repentance.

3. Global Scope of God’s Plan

The nations, even those once enemies of Israel, are later shown as participants in the kingdom of God (Isaiah 2:2, Revelation 5:9). This includes regions like Libya and the descendants of the Lubims.

4. Warnings Against Complacency

The Lubims serve as a historical marker of what happens when God‘s people become complacent, relying on human strength rather than divine guidance.

Reflection Questions

1. How does the story of the Lubims and their role in Shishak’s invasion challenge your view of God’s control over global events?

2. What can we learn from Rehoboam’s failure to lead Judah in faithfulness to the Lord?

3. In what ways are we tempted to trust in “armies” or worldly strength instead of God’s promises?

4. How does the inclusion of nations like the Lubims in Scripture shape your understanding of the Great Commission?

5. Are there areas in your life where God may be using uncomfortable circumstances as a wake-up call to return to Him?

Summary: The Lubims were a North African people allied with Egypt, used by God as part of His judgment against Judah during Rehoboam’s reign. Their presence in Scripture reminds us of God’s global sovereignty, the consequences of disobedience, and the future hope of redemption for all nations in Christ.