What was Sukkiims?

The Sukkiims (Hebrew: סֻכִּיִּים, Sukkîyîm) were a people group mentioned briefly in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Chronicles 12:3. They are described as one of the allies in Pharaoh Shishak’s invasion of Judah during the reign of King Rehoboam, Solomon’s son. While the Bible offers limited information about the Sukkiims, their inclusion in the Egyptian army suggests they were a significant tribal or ethnic group from North or Northeast Africa, possibly dwelling near or within Egypt‘s sphere of influence.

The name Sukkiims is likely derived from a root meaning “booths” or “tents,” indicating a nomadic or semi-nomadic people who lived in temporary shelters, similar to Bedouin tribes. Some scholars believe the Sukkiims may have inhabited areas south of Egypt, possibly Nubia or regions near Ethiopia (Cush).

Biblical References

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

• This is the only direct mention of the Sukkiims in Scripture.

Cross-References

• 1 Kings 14:25-26 – Parallel account of Pharaoh Shishak’s invasion.

• Isaiah 18:1-2 – Mentions Cushites and people beyond the rivers of Ethiopia, reflecting the broader region involved.

• Genesis 10:6-7 – Cush is listed as a son of Ham, suggesting an African connection which could include the Sukkiims.

What Happened in the Bible?

In the fifth year of King Rehoboam‘s reign, because of Judah’s unfaithfulness to the Lord, God allowed Pharaoh Shishak of Egypt to invade Jerusalem. The Sukkiims, along with the Lubims (Libyans) and Ethiopians (Cushites), formed part of Shishak’s massive coalition. This vast and diverse army came from Egypt and likely represented either subject peoples, mercenaries, or allied tribes enlisted to enhance the power of Egypt’s military campaign.

This invasion was a divine judgment. The prophet Shemaiah confronted Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah, informing them that this military incursion was due to their abandonment of the Lord. They humbled themselves, and the Lord spared them from total destruction, but they became vassals to Egypt for a time, and the treasures of Solomon’s temple and palace were plundered.

The Sukkiims played a role in God‘s larger plan to humble Judah. Though not central figures, they were instruments in a historical moment when God demonstrated His justice and sovereignty over even pagan nations and kings.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Even the obscure Sukkiims are part of the Bible’s grand narrative demonstrating God’s control over all nations. They remind Christians that God can use anyone—even those outside the covenant community—to accomplish His purposes. The participation of foreign nations in disciplining God’s people is a sobering reminder of the consequences of spiritual unfaithfulness.

For modern believers, the brief appearance of the Sukkiims is a call to humility. God’s people are not immune from correction when they stray from His commands. The instruments He uses may be unexpected, but His purposes are always just, and His discipline is aimed at restoration.

How Their Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

While the Sukkiims themselves are not directly linked to messianic prophecy, their inclusion in the narrative sets the stage for understanding the broader sweep of redemptive history. God’s judgment of His people for their sin points forward to the ultimate judgment that sin demands. However, rather than allowing all people to suffer under wrath, God provided a Redeemer—Jesus Christ.

Jesus absorbed the punishment for our unfaithfulness so that those who humble themselves and turn to Him might be spared and restored, just as Rehoboam and Judah were partially spared when they humbled themselves. The foreign nations in Scripture, like the Sukkiims, remind us that the gospel is for all nations. Christ’s kingdom will one day include people from every tribe, tongue, and nation—even obscure peoples forgotten by history.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations

The inclusion of the Sukkiims in Shishak’s campaign demonstrates that no people group is outside of God’s control. He uses nations, both known and obscure, to fulfill His will.

2. Divine Judgment and Mercy

Judah’s sin led to judgment, but their repentance led to mercy. This pattern is repeated throughout Scripture and fulfilled in the gospel.

3. Universal Scope of God’s Plan

Even foreign and pagan groups like the Sukkiims are part of the biblical story. This foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles in the new covenant through Jesus Christ.

4. Humility Before God

The defeat and subjugation of Judah under Pharaoh’s army, including the Sukkiims, is a vivid picture of what happens when God’s people become proud. It teaches the importance of continual dependence on the Lord.

Reflection Questions

1. Why do you think God includes lesser-known groups like the Sukkiims in the biblical narrative?

2. How does the invasion of Judah by foreign armies reflect God‘s justice and mercy?

3. In what ways do the events in 2 Chronicles 12 challenge modern Christians to evaluate their faithfulness to God?

4. How can recognizing God’s control over all nations strengthen our trust in Him today?

5. What does the humbling of Rehoboam teach us about repentance and God‘s willingness to forgive?

Even the most obscure names in the Bible point us to deeper truths about God’s holiness, justice, and redeeming love. The Sukkiims, though mentioned only once, serve as part of the tapestry of God‘s dealings with His people and the nations of the world.