2 Chronicles 21:10

So to this day Edom has been in rebellion against the hand of Judah. Likewise, Libnah rebelled against his rule at the same time, because Jehoram had forsaken the LORD, the God of his fathers.

Study Bible

So to this day
This phrase indicates the enduring nature of Edom's rebellion. Historically, Edom's resistance to Judah's control began during the reign of Jehoram and persisted for generations. The phrase underscores the long-term consequences of Jehoram's actions and decisions, serving as a reminder of the enduring impact of turning away from God.

Edom
Edom, a nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, often had a contentious relationship with Israel. The Hebrew root for Edom is "אֱדוֹם" (Edom), meaning "red," possibly referring to the red sandstone of its territory or Esau's red complexion. Edom's rebellion signifies a break in the fraternal bond and highlights the spiritual and political ramifications of Jehoram's apostasy.

has been in rebellion
The Hebrew word for rebellion, "פָּשַׁע" (pasha), implies a willful transgression or revolt. This rebellion is not just political but also spiritual, as it reflects the broader theme of disobedience to God's covenant. The persistent rebellion of Edom serves as a metaphor for the consequences of forsaking divine guidance.

against the hand of Judah
The "hand" symbolizes power and authority. Judah, representing the Davidic line, was meant to be a beacon of God's rule on earth. Edom's rebellion against Judah's hand signifies a rejection of this divine order, illustrating the chaos that ensues when God's chosen leaders abandon His ways.

Libnah also rebelled
Libnah, a city within Judah, revolting against Jehoram's rule, indicates internal strife and dissatisfaction. The name Libnah means "whiteness," possibly symbolizing purity or righteousness. Its rebellion suggests that even those within the kingdom recognized the spiritual decline under Jehoram's leadership.

at that time
This phrase situates the events within a specific historical context, emphasizing the immediacy of the consequences of Jehoram's actions. It serves as a reminder that turning away from God can lead to swift and tangible repercussions.

against his rule
Jehoram's rule, marked by idolatry and departure from God's commandments, led to widespread discontent. The Hebrew word for rule, "מֶמְשָׁלָה" (memshalah), denotes dominion or governance. The rebellion against his rule reflects a rejection of his ungodly leadership.

because he had forsaken the LORD
This phrase is the crux of the verse, highlighting the root cause of the turmoil. "Forsaken" in Hebrew is "עָזַב" (azab), meaning to abandon or leave behind. Jehoram's forsaking of the LORD, the covenant God of Israel, led to divine displeasure and the unraveling of his kingdom.

the God of his fathers
This phrase emphasizes the continuity of faith and the importance of adhering to the covenant established with the patriarchs. The God of his fathers refers to the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, underscoring the generational faithfulness expected of Judah's kings. Jehoram's failure to honor this covenant resulted in the fracturing of his kingdom and serves as a cautionary tale for future generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, historically under the control of Judah but now in rebellion.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, ruled by the line of David, experiencing internal and external strife during King Jehoram's reign.

3. Libnah
A city in the Shephelah of Judah, which also rebelled against King Jehoram's rule.

4. Jehoram
The king of Judah who led the nation into idolatry and away from the worship of the LORD.

5. Forsaking the LORD
The central reason for the rebellion, highlighting the spiritual decline under Jehoram's leadership.

Teaching Points

Consequences of Forsaking God
Jehoram's abandonment of the LORD led to political instability and rebellion. This serves as a warning about the dangers of turning away from God.

The Importance of Spiritual Leadership
As king, Jehoram's spiritual decline had national repercussions. Leaders are called to guide others in faithfulness to God.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
Despite human rebellion, God's purposes prevail. Edom's rebellion was part of God's judgment on Judah, demonstrating His control over nations.

The Role of Repentance
The rebellion of Edom and Libnah highlights the need for repentance and returning to God to restore peace and blessing.

Legacy and Influence
Jehoram's actions affected future generations. Our choices can have lasting impacts on those who come after us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rebellion of Edom and Libnah illustrate the consequences of forsaking God, and what can we learn from this for our personal lives?

2. In what ways does Jehoram's leadership contrast with the biblical ideal of a godly leader, and how can we apply these lessons in our own spheres of influence?

3. How does the account of Jehoram and the rebellion of Edom connect with the broader biblical theme of covenant faithfulness and divine justice?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we do not forsake the LORD in our daily lives, and how can we encourage others to remain faithful?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of turning away from God. How did you find your way back, and what role did repentance play in that process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 27
The origin of the Edomites through Esau, providing background on the longstanding tension between Edom and Israel.

1 Kings 11
Solomon's idolatry and the subsequent division of the kingdom, setting a precedent for the consequences of forsaking God.

2 Kings 8
A parallel account of Jehoram's reign, offering additional details on his actions and their repercussions.

Deuteronomy 28
The blessings and curses associated with obedience and disobedience to God's covenant, relevant to Judah's situation.

Psalm 89
A reflection on God's covenant with David, contrasting the faithfulness of God with the unfaithfulness of Jehoram.