The King of Libnah is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua. Libnah was a Canaanite city located in the Shephelah, the lowland region of ancient Judah. The city and its king are noted in the biblical narrative as part of the coalition of Canaanite kings who opposed the Israelites during their campaign to take possession of the Promised Land.

Biblical References:

1. Joshua 10:29-30 : "Then Joshua and all Israel with him moved on from Makkedah to Libnah and fought against Libnah. And the LORD also delivered that city and its king into the hand of Israel, and Joshua put all the people to the sword, leaving no survivors. And he did to the king of Libnah as he had done to the king of Jericho."

In this passage, the King of Libnah is defeated by Joshua and the Israelites as part of their southern campaign. The text emphasizes the divine assistance provided to Israel, as the LORD delivered the city and its king into their hands. The fate of the King of Libnah mirrors that of other Canaanite kings, such as the king of Jericho, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the Israelite conquest.

2. Joshua 12:15 : "the king of Libnah, one; the king of Adullam, one;"

This verse is part of a list enumerating the defeated kings and their cities, underscoring the extent of Israel's victories. The mention of the King of Libnah in this list serves to document the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

3. 2 Kings 8:22 : "So Edom has been in rebellion against Judah to this day. Libnah also revolted at that time."

Although this reference does not directly mention the King of Libnah, it provides historical context for the city itself. During the reign of King Jehoram of Judah, Libnah revolted against Judah's rule. This indicates that Libnah, once a Canaanite city, had become part of the territory of Judah, reflecting the changes in political control over the region following the Israelite conquest.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The account of the King of Libnah and the city's defeat is significant within the broader narrative of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. It illustrates the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to the patriarchs, as the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, systematically conquer and settle the land. The repeated emphasis on divine intervention in these military victories serves to reinforce the theological theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

The mention of Libnah's later revolt against Judah in 2 Kings suggests a complex history of the city, which, despite its initial defeat, continued to play a role in the region's political dynamics. This reflects the ongoing challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining control over the land and the persistent presence of Canaanite influence.

In summary, the King of Libnah represents one of the many Canaanite rulers who opposed the Israelites during their divinely ordained conquest. The biblical narrative underscores the theological themes of divine judgment against the Canaanites and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.