or לֻבִּי; (Daniel 11:43), partrial from a name probably derived from an unused root meaning to thirst, i.e. a dry region; apparently; a Libyan or inhabitant of interior Africa (only in plural); Lubim(-s), Libyans.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Lûwbîy**, represented by `{{H3864}}`, identifies a **Libyan or inhabitant of interior Africa**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a name suggesting a "dry region," the term is always used in its plural form, **Lubim** or **Libyans**, to denote a people group often associated with military might and regional conflicts, particularly alongside nations like Egypt and Ethiopia.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3864}}` consistently appears in contexts of military power and international alliances. The **Lubim** are listed as part of a massive army out of Egypt that was "without number," alongside the Sukkiims and the Ethiopians [[2 Chronicles 12:3]]. They are again described as part of a "huge host" with the Ethiopians, an army that the LORD `{{H3068}}` delivered into Judah's hand because of reliance `{{H8172}}` on Him [[2 Chronicles 16:8]]. The term is also used to identify them as military "helpers" `{{H5833}}`, along with Put `{{H6316}}` [[Nahum 3:9]]. In a prophetic context, the **Libyans** are among those who will follow "at his steps" `{{H4703}}`, indicating their subjugation under a powerful ruler [[Daniel 11:43]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role of the Lubim:
* `{{H3569}}` **Kûwshîy** (a Cushite, or descendant of Cush): The **Lubim** are frequently mentioned alongside the **Ethiopians**, indicating a close geographical or political relationship. They appear together as part of a massive army [[2 Chronicles 12:3]], as a "huge host" [[2 Chronicles 16:8]], and as subjugated peoples [[Daniel 11:43]].
* `{{H4714}}` **Mitsrayim** (Egypt): The nation of **Egypt** is a recurring power center in the context of the **Lubim**. They are part of an army that came "out of Egypt" [[2 Chronicles 12:3]] and are allied with Egypt's strength [[Nahum 3:9]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength): This word describes a force of men or resources. It is used to characterize the combined forces of the Ethiopians and **Lubim** as a "huge **host**" [[2 Chronicles 16:8]], emphasizing their military power.
* `{{H5833}}` **ʻezrâh** (aid; help): This term defines the role of the **Lubim** in relation to another nation. In Nahum's prophecy, they are referred to as "thy **helpers**" [[Nahum 3:9]], signifying a military alliance.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3864}}` is found in its role within the larger narrative of God's power over nations.
* **Sovereignty of God over Nations:** The presence of the **Lubim** underscores God's ultimate authority. He delivers their "huge host" `{{H2428}}` into the hands of those who rely `{{H8172}}` on Him, demonstrating that no earthly army is beyond His control [[2 Chronicles 16:8]].
* **Human Strength vs. Divine Power:** The **Lubim** represent formidable human military strength, being part of an army "without number" `{{H4557}}` [[2 Chronicles 12:3]]. However, their power is shown to be insufficient when confronted by the will of the LORD `{{H3068}}`, as seen when Asa's reliance on God brings victory [[2 Chronicles 16:8]].
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The inclusion of the **Libyans** in prophecy highlights that their destiny, like that of all nations, is subject to God's foreknowledge. Their eventual subjugation is foretold as part of a larger divine plan where a ruler has power over the treasures of Egypt [[Daniel 11:43]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3864}}` **Lûwbîy** identifies a specific people from interior Africa, but its biblical significance extends beyond a simple label. The **Lubim** or **Libyans** consistently represent formidable foreign military power, often allied with Egypt and Ethiopia. Their appearances in scripture serve as a powerful illustration that the strength of any "huge host" [[2 Chronicles 16:8]] is insignificant when measured against the sovereignty of the LORD. Whether as part of an invading army, as helpers in a doomed alliance, or as subjects in a prophecy, their story reinforces the theme that ultimate victory and security are found not in human might but in reliance on God.
TRV