Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Leha'bim, also referred to as Lehabim, is a biblical term found in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. The name is associated with the descendants of Mizraim, who was one of the sons of Ham, the son of Noah. The Leha'bim are considered to be one of the ancient peoples that emerged from the lineage of Ham, contributing to the ethnological and geographical landscape of the ancient Near East. Biblical References: The primary reference to Leha'bim is found in the Book of Genesis, which provides a genealogical account of the descendants of Noah's sons after the Flood. Genesis 10:13-14 states: "Mizraim was the father of the Ludites, Anamites, Lehabites, Naphtuhites, Pathrusites, Casluhites (from whom the Philistines came), and the Caphtorites." A parallel account is also found in 1 Chronicles 1:11-12 , which reiterates the genealogy: "Mizraim was the father of the Ludites, Anamites, Lehabites, Naphtuhites, Pathrusites, Casluhites (from whom the Philistines descended), and the Caphtorites." Historical and Geographical Context: The Leha'bim are traditionally identified with the Libyans, an ancient people who inhabited the region west of Egypt. This identification is supported by the etymological similarity between "Lehabim" and "Libya," as well as historical records that suggest a connection between the descendants of Mizraim and the peoples of North Africa. In the ancient world, the Libyans were known for their interactions with Egypt, often serving as both allies and adversaries. The biblical narrative places the Leha'bim within the broader context of the Table of Nations, which outlines the dispersion of peoples and the establishment of various ethnic groups following the events at the Tower of Babel. Cultural and Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Leha'bim in the genealogical records underscores the fulfillment of God's command to Noah and his sons to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth" (Genesis 9:1). The Leha'bim, as part of the descendants of Ham, contribute to the diversity of nations and cultures that emerged in the post-Flood world. The genealogies in Genesis serve not only as historical records but also as a means of tracing the lineage of various peoples, highlighting the interconnectedness of humanity. The inclusion of the Leha'bim in these records reflects the comprehensive nature of God's creation and the unfolding of His divine plan through the generations. Conclusion: While the biblical text provides limited information about the Leha'bim, their mention in the genealogical records of Genesis and 1 Chronicles situates them within the broader narrative of the ancient world. As descendants of Mizraim, the Leha'bim are part of the complex tapestry of nations that arose from Noah's lineage, contributing to the historical and cultural milieu of the biblical narrative. Concordance Leha'bim (1 Occurrence)Genesis 10:13 Thesaurus Leha'bim (1 Occurrence)Leha'bim. Le'habim, Leha'bim. Lehabites . Multi-Version Concordance Leha'bim (1 Occurrence). Genesis 10:13 And Mizraim begot Ludim ... /l/leha'bim.htm - 6k Le'habim (1 Occurrence) Lehabites (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |