MPV Commentary

Edom and Libnah Revolt.

The Edomites had been under Judah's control since David's time (1Ki 22:47; 2Ki 3:9). However, after Jehoshaphat's reign, a new ruler in Edom saw an opportunity to gain independence by rebelling against Judah. This attempt was initially thwarted by Jehoram, who had inherited his father's military power. But the Edomites eventually succeeded in breaking free from Judah's rule (Ge 27:40). Libnah, located on Judah's southern border near Edom, also joined the rebellion.

A message came to Jehoram from Elijah the prophet, but it is likely that this was actually a mistake and should have been attributed to Elisha, who had taken over as prophet after Elijah's translation (2Ki 2:11-12).

Jehoram had led Judah and Jerusalem into idolatrous practices, similar to those of Ahab's house (De 13:6-14). As a result, he was denounced by God for his wickedness. This judgment was soon fulfilled as Jehoram faced a series of devastating calamities. In addition to the Edomite rebellion, two neighboring tribes attacked Judah from the south and west (2Ch 17:11). The country was ravaged, the capital city was taken, the palace was plundered, and many of his children were killed. Only one son survived. Jehoram suffered from a painful and incurable illness for two years before dying in agony. His death went unmarked by his people, who had grown accustomed to withholding funeral honors from kings with poor reputations, a practice that had originated among the Egyptians.